Questions:

When does the pilgrimage take place?

Sunday August 11 to Wednesday August 14, 2024. It begins with 9 am Divine Liturgy on the morning of the 11th at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, Yorkton, Sk. The pilgrimage ends at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rama Sk., Pilgrims are welcome to stay and take in the Rama Pilgrimage August 14-15. 

How much does it cost?

We invite all pilgrims to pay a registration fee of $90.00/adult, $15.00/ages 11-18, and no charge for those under 11. This covers the cost of portable washrooms, trucks, buses, etc. It also includes the cost of water and  meals.  Prices are adjusted if you wish to join us for only part of the time. 

We understand that for some the cost may be too much. If that’s the case, offer what you can and don’t worry. It’s more important that everyone who wants to come comes.

e Transfers can be sent  to dave@stphilomena.ca   or;                                                                                 

cheques  made payable to “Dave and Bev Hudy” can be sent to the following address:

St. Philomena Walking Pilgrimage, Box 1023, Melville, Sk. S0A 2P0

Registration deadline is August 4.

Try to register before July 15th to ensure a free t-shirt.

What if I feel I can't walk any farther or am in need of assistance?

We have people following the walkers with support vehicles. They are available to give people rides to the next rest stop, to their vehicle, or for medical help.

Who can come on the pilgrimage?

All ages are most welcome. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or appointed guardian over the age of 18. All are required to register and provide the needed information (emergency contact, etc.)

Can I join the pilgrimage if I'm not Catholic?

Yes, each year we have people involved who are not Catholic. You are not obliged to take in all aspects of the pilgrimage, only those which you wish to participate in.

What about accommodation before and after the pilgrimage?  

 We understand that some pilgrims joining us could be travelling a long distance to get here. Ask us about the possibility if being billeted on the nights before and after the pilgrimage.

Will I have to carry all of my baggage?

The camping equipment, etc., is loaded every morning into a trailer that transports it to the next destination. Personal items (water, snacks, sunscreen, etc) are carried by pilgrims in their own backpacks.

What about safe drinking water?

Throughout the pilgrimage water is provided at the resting points. Please bring your own water bottle to cut down on garbage and so that you have water to keep in your walking bag.

What do I need to bring?

At some of the rest stops it may be possible to stay inside. There are cabins at the Springside Bible Camp, a hall at Burgis Beach and a gym at the Buchanan Community Centre. But, if you have a tent, it's a good idea to bring it anyway and you will need to bring your own sleeping gear.  Bring a lawn chair if you have one. Some of the meals are provided, but not all, so you’ll need to bring some food.  You may wish to bring a swim suit as we will be staying near a beach at Good Spirit Lake on Day 2.  Consider bringing more than one pair of walking shoes to help prevent blisters as well as a few pairs of double layered socks. See the special section about foot care for information on what to bring to treat blisters and what to do to help prevent blisters.

What will we eat for meals?

Meals are usually provided by volunteers from local parishes. Each meal is different and efforts will be made to provide  gluten free, diabetic and vegetarian choices. Please indicate on the registration form if you have any special dietary needs.

What meals are provided?

Breakfasts and suppers are supplied.  Lunch is not supplied, but, there usually are  snacks available at the rest stops.

Really, you don't need to bring much, if any food. 

Will there be coffee?

There will be coffee each morning! Please, bring along your favourite coffee cup.

Will there be showers?

We expect to have  showers available in the evening of Day 3, pilgrims will need their own towels and wash cloths.  There may be a limited amount of showers in the evening of Day 1.

What can I do to prevent blisters on my feet?

We have developed a separate file concerning foot care.  Click Here.

How do I prepare physically for the pilgrimage?

We have prepared a separate file regarding nutrition. Click here.

I am not able to come for the full 4 days, am I able to participate?

People are able to participate for any length of time. We invite all to experience the full pilgrimage yet realize that it may not be possible for everyone. We invite you to join us even if it's only for part of a day. But, everyone who walks with us must register!

If you would just like to come for the Masses or adoration, you are most welcome and don’t need to register.

How do I get home?

You may wish to drive to Rama and leave your vehicle there so it is waiting for you when you finish your pilgrimage. We are able offer a ride for you and your gear to Yorkton, we plan to leave Rama at 7:15 on the morning of Day 1. If you choose this option, please be sure to indicate this on the registration form.

Another arrangement is to have a family member or friend bring you to Yorkton on the first morning and pick you up in Rama at the end.  They could join us for the opening Mass in Yorkton, as well as the beautiful Rama Shrine pilgrimage including the 8:00 p.m. Mass, Living Rosary and Candlelight Procession.