I am overwhelmed by the number of signups - over 25! Which is exciting but will require more organization than normal so stick with me till the end of this email:
Due to the 6:30 mass at the Cathedral we will not start walking until after Mass - lets say 8:00. We will likely be done by 1:00pm.
If at all possible please work out a way to leave a car at both locations - but if you need to be carried back to the Cathedral after parking at the mission we will do that. You will need to be parked and ready to go by 6:00am You must email us ASAP to let us know you require a ride. We would hope that after we are finished walking you will offer fellow walkers rides back to the Cathedral.
If you are leaving a car at the Mission please park in this area - without impeding retail sales. Place a piece of paper with the word PILGRIM on your dashboard. Your will only picked up if you are in this area.
Parking at the Cathedral should be in the far SW corner of their lot or on the street - no parking fees on the weekend. Please put a piece of paper with the word PILGRIM on your dashboard.
We will need volunteers to pick people up at the Mission at 6:00am and bring them to the Cathedral. Please email us ASAP if you volunteer for this duty - be sure and include the capacity of your vehicle and your phone number. Once we have a count of pilgrims needing a ride I will contact you no later than the 19th if you are needed.
English Mass will start at the Cathedral at 6:30. The pastor knows we will be there - wear your packs and bring your poles - our accessories are expected. We will try to sit together under the St. James stained glass window. Please be as generous as you can be when the colleciton plate goes around - the Cathedral's parish is one of the poorest in Southern Arizona and they provide great service to our poor.
The Cathedral encourages the wearing of masks inside the Church but the Mission requires you to be masked to enter the buildings so be prepared.
Speaking of being prepared - be sure and bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen and anything else you may need to walk 10 miles. We will have a rest break at the mid-point where we will have a cooler of cool water and snacks.
As in the past there will be a donativo box for the Mission's school in case you want to contribute.
As you walk try to work out a plan for us having a post-walk cerebration - we will have a couple of hours to get that figured out and we look forward to hearing the ideas and enjoy the resolution.
The infamous ladders photo in the November newsletter caused more confusion than clarification. Most of the route is flat and paved (the bicycle loop) but we do have this culvert and these ladders to traverse. But do not be afraid - you will not be alone, we will help and encourage.
So that is it! We are dedicating this pilgrimage to GRATITUDE. So gather your thoughts and walk with us on the 20th! Contact us with any questions
