Local pilgrimage invites families to grow in faith together this summer

Looking for a meaningful family outing this summer? Consider becoming a pilgrim.

As part of the Jubilee of St. Francis, Bishop Erik Pohlmeier has designated seven sacred sites across the Diocese of St. Augustine where the faithful can make a pilgrimage, deepen their faith and receive a plenary indulgence before the jubilee concludes Jan. 10, 2027.

For Nancy Powers and nine friends from Christ the King Parish in Jacksonville, the pilgrimage has become much more than a series of road trips.

“The one thing that really surprised me is that you learn a lot about yourself, but also about all that the diocese has to offer on a pilgrimage like this,” Powers said. “These are sites that can have a huge impact on your life and your relationship with God, and they’re right in our own backyard.”

The women, who have prayed together for years, decided the pilgrimage would be the next step in their spiritual journey.

They began at St. Francis Mission in Yulee and have since visited Sacred Heart Parish in Fleming Island and the Santa Fe Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche in High Springs. At each stop, they attend Mass or pray the Stations of the Cross before gathering for a meal and conversation.

Kelly Stephens said the pilgrimage has strengthened both her faith and her trust in God.

“I am so blessed to be walking this pilgrimage journey with this group of ladies,” she said. “It’s teaching me to walk much more humbly and to trust more in God’s plan for our lives, just as St. Francis did.”

For Powers, the fellowship is just as meaningful as the destinations.

“In many ways, the car rides are as important as anything,” she said. “Nothing compares to spending that quality time with friends as we grow in faith together.”

She encourages families, friends and parish groups to make their own pilgrimage before the jubilee concludes.

The seven designated pilgrimage sites

• Sacred Heart Parish, Fleming Island
• National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios, St. Augustine
• St. Francis Mission, Yulee
• St. Michael Parish, Fernandina Beach
• Holy Faith Parish, Gainesville
• Santa Fe Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, High Springs
• San Sebastian Catholic Church, St. Augustine

Receive a Jubilee Indulgence

Pilgrims who visit one of the designated sacred places may receive a plenary indulgence by:

• Receiving holy Communion.
• Celebrating the sacrament of reconciliation and being detached from all sin.
• Praying for the intentions of Pope Leo XIV.
• Spending time in prayer and reflection.

Those who are elderly, sick, homebound or caring for someone unable to leave home may also receive the indulgence if they intend to fulfill the usual conditions as soon as possible.