What is Presbyterian Pilgrimage?

The Presbyterian Pilgrimage is a three-day spiritual renewal experience designed to strengthen the faith of individual members of Presbyterian churches, and through them to impact the environment in which they live, worship and work. Pilgrimage is based on Cursillo, meaning a short course in living the Christian Faith. Presbyterian Pilgrimage is consistent with the Reformed Faith and similar to other denominational weekends including Walk to Emmaus (Methodist), Via de Cristo (Lutheran), Tres Dias (Interdenominational Christian), KAIROS (prison ministry) and Episcopal Cursillo.

During the weekend (Thursday evening through Sunday afternoon) participants worship and study together to gain a more personal awareness of their faith, as well as the joys and responsibilities which that faith brings. No advance study or preparation is required to participate.

In 2010, there are 2 Presbyterian Pilgrimages in South Carolina. The first one (Pilgrimage #59) is June 10 - 13 at Camp St. Christopher on Seabrook Island. The second one (Pilgrimage #60) is September 23 - 29 at Bethelwoods camp and Conference Center in York, SC.

Who goes to the Presbyterian Pilgrimage?

The weekend is not designed to convert unbelief to belief or to convert members of other denominations to Presbyterianism. It is intended for adult members of Presbyterian or other Christian churches:

• Who already have faith in and commitment to Jesus Christ;
• Who seek an even closer and more personal relationship with Christ; and
• Who desire to heighten their joy, deepen their faith, and invigorate their life in Christ.

Pilgrimage is an individual experience that occurs in community. It is not a couples retreat, but because each weekend is as different as the makeup of the particular group of participants and staff, married couples may desire to attend the same weekend if their family responsibilities, work and other circumstances permit.

The staff of each weekend is comprised of people who have previously attended a Pilgrimage or other similar three-day weekend and who desire to share the experience of Pilgrimage with others. They have been trained to serve in this leadership role.

Who goes to 4th Day?

The Pilgrimage weekend is only a beginning. As "Pilgrims" return to their home churches, they bring back a renewed faith and commitment to service within their local congregation and community. That commitment and renewed faith receive ongoing support from the 4th Day small groups of people who meet regularly to affirm one another and to share the Christian life of Grace. Generally, 4th Day groups are comprised of those who have attended a Pilgrimage or similar weekend, but ALL are welcome to enjoy this opportunity for fellowship, inspiration, and challenge for ongoing Christian action in homes, churches and communities.

SPC is currently forming 4th day groups. If you are interested in joining a group, or in Pilgrimage, please contact J.C. Simmons or Phil and Diane Dunham. You may also contact the church office.

Download the Pilgimage attendee application.

Download the Pilgrimage staff application.