CINCINNATI, Ohio — Three hundred miles in over 33 days: The Archdiocese of Cincinnati is venturing on a pilgrimage in celebration of faith extending farther than any other in the United States.
The Archdiocese of Cincinnati is amid the longest Marian Pilgrimage in the United States in celebration of 200 years of religious service in Ohio.
The journey started on May 16 at Russels Point and will end on June 19 in Cincinnati at St. Peter in Chains.
Katie Englefield is the associate director of marriage preparation for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and she’s walked more than 120 miles already along the journey.
“There’s something about a pilgrimage that just really engages the whole senses,” Englefield said.
Across the duration of the 33-day journey, the group is carrying a sacred statue of the Virgin Mary.
Englefield said there is no better way to re-engage the Catholic faith.
“So many churches are closing with COVID,” Englefield said. “The churches are a lot emptier than they used to be. We are literally bringing the mother of the church through the archdiocese with this pilgrimage.”
The group recently completed a 15-mile leg through West Chester as they move through southwest Ohio.
They’ll stop for water or food or for adjustments to make sure the payload is secure — crossing busy streets with an RV marking their presence asking for patience from motorists.
Englefield said the statue and the table weigh 55 pounds. But for the pilgrims, the weight is not a burden.
“We’ve never had problems getting people to carry her because when you’re carrying her it’s such an honor,” Englefield said.
The group is hosted by each Parrish they stop at, which is showing the strength of the Archdiocese.
“It’s been a beautiful way to meet new people,” Englefield said. “Especially, after this time of COVID when everyone is so isolated. It’s been a great community experience too.
The group will sing and pray to pass the time along their walk as well as enjoy the landscapes and cities they traverse through.
Mike Schafer, director of Communication and Evangelization for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, said it’s been an awesome experience to partake in this journey.
He said he hopes to see people celebrate when the group reaches the final stop.
“There’s going to be a celebration not only at the cathedral at 11 a.m. mass but also on Fountain Square from 12-4 that afternoon,” Schafer said.
And while their legs may be tired at the end of each day, Englefield said it’s all worth it.
“We’re hoping that this is going to revitalize the faith of the Christian people and that more people will have the courage and really be inspired to live their faith out in the public streets of our country,” Englefield said.
To track their progress or follow along live, click here to visit their website.
