The Soul of a Pilgrim: Living the Journey Within

What would it look like…

To surrender the striving, the grasping at what seems so important, in favor of what is essential and true?

To walk away from all the “to do lists” and commit to one thing: to be.

To yield your own stubborn willfulness — the very strength that has carried you through achievement — and allow the things you never planned for to unfold?

In 2024, I walked the ancient paths of Italy on pilgrimage. What transformed me most was not the cathedrals or destinations, but the surrender. The slowness. The thresholds where Jesus met me personally — reshaping how I listen, lead, and live.

But, pilgrimage is not reserved for distant landscapes. It is not confined to ancient roads. Pilgrimage is a way of walking with Christ — and it can unfold right in the middle of your ordinary, everyday life.

Jesus said:

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” — Luke 9:23

Pilgrimage is, at its heart, this daily following.

In this one-hour virtual gathering for women, we will explore foundational themes from The Soul of a Pilgrim by Christine Valters Paintner and reflect on how pilgrimage can become a daily spiritual posture of discipleship — following Christ with greater intention right where you are.

What You Can Expect

• A guided exploration of pilgrimage as a distinctly Christian way of life — learning what to carry, what to release, and how to follow Jesus more attentively.

• Insights from The Soul of a Pilgrim on surrender, and walking closely with God.

•Scripture-based reflection prompts to help you discern where Christ may be inviting you to slow down or let go.

•Practical rhythms for living as a pilgrim in everyday life — rooted in prayer, presence, and trust.

•A brief sharing about a 2027 Italy pilgrimage opportunity for those who feel called.

Why This Matters Right Now

We live in a culture that rewards speed, productivity, and constant output. Many women are carrying responsibility, leadership, family, vision, and expectation — often without space to breathe. Following Jesus was never meant to be hurried or driven by achievement. Right now, many of us are not being called to do more — but to walk more closely with Him.

This gathering is contemplative, Christ-centered, and grounded in Scripture.

No pressure. No performance.

Just an invitation to say yes to Jesus in a deeper way.

If something in you feels stirred — you are welcome to join.

Monday, March 9, 7 pm - 8 pm EST

Click here to RSVP

I run to the edges.

Escaping the life I live.

I seek to find the divine.

Is He there to greet me?

What am I feeling inside?

A hand stretched out wide.

Offering me more than myself.

Where will we go together?

What awaits ahead of us?

The thrill of the unknown.

The warm sun on my face.

An ocean breeze giving breath.

Peaceful streams giving clarity.

Flowers of many colorful blooms.

Spacious views, vast and wide.

Birds flying over in freedom.

Songbirds singing new songs.

Rugged mountains in full stance.

What happens when I arrive?

I take the hand to go.

To the edges of glory.His holy dwelling and retreat.

Can I stay here forever?

How long will this last?

Let me live in the thresholds.

I don’t want to turn back.

Pressing in I search for more.

He is there in every nook and cranny.

Inward, outward, upward, right, left.

The edges of glory await.

I say yes to the invitation.

by Emily Reed