News
In 2025 the Bishop of the Diocese of Beaumont will be offering the Final Blessing of the Pilgrims. The Most Reverend Bishop David Toups is scheduled at the end of the 13TH Annual Lenten Pilgrimage about 3:30 p.m. March 15, 2025 at the Queen of Peace Shrine.
We extend our sincere appreciation to The Most Reverend Bishop, as well as the Pastors in Port Arthur of Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. James, Queen of Vietnam, and St. Catherine Churches, in addition to the Principal of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School.
A special symphony of thanks goes to the Reverend Canon Jean-Marie Moreau with St. Francis de Sales Oratory, Sulphur, Louisiana for his many hours of preparation to be the Celebrant of the Holy Mass, leading the 5-mile walk, Way of the Cross, as well as bringing his army of Altar Servers and inspiring many more to attend. Those who offered their time to hear Confessions and give the Holy Power of Absolution are much appreciated by the Faithful: Father Senovio, Father Sibi, and Father Thompson.
Some say the sacred music of Gregorian Chant sung by the volunteer schola (choir) “sounds like angels from Heaven.” The schola offers an audio experience that honors the traditions of the Holy Mother Church and compliments the reverence of the Holy Mass. We so appreciate the schola members who come together from many walks of life, far and wide, to lead our prayers in song.
Typically the lay group of men representing the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family, and Property fly their colorful red standard behind Our Lady near the front bringing attention to our peaceful procession in prayer in the public square, for which they are known throughout the United States. You can easily spot them wearing their matching red capes across their chests.
The Knights of Columbus Council 3406 from St. Henry Catholic Church in Bridge City, Texas, who are regionally known for their volunteer opportunities in service and outstanding delicious fried catfish fundraisers, volunteer their acclaimed support. Many pilgrims ask every year, “Are the KCs coming?!” The Catholic School of St. Catherine of Siena volunteers their facilities at the first stop, highlighting their Catholic education available to all faiths.
Both the young KCs and the Men’s Group of Lamar University have proven their muscle in helping with the movement of equipment and directing the traffic that comes from a growing Pilgrimage.
Special credit for maintaining this website goes to our new webmaster, Mr. Russell Kron, who looks forward to making it the best it can be over the coming years. An increasing number on the Steering Committee have donated their wisdom, advice, hands, feet, money, and prayers so that the Pilgrimage provides a path for all of us to do God’s will and build our lives more around the Kingdom of Christ.
Over the decade plus years of the Annual Lenten Pilgrimage there have been many, many volunteers working behind the scenes who never want/get the limelight. You know who you are! We are forever grateful to all of those who volunteer, be they named or unnamed, for without them the Pilgrimage would not be what it is today. May God reward you richly for all you do for His glory!
For all these we are so thankful!