The Transforming Power of Pilgrimage
The spiritual practice of pilgrimage traces to the beginning of our tradition, as early Christians sought to encounter the Risen Christ by walking in the footsteps of Jesus in Jerusalem and throughout the Holy Land. Over the centuries, the transforming power of pilgrimage was discovered in paths and destinations around the Christian world, including the Camino in Spain, Canterbury, Iona, and Taizé. Pilgrims journeyed along these sacred ways and visited these and other holy places as a way of deepening their faith and inspiring their lives. Pilgrimages can be local, regional, across North America, and international: from the San Luis Valley in Colorado, to a border pilgrimage to Mexico, to a compelling journey to the Holy Land.
Over the past 5 years, over 250 adult and youth pilgrims from 44 congregations from across Colorado have been drawn to pilgrimages near and far and discovered that by making pilgrimage, individuals and communities experience their faith and find inspiration in ways they never imagined!
Explore this page to learn about pilgrimage offerings from around the Episcopal Church in Colorado. The Formation Team (the Rev. Canon Greg Foraker, Tracy Methe, Elizabeth Cervasio, and Janet Choyce) is available to answer questions and to help you imagine and plan your next pilgrimage!
A Pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago through Galicia
May 18-29, 2026
The Camino Francés de Santiago, or the French Way of St. James, begins in France and continues some 500 miles into the region of Galicia and finally to Santiago. This same path has been taken for over 1300 years by the faithful, making their Holy Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Pilgrims from across the Episcopal Church in Colorado have made Camino pilgrimages for years, and this year, we have created another life-changing walking pilgrimage, including faith-building experiences walking through the ancient Celtic and Iberian landscape of Galicia, a region that invites deep reflection, continual prayer, and inspiring community. This pilgrimage is co-sponsored by St. Matthew's, Grand Junction, and The Episcopal Church in Colorado. Contact the Rev. Jan Head or Canon Greg Foraker for more information.
Walking in the Footsteps of Saint Hildegard:
A Pilgrimage on the Hildegard Way Trail in Germany
September 12-22, 2026
The Hildegard Way Pilgrimage trail traces the path of revered theologian, composer, and mystic Saint Hildegard von Bingen. This recently established pilgrimage route inspires a unique blend of personal reflection, historical exploration, and walking amid breathtaking natural landscapes. Spanning key locations significant to Hildegard's life, this transformative walking tour connects pilgrims to her deep legacy and fosters personal growth and contemplation. The Hildegard of Bingen Pilgrimage Route (Pilgerwanderweg) stretches 84 miles (135 km), and we will walk specific highlights over 10 days, as well as make curated visits to historic and cultural destinations. Each day invites spiritual reflection and connection with nature, resonating with Hildegard's holistic teachings and her extraordinary legacy. This pilgrimage is co-sponsored by St. John's Episcopal Church, Boulder.
About Saint Hildegard
Saint Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179) is renowned as a musical composer, physician and healer, theologian, and historian of nature. In 2012, she was promoted as Doctor of the Universal Church (Doctor Ecclesiae Universalis) by Pope Benedict XVI. She was only the fourth woman to receive this honor besides Catarina of Siena, Teresa of Ávila and Thérèse of Lisieux.
Pilgrimage Leaders
Michael M. Conti & Heather Boyle