People of faith in Southern Indiana set to embark on Pilgrimage for Creation

Ferdinand–Monastery Immaculate Conception and Saint Meinrad Archabbey are partnering to hold a Pilgrimage for Creation, a spiritually transformative journey that blends prayer, reflection, and a deep commitment to caring for God’s creation.

To honor the Season of Creation (September 1 – October 4) and as part of the global call for ecological conversion initiated by Pope Francis in Laudato Si’, this pilgrimage will pass through parts of Dubois and Spencer Counties to emphasize the profound connection between spirituality and environmental stewardship. Traditionally, a pilgrimage is a journey to a holy place, where the pilgrim reflects and prays for guidance along the way. The two monasteries previously hosted a Benedictine Hills Pilgrimage in September of 2006 and 2007. As both communities reflected on the significance of these events and the transforming element of pilgrimage, it seemed appropriate to host an event inspired by past pilgrimages, which led to a Pilgrimage of Hope for Creation in 2025.

On Saturday, September 5 at 9:30 a.m. EDT, a prayer followed by a light breakfast will be held at the Monastery Immaculate Conception Event Hall. The six-mile walk to Saint Meinrad Archabbey will begin at the Event Hall at 10:30 a.m. EDT, with the option of a tractor and wagon (limited seating) for those who can’t walk the full distance or will need to rest along the way. Water and rest stops will be available along the route. The pilgrimage will travel to Saint Meinrad Archabbey Church via St. Benedict Drive, Sunrise Drive, Monte Cassino Road, and IN-162. Those who wish to participate in this Pilgrimage for Creation but prefer to ride in a car may carpool from the Event Hall to Monte Cassino Shrine for prayer and song before continuing to Saint Meinrad Archabbey. All pilgrims will meet at the Saint Meinrad Archabbey Church around 1:30 p.m. EDT to conclude with prayer, a group photo, and a light lunch in the Guest House. Bus transportation will be available to take pilgrims back to Ferdinand at the conclusion of lunch. All times are Eastern Daylight Time.

Since 2021, members of the Laudato Si’ Circle at Monastery Immaculate Conception have studied and advocated Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home. Pilgrimages of Hope for Creation is a nationwide initiative launched by a coalition of Catholic and environmental organizations. The initiative calls Catholics to reflect on the profound relationship between God, humanity, and Creation, and to take concrete steps toward healing the Earth and renewing their spiritual commitment to caring for the environment.

Pilgrims will move through sacred landscapes and places of environmental significance, so that the journey not only
strengthens their faith but also challenges them to take concrete actions for the environment. Pilgrims will be encouraged to adopt an eco-conscious lifestyle, incorporating actions that help protect the Earth and its resources. “What kind of world do we want to leave to those who come after us, to children who are now growing up?” – Laudato Si’ (160)

Regardless of religion, anyone who wishes to attend this event is welcome. The pilgrimage will proceed rain or shine. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. Registration can be done by visiting http://www.thedome.org/pilgrimage.

Registration forms will also be available on site the day of the event.