Why Pilgrimage?
- Pilgrimage is an essential part of life and living. Christians see life itself in terms of a journey, coming from God and returning to God. This is true of other world religions where pilgrimage is also important.
- A pilgrimage is a symbol in action. It represents the journey of the Christian life from earth to heaven. A pilgrimage is a quest and expression of one’s faith.
- People go on pilgrimages to grow in holiness, deepen their relationship with God, and/or discern a major life decision.
- As part of the Church’s piety, pilgrimages can enrich, purify and lead the Christian people into a closer and more perfect union with Christ. Going on a pilgrimage is an expression of piety that extends the liturgical life of the Church without replacing it. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1674- 1676)
There are several ways to do Wisconsin Way Pilgrimages. Walking, Biking, & Vehicle.
Walking – The Wisconsin Way is a relatively new pilgrimage. I recommend starting from the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion in New Franken, WI, to Holy Hill & National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians in Hubertus, WI, to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, La Crosse, WI.
This can be done in sections, although this walking pilgrimage is more developed from New Franken, WI to Hubertus, WI.
I recommend Stacey Wittig’s Spiritual and Walking Guide: The Wisconsin Way. Please know that this is a new pilgrimage, and the history is not as deep compared to other pilgrimages. I recommend you have two or more pilgrims with you and be prepared to change your plans due to circumstances out of your control. For example, the weather or Ice Age Trail might be closed during the time of year, plus there are different types of terrain you will be walking.
Biking – Use the Peddlers Pilgrimage
Vehicle – Using your own vehicle & Stacey Wittig’s Spiritual and Walking Guide for The Wisconsin Way.