Preparing for the Pilgrimage
Preparing for the Pilgrimage
Preparing Physically
The first thing that you will need to do is determine your goals for the pilgrimage. Do you plan to walk all 3 days, 1 day, or The Bambino Camino which is the last 2 1/2 miles on Sunday? This will determine your training schedule.
Goal: Walking 1 day, 2 days, or all 3 days Begin training and increase your distance until you can walk 5 miles several days per week. Strengthening your core and legs will also help tremendously. Before the event, you should take a few long walks in the sand to get accustomed to beach walking and determine the best foot-ware for you. This is very important, good walking shoes with support will provide stability and prevent blisters. Remember, this walking pilgrimage is not a race. It is a slow and steady embracing of God’s creation and providence. Goal: The Last Two Miles- “The Bambino Camino” Begin walking short distances until you can walk up to 2 miles. Train with good walking shoes.
Preparing Spiritually
The goal of the Baby Steps Camino Pilgrimage, is “To increase the spiritual growth of pilgrims during Advent”. There will opportunities each day on the pilgrimage for Mass, Adoration and Confessions. Before the event, begin to reflect on the ways you would like to grow spiritually. Use this pilgrimage as a path to lift up others in prayer. Ask God to be your guide on this journey and to give you insights into areas in your life where you want more clarity. Make a commitment to yourself to grow during this very special season of Advent. During this pilgrimage, walk away from the noise of the world, and walk towards the peace and rest that only our Lord and Savior can provide!
Preparing Socially
A “Camino family” is a group of people that meet on the route and become friends through the shared experience. Pilgrims will have a much more enriched experience if they make an effort to break away from the friends that they came with, and have great conversations with others they have just met! Caminos have a way of opening doors and breaking down barriers. Walking pilgrims have little with them, which allows their personalities to shine through! So make new pilgrim friends, they will enrich your days!