Frequently Asked Questions for Pilgrims
What is the Walk to Emmaus about?
The Walk to Emmaus is a spiritual renewal program intended to strengthen the local church through the development of Christian disciples and leaders. The program’s approach seriously considers the model of Christ’s servanthood and encourages Christ’s disciples to act in ways appropriate to being “a servant of all”.
The Walk to Emmaus experience begins with a 72-hour short course in Christianity, comprised of fifteen talks by lay and clergy on the themes of God’s grace, disciplines of Christian discipleship, and what it means to be the church. The course is wrapped in prayer and meditation, special times of worship and daily celebration of Holy Communion. The “Emmaus community,” made up of those who have attended an Emmaus weekend, support the 72-hour experience with a prayer vigil, by preparing and serving meals, and other acts of love and self-giving. The Emmaus Walk typically begins Thursday evening and concludes Sunday evening. Men and women attend separate weekends.
During and after the three days, Emmaus leaders encourage participants to meet regularly in small groups. The members of the small groups challenge and support one another in faithful living. Participants seek to Christianize their environments of family, job, and community through the ministry of their congregations. The three-day Emmaus experience and follow-up groups strengthen and renew Christian people as disciples of Jesus Christ and as active members of the body of Christ in mission to the world.
—from What Is Emmaus? Copyright The Upper Room.
Watch the video to see testimonials and learn more about the Walk to Emmaus.
Here are a few things to consider before your Walk to Emmaus weekend:
When is the next Mens Walk to Emmaus?
Men’s Walk to Emmaus #2024w – April 18 – 21, 2024
Walk Lay Director:
Walk Spiritual Director:
Servant Team Coordinator:
When is the next Women’s Walk to Emmaus?
Women’s Walk to Emmaus #2024w – October 17-21, 2024
Walk Lay Director:
Walk Spiritual Director:
Servant Team Coordinator:
How much does it cost?
The 3 day retreat costs $185.00 for lodging and meals, which is low compared to other Walk to Emmaus retreats.
Who can be my sponsor?
Anyone who has gone on a Walk to Emmaus over 6 months ago may sponsor a pilgrim. It is best to find someone you know who attends your church. If you do not know of anyone, click the link “Please help me find a sponsor” to send us an email. Be sure to include the name and address of your church and we will help you find a sponsor.
Things to take on the Walk:
- Pillow, sheet, and blanket for lower bunk bed.
- Soap, towel and wash cloth
- Small flashlight
- Small over the shoulder purse or pouch
- Sweater or light jacket
- Comfortable shoes
- Casual clothing
- Personal hygiene items
- CPAP machine and 15 foot extension cord
Things to NOT take on the Walk:
- Phone
- Pager
- Watch
- Radio
- Camera
- Any device that will cause a distraction or allow one to communicate off campus.
Please let us know about all special requirements you may have:
We want your Walk to Emmaus to be a wonderful experience so it is vitally important that you let us know how we can help you.
- Special Diet
- Special Medication
- Medical Condition that requires special sleeping conditions. A good example is Acid reflux and you need to sleep with your head elivated.
- CPAP machine, need your bed to be near an electrical outlet.
Please report all devices not listed that you require for any reason
How can I get started?
Someone in your church can help you get started. If you want to attend a walk, you must fill out an application and find a sponsor. Your sponsor will help you every step of the way. They will be your servant and make the process easy. If you do not know someone in your church, then send us an email with the name of your church and we will help you.
Please help me find a sponsor