Pilgrims may sign a guest book as they enter the pilgrim church. Pilgrims should venerate the Blessed Sacrament and proceed to the statue or image of St. Joseph.
The last church to be visited will be the St. Joseph Church nearest your parish; it can also be your own parish named after him.
Guidelines upon Visiting the Pilgrim Churches
Pilgrims must pray the Act of Consecration to St. Joseph at the image of St. Joseph or some prescribed prayers for St. Joseph especially the ones in the pilgrim’s prayer booklet.
If possible, pilgrims should attend the celebration of the Eucharist in one of the pilgrim churches.
Pilgrims are encouraged to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation in one of the pilgrim churches.
Pilgrims are encouraged to bring something for the poor (like non-perishable groceries, food vouchers/visa cards, etc.) to one of the pilgrim churches.
Special Tips
The Pilgrimage is about 6 months long. There is enough time to complete the journey, but expect that the number of pilgrims will be doubled as the period comes to a close.
Most pilgrim sites are open Saturdays 8am - 5pm. Pilgrims are always encouraged to call the parish office during weekday business hours to assist with planning. Note that there might be a baptism, wedding, funeral, etc happening while you visit the church. It is advised that pilgrims remain quiet and respect the on-going event.
Note that some churches ask that you call ahead at least five (5) days in advance of your visit.
Wear comfortable clothing. Always consider clothing that shows reverence for our Lord.
Always follow diocesan-prescribed protocols for COVID-19.
Offer Masses or make prayer intentions for the poor souls in purgatory, praying for a happy death, or good health, etc.
Offer an intention for the elderly, the ill, the dying, and those who are unable to leave the house for health reasons. Pray especially for your discomforts and challenges during these trying times of this pandemic.
Discover each virtue of St. Joseph in our lives and grow in our faith: a beloved father; a tender and loving father; an obedient father; an accepting father; a creatively courageous father; a working father; and a father in the shadows.
SAINT JOSEPH CHURCH PILGRIMAGE SITES:
1. Yreka 2. McCloud 3. Redding 4. Marysville 5. Lincoln 6. Auburn 7. Sacramento 8. Clarksburg 9. Elk Grove 10. Vacaville 11. Rio Vista