While the Way of St. James – the “Camino de Santiago de Compostela” – is one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in the world and is traveled by many seeking to cultivate their faith, it is not accessible for everyone.
For seniors and their families seeking to have a similar experience closer to home, a walk along the Atlantic County coastline is once again offering just that.
The “Way of St. James Walk” in Ventnor is an annual tradition that started six years ago; it is organized by VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services of the Diocese of Camden.
“We use this as the inspiration to encourage our seniors to experience a very mini version of [the Camino] as we pray and walk to and from Saint James Church,” said Deacon Jerry Jablonowski, VITALity’s executive director. “We look forward to a day that brings joy into the lives of our seniors through a beautiful walk along the seashore, prayer and the celebration of Mass and then the fellowship of breaking bread together at a meal.”
This year’s walk will take place April 20 at Saint James Church, Holy Trinity Parish, Ventnor. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and the day begins with morning prayer at 9 a.m. After prayer, participants will go on a 2.5-mile roundtrip walk along the boardwalk, starting at the church. After returning, attendees can attend Mass before sharing fellowship and lunch in the church hall. The program usually concludes by around 2 p.m.
“The event sparks new friendships and strengthens family bonds when their grandchildren accompany them through the day,” Deacon Jablonowski said. “This event combines the needed ingredients for a healthy life – physical and spiritual exercise, good nutrition and the gathering into community among those who might otherwise feel isolation.”
There is no cost to participate, and each participant will receive a free T-shirt.
Deacon Jablonowski said that participants can expect a day with organized activities, but also sufficient time for rest and relaxation.
“It’s important in not just bringing our seniors together into a community of faith and friends for a day – it’s more so a day to remind them of how walking, praying and enjoying the outdoors can bring so much spiritual joy and health benefits into their lives,” he said. “And, if accompanied by their children and grandchildren, the added benefit of quality time is just another bonus. We at VITALity are happy to sponsor this day of physical and spiritual well-being, and we thank Holy Trinity Parish for their generosity in offering us Saint James Church and their parish facilities for the day.”
Registration is available on the day of the event, but pre-registration is preferred. Participants can contact Christine Willard at VITALity by emailing VITALity-Events@camdendiocese.org or calling 856-583-6121.
at the bottom and then tap “Add to Home Screen”
