Advent, A Pilgrimage of Hope
Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year and serves as the season of preparation for the birth of Christ. Over four weeks, the faithful engage in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, undertaking a spiritual pilgrimage that prepares hearts and minds for the celebration of Christmas. It is a time of reflection, expectation, and worship, guiding Christians toward a deeper relationship with God and a renewal of hope.
The spirit of pilgrimage — a journey of both physical and spiritual significance — is a central theme of Advent. It invites the faithful to reflect on their own spiritual journey, embracing the call to follow God’s plan. Joseph and Mary journeyed from Nazareth to the city of David, Bethlehem, where prophecy foretold the Messiah would be born. Their journey was a fulfillment of divine prophecy, signaling the hope of salvation for all mankind. Mary, carrying the unborn Jesus, and Joseph, her protector, were guided by faith and trust on their pilgrimage to Bethlehem.
Advent Pilgrimages
El Camino de San Antonio Missions invites you on pilgrimage this Advent season. On Saturday, Dec. 14, El Camino will host their monthly Community Camino. This month, pilgrims will walk from Mission San Juan Capistrano to Mission San Francisco de la Espada and back. Attendees will enjoy guided tours of each Mission, fellowship with other pilgrims, and the peace and beauty of the San Antonio River trail. The Community Camino is free, but registration is required.
Visit the site caminosanantonio.org/events for more. A free Advent pilgrimage guide is also available on the website to enrich spiritual journeys.
‘Christmas at the Missions’ Exhibit
For a deeper dive into the Advent and Christmas mission traditions, visit the Margil Center to experience the “Christmas at the Missions” Exhibit. Running through Saturday, Jan. 11, this exhibit explores traditional Advent and Christmas practices, including posadas, pastores, matachines, and nativities. Visitors can also browse the gift shop for unique items that reflect the spirit of the season. The Margil Center is located at 263 Felisa Street in San Antonio and is open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The center offers maps, guides, and information to help visitors experience the missions as places of spiritual renewal.
This Advent season, the missions of San Antonio invite you to embark on a pilgrimage of faith, hope, and prayer. Whether through physical pilgrimage like the Community Camino or exploring the cherished traditions of the season, the missions offer a profound opportunity to connect with the sacred and embrace the spirit of Advent and Christmas.
