Mass at 4:00 PM (optional) and St James Day Gathering & Potluck @ 5:00-7:30 PM
This is a limited attendance event so register early!
St James' Day is the perfect excuse to gather! While our celebration may be milder than those on the streets of Santiago, it will be fun and will include:
- What is St James' Day and why do we celebrate it? - by our own Vernon Myer
- Sharing of memories of arriving in Santiago
- Shell Ceremony for Pilgrims departing on their Camino
- Happy Hour Potluck
Everyone is invited to this celebration and to share the excitement of new pilgrims setting off on their Camino and wish them Buen Camino. We look forward to seeing
- Pilgrims participating in the shell ceremony and sharing their anticipation and excitement with us
- Pilgrims who made their Camino this year sharing memories and giving support and information to outbound pilgrims
- Family & friends sharing in the wonder of the Camino and wishing their pilgrims a safe trip
- Pilgrims who made Camino's in the past reconnecting with our chapter, sharing memories, experiences, and encouragement with all
- Pilgrims considering a future Camino who are looking for information
- We are looking forward to seeing YOU!
What is a Shell Ceremony?
During the Middle Ages pilgrims were blessed before setting off on their journey so they may seek truth, abandon old habits, and open themselves to new experiences. Following in this ancient tradition, the Valley of the Sun Chapter is pleased to confer a group blessing and token upon those who will be walking the Camino this year.
This celebration coincides with an evening mass at the Franciscan Renewal Center at 4:00PM and our St James Gathering and Potluck will follow in Frances Room at 5:00PM. There is also a small chapel for reflection near the event space if you want to explore and reflect.
Departing pilgrims - include in the comments section which Camino you are walking, and when you will leave to ensure we have sufficient tokens available for the Shell Ceremony. Please bring your family/support to share in this event.
All our activities are planned & led by volunteers. Donations (donativos) are appreciated and support our ongoing chapter activities, including air conditioned room rental for this facility and each Shell Ceremony. Look for the orange donative containers.
Vernon makes history and religion fun with his enthusiasm for all things pilgrimage and Camino de Santiago. He has extensive theological studies and is a former pastor and a 2021 pilgrim! He will share some insights on pilgrimages and St. James.
Bring dish to share and your own vino/beverage if you are able. (We will provide water.) If attending mass you can bring your food to the Anthony Room beforehand.
If you have finished your camino, please bring your Camino Credentials/Passport for a final stamp from our Valley of the Sun chapter.
If going to mass at 4:00, park anywhere and from the Conventual Church of our Lady of Angels exit continue walking east to the Frances Room.
St James Day & Shell Ceremony Only: Upon turning into the center take a RIGHT and go to the UNPAVED EVENT PARKING LOT closest to the Frances Room.
We will gather in the Frances Room and have food in the Anthony Room. See this map.