What is the
Christ at the Border Just Peace Pilgrimage?
This is a seven-to-eight-day tour (including travel time to South Texas) at the United States-Mexico border where we will seek to better understand the realities and implications of migration, including the reasons causing it and how churches or communities of faith are responding to it. We will join them in this work through service projects and church visits.
This pilgrimage is organized and facilitated by Mennonite Mission Network and is part of our commitment to anti-racism work and exploring how our faith calls us to stand against injustice and with the oppressed. Mission Network staff will travel with the pilgrimage group to manage details and logistics.
Where does this tour visit?
This pilgrimage is based in South Texas, in the Rio Grande Valley and is planned and developed in consultation with hosting partners in South Texas.
This is an opportunity to build relationships with people who have lived in South Texas for many years and are willing to share their personal stories.
When possible, we will frequent minority owned restaurants and businesses.
What size are the groups and how do I sign up?
The group size is 10-20, including the Mission Network facilitator. While the groups initially form informally, eventually we will need you to fill out a short registration form.
What is the cost of the tour and what does it cover?
The tour cost is $700 per person which covers local transportation, lodging (double occupancy), meals, museums and speakers. Travel to and from south Texas is at your own expense. Preferred airports to use in the Rio Grande Valley are Brownsville, McAllen or Harlingen.
Are children allowed on the
pilgrimage?
There are no specific age limits, but we ask you to consider whether the content of the trip will be age appropriate for young children, and whether service projects and speakers will be engaging for those younger than middle school age. Anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.
How physically demanding is the trip?
Be prepared for a lot of walking and climbing in and out of vans. In addition, depending on the time of the year, it can be quite hot and humid in the south and you will need to pay attention to staying hydrated.
How should I prepare, both before and during, to
participate in this pilgrimage?
Your Mission Network facilitator will initiate a time to meet with your group before the trip to answer questions, review the itinerary, address any concerns. We will provide your group with orientation materials including resources before the trip, and a detailed schedule and journal materials for use during and after the trip.
During the trip, we will have regular check-ins. This will be a time to reflect on what we have experienced and learned. From our shared experiences we gain new insights, and collectively, we are enriched by each other’s perspectives.
What should I bring?
- Comfortable shoes or sandals—we will do a fair amount of walking.
- Casual clothes, clothes appropriate for public venues like non-profit agencies, one dressy casual outfit for church
- Water bottle
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
- A light rain jacket, poncho, or umbrella
Who do I contact if I have more questions/concerns?
For all questions related to the tour, contact
Stephanie Weaver.
