Let's try again!
Last spring our attempt at this walking pilgrimage was rained out, so lets try again!
Join us for a 23 mile walking pilgrimage from Rockaway to Paterson. During this 150th parish anniversary year and also this great Jubilee year for the universal church, we will go on pilgrimage together to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
This pilgrimage is not for everyone and only those that feel healthy and capable should participate. All those that participate will need to complete a waiver. Any minor that wishes to participate will need to be accompanied by an parent or guardian.
The path for this pilgrimage will be as much as possible on local side roads. No street closures will happen and all participants will need to observe local laws and use good safety procedures.
Please see the schedule and FAQ below for additional details. Please be sure to also complete the registration information below.
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Jubilee Year 2025 Walking Pilgrimage
Saturday, November 1st, 2025
23 miles
Start:St. Cecilia Church
90 Church St.
Rockaway, NJ
- 7:00 am morning prayer
Finish:Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
381 Grand St
Paterson, NJ
- Approx. times and distance
- 23 miles Approx. 10 hours
- Arrival by 6:30 pm
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Who can participate?
This special event is open to all people who feel physically capable. It is a long walk, so be sure to use good judgement of your own abilities and needs. Minors can participate as long as a parent or guardian is present on the walk too.
What are the costs?
There is no fee!
How will we get home from Paterson?
Everyone is responsible for their own transportation home from the Cathedral or any other stop along the way. Ride sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are probably the best options. It is about a $20 Uber ride from Paterson to Rockaway.
What if I start but can't finish the walk?
No problem at all. Do what you can and what you are comfortable doing. There will be two stops along the way that anyone who wishes to stop can most certainly do that. Even along the road if you become physically unable to continue we will stop as a group to make sure we can arrange a ride home for you. No one will be left alone, either along the route or at any of the stops. Do not push yourself beyond your limits!
Can I join the group later in the walk and finish at the Cathedral?
Sure! If you don't feel comfortable doing the whole walk, but want to finish with the group, that is great. You will have to coordinate to meet up with the group at the right place and time.
What should I bring for the walk?
The old scout motto, "always be prepared", is helpful. Travel light. Maybe a light backpack with some water, snacks, and a hat or jacket. Use your best judgement, its a long walk to carry a lot of stuff.
What route will we be taking?
We will be avoiding all highways and major roadways. We will use, as much as possible, sidewalks and public walkways. We will not be closing or blocking traffic at any time and we will obey all local laws as we travel.
Will there be breaks?
Yes! We will try our best to walk together as a group and make periodic stops along the way. Lunch will be at local eateries that we pass by. The group can make decisions about pace and breaks as we collectively see fit. We are in this together!
If you have any other questions, please contact Jim Clancy at StCecilia.FaithFormation@gmail.com
