Father-son pilgrimages along Spain’s Camino de Santiago, organized by Al Jirak of Sacred Heart Parish in Colwich, are set to return in 2026. The initiative follows previous trips where groups of fathers and sons traveled the historic route to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain.

Al Jirak, reflecting on Christian traditions, noted that walking pilgrimages were once a significant part of Catholic spirituality. "It is a lost Catholic devotion that has largely been dropped," he said. "I want to help awaken that practice."

Jirak first completed the pilgrimage with his three oldest sons in 2021, starting from Pamplona and spending about 31 days walking together. Including travel time, they spent approximately 40 days outside the United States. He described the experience as transformative for both himself and his sons: "It was amazing," he said. "Incredible."

Motivated by this experience, Jirak organized shorter two-week versions for other fathers and sons, aiming to reach those whose relationships may need strengthening. “Even fathers and sons who struggle in their relationship, or who maybe are not all that religious, may be interested in doing something exotic and challenging in a foreign country,” Jirak said. He recommends the pilgrimage for students from seventh grade through high school.

The trips have included spiritual guidance from Diocese of Wichita priests such as Fr. Chad Arnold, Fr. Chris Rumback, and Fr. Eric Weldon. Daily Mass was offered at the end of each day during these journeys.

Reflecting on improvements between pilgrimages held in 2022 and 2024, Jirak said: “The second one was much better because we figured out a lot of the logistics.”

Participants have provided positive feedback regarding their experiences:

• “The experience was more valuable than I can express. The journey with my sons was priceless. The emotional and physical journey is shared and we all grew together on our trip.”

• “After seeing how much my son enjoyed our time together it’s something you can’t put a price tag on. We grew together spiritually and emotionally.”

• “This is something I will have with my sons for the rest of our lives. I am hoping to take the rest of my family at some point in time. The minute we left, I couldn’t wait to come back.”

• “Absolutely one of the best ways to make a lifetime friendship while being spiritually enlightened.”

Bishop Carl Kemme of the Diocese of Wichita voiced support for these efforts: “Their ministry of bringing fathers and sons together along the ancient Way of St. James, accompanied by good priests, does much to strengthen families and faith,” he said. “Against the rich Catholic backdrop of the Camino de Santiago, they incorporate daily Mass and fellowship alongside a slower pace of life, enriching the lives of those who walk with them. May the Holy Spirit continue to bless their work.”

Plans are underway for another father-son pilgrimage along Spain's Camino de Santiago for two weeks during summer 2026. Those interested can attend an information night scheduled for Monday, October 13 at 7 p.m., with RSVPs accepted at caminofullyalive.com.