When is Pilgrimage?
The upcoming Pilgrimage retreat will be March 15–17, 2024. Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. on Friday evening. The retreat ends at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Where is Pilgrimage?
Pilgrimage is held at Camp Bethel, which is located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains approximately half an hour northeast of Roanoke, Virginia. The address is 328 Bethel Road, Fincastle, VA 24090.
What do I need to bring?
You will need to bring bedding or a sleeping bag and pillow, personal items, a towel and washcloth, your Bible, a pen, and a willingness to learn and share with others. Dress is casual the entire weekend.
Is there any free time?
The Pilgrimage weekend is filled with presentations, small groups, fun times, inspiring worship services, and much more. Some free time is also included to allow participants to explore Camp Bethel, play a game of basketball, take a nap, or relax and talk with other participants.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
Participants sleep in either Heritage Lodge or the surrounding cabins. Sleeping arrangements are dormitory-style with men and women separated. Heritage Lodge has four large bedrooms, each one with seven beds and its own bathroom and showers. For pictures, visit www.campbethelvirginia.org/groups.html.
What if I have special needs?
Heritage Lodge is handicap accessible, and we can accommodate many special needs, whether dietary or physical. Make sure to list any needs on the registration form.
Are cell phones allowed?
Cell service can be spotty at Camp Bethel, depending on the provider. Cell phones are allowed during the weekend, but we encourage participants to put them away and focus on the blessings that God has for them.
If I've attended Pilgrimage before, can I come again?
Space is limited and over 600 people have attended Pilgrimage, so, of course, not everyone can come at the same time. However, our Christian journeys continue and a person may be at a very different place now than he or she was twenty or ten years ago... or even one year ago. Anytime someone feels that God is calling them to come, he or she should come!
What do I need to wear?
Dress throughout the weekend is casual. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear.
Do I have to be Brethren to attend?
No. Pilgrimage was started and continues to be supported by the Virlina District of the Church of the Brethren and people from more than 50 congregations in that district have attended as well as from several other districts. However, participants have also come from numerous other denominations. All are welcome.
Is it okay to arrive late or leave early?
The nature of this retreat requires your participation in the entire weekend, so we ask that everyone make arrangements to be there from 6:30 p.m. on Friday until 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.
How much does it cost to attend Pilgrimage?
The cost of the weekend is $125.00, with a $25.00 non-refundable deposit due at registration and then the remaining $100.00 due at check-in for the retreat. Scholarships are available and should be requested with the registration.
Can I come with relatives?
Absolutely! This is a wonderful experience, and it is great to share that experience with a spouse, parent, sibling, or child over the age of 18.
Who is on the team for Pilgrimage 2024?
Team Leaders
Greg Broyles – Germantown Brick Church of the Brethren
Dawn Clemons – Ridge View Baptist Church
Stephanie Connelly – New Covenant Church of the Brethren
Misty Flinchum – New Covenant Christian
Ron Flora – Shelton Church of the Brethren
Terry Harris – Topeco Church of the Brethren
Rachel Langston – New Covenant Church of the Brethren
Vicky Lumpp – Cedar Bluff Church of the Brethren
Michael Ranson – First Church of the Brethren
Paul Staufer – Summerdean Church of the Brethren
Music Coordinator
Megan Forbes – MAPS Global
Team Coordinator
Karen Haynes – Fraternity Church of the Brethren
Retreat Coordinator
Sarah Stultz – Summerdean Church of the Brethren
Multimedia Coordinator
Scott Yingling – Oak Grove Church of the Brethren