A Pilgrimage to Our Catholic Roots

Intermountain Catholic

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by Father Rick Sherman

MOAB — Members of the St. Pius X Parish (Moab) and St. Joseph Parish (Monticello) Confirmation classes embarked on a four-day pilgrimage in early October to holy sites in New Mexico. Areas visited were the Sanctuario in Chimayo, Churches in Santa Cruz, San Juan Pueblo, Santa Fe, and Taos. Prior to embarking on the pilgrimage, the class solicited requests for healing of body, mind and spirit to be offered at a special Mass of healing at the Sanctuario, a shrine known for its many profound healings. The Utah pilgrims also met a youth group at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Taos for a short retreat and other fun activities. Besides being a mission of healing, the pilgrims were also emphasizing that Confirmation is a re-commitment to their life-long journey of discipleship and helps them understand their connection with other sojourners from the long history of Catholicism in the American southwest. It was a rewarding trip and it is hoped the spiritual energy will continue to manifest itself in ongoing parish activities in both St. Joseph and St. Pius X parish communities.