More than 10,000 pilgrims took to the streets for the 13th Annual Walk to Mary “America’s Mini Camino”. From the National Shrine of St. Joseph to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion, pilgrims journeyed 22 miles in prayer, sacrifice, joy, and faith.
Every mile carried prayers. Rosaries echoed down highways and country roads as families, priests, religious sisters, children, and pilgrims from around the world walked together toward Our Blessed Mother. Though feet grew weary and the journey demanded sacrifice, smiles never faded. Joy radiated from faces because this pilgrimage was about encountering Christ through His Mother.
Thousands of cars passed by and witnessed something the world rarely sees: people unafraid to live their faith publicly. Pilgrims sang hymns, prayed, carried crosses, and walked with peace in their hearts. You can not help but be moved by this extraordinary testimony of living faith.
On the Shrine Grounds, we hosted the 1.7 Mile Children’s Walk, which reminded us especially of Our Lady of Champion’s message to Servant of God Adele Brice: “Gather the children in this wild country and teach them what they should know for salvation.”
These photos capture more than moments; they capture a movement. A Church alive. A faith burning brightly. A pilgrimage that continues long after the final mile.
Because every day of our lives is still a Walk to Mary, one step closer to our Mother, and one step closer to Heaven.
Join us for our next event, celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary, July 1-9, 2026. Thousands will gather at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion to encounter the incredible stories of America’s saints and future saints. Experience a one-of-a-kind event and be inspired by the faith of those who came before us. Rediscover that the call to sainthood is alive in America today. LEARN MORE https://championshrine.org/americansaints/
