Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage and procession will be making its way to the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois from July 8-12, as part of a larger national event that culminates in the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. Described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this pilgrimage aims to bring Catholics together to pray and publicly follow Jesus through Eucharistic processions in various cities.

According to Andrew Hansen, the Editor, this event is being hailed as "our national Emmaus moment," drawing parallels to the biblical account of Jesus walking with his disciples to Emmaus. The pilgrimage route through the Diocese of Springfield will start in San Francisco and pass through several cities in Central Illinois, inviting people of all backgrounds to participate and witness their faith in action.

The schedule for the pilgrimage includes stops at different cities each day, featuring Masses, Eucharistic processions, adoration, witness talks, and community dinners. One of the highlights will be the handoff of the national traveling monstrance from Bishop Michael McGovern to Bishop Thomas John Paprocki at Ss. Peter and Paul Church in Collinsville on July 8.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in various spiritual activities such as adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, fellowship with neighbors, and reflections on the significance of the Eucharist in their lives. The procession will also include stops at significant religious institutions along the way, providing a rich spiritual experience for all involved.

For those interested in joining the procession, registering for the events is required. Participants can find more information and register on the official website of the Diocese of Springfield. Additionally, volunteers are welcome to contact the hosting parishes in each city to offer their assistance.

As the community prepares for this unique spiritual journey, attendees are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and to bring a water bottle and snacks for the procession. The event promises to be a time of prayer, reflection, and fellowship, as participants come together to publicly proclaim their faith in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

For more information and to sign up for the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage and procession, visit https://dio.org/procession/.