The Ninth Annual Baby Steps Camino presented by the Order of Malta American Association, was held Dec. 12 to 14, offering pilgrims three days of prayer, reflection, sacrifice, worship and fellowship, all of which are such a big focus during the Advent season.
The word “pilgrim” comes from the Latin word “peregrinus,” which means stranger or crusader. That is exactly what many had the opportunity to experience firsthand on this year’s Baby Steps Camino as they may have started out as strangers at the beginning but by the end, they were friends and brothers and sisters in faith.
The pilgrimage began its journey at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Jacksonville Beach and by the final day ended with its final destination being the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche in St. Augustine.
The goal of the pilgrimage, according to the Order of Malta American Association, is for those who took part in the journey to be united in enriching the Catholic faith with those around us to be better prepared for the coming of our Lord.
The full camino featured 30 miles of a mixture of beach and street walking over the three-day period with shorter versions offered as well.
Mass kicked off the first two days, while Bishop Erik Pohlmeier was celebrant for the closing Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine to wrap up the pilgrimage.
Photos by Fran Ruchalski
