Colonia San José Sanctuary Prepares For October Pilgrimage Event
Pilgrims walking and running from various locations across La Pampa will arrive at the Colonia San José sanctuary on Monday, October 12, combining physical activity with religious tourism, La Arena reported. The event features a correcaminata, an initiative of a group of runners from General Pico, alongside routes for cyclists and pedestrians, accompanied by a folkloric peña, lunch, and mass.
Runners request formal reception in San José
The initiative emerged after a group of runners and walkers who frequently travel to San José requested formal reception, mirroring the welcome traditionally given to cyclists and motorcyclists, according to Sister María Esther Cartabarría. Organizers shifted the gathering to Monday to avoid conflicting with the Fiesta de las Colectividades in Colonia Barón. Participants living in distant towns can travel by vehicle to a starting point of their choice before completing the journey on foot or by running. Flanked by family members who often arrive to pick up participants, attendees will receive blessings and keepsakes upon arrival throughout the morning and early afternoon.
Religious tourism combines physical activity with local economy
The day’s schedule includes a communal lunch featuring choripanes, empanadas, sodas, and sweet pastries, followed by an afternoon folkloric gathering and a 17:00 mass. Florencia Stefanazzi, director of tourism supply development for La Pampa, noted that this marks the first time an event of this type is held, highlighting its role in combining religious tourism with physical activity to drive the local economy. Meanwhile, recent sanctuary improvements have focused on maintaining existing facilities using current revenues, with future plans including a dedicated dining hall and a fenced parking perimeter.
When and where the pilgrimage takes place?
When will the pilgrimage and running event take place?
The event is scheduled for Monday, October 12, following a change from Sunday to avoid overlapping with the Fiesta de las Colectividades in Colonia Barón.
What time does the religious service begin?
A mass will be celebrated at 17:00 for participants and visitors who wish to attend.
Where do the participating runners and walkers typically start their journey?
Many participants originate from General Pico, while others from more distant locations travel by vehicle to a chosen point along the route before continuing on foot.
Sanctuary hosts monthly pilgrimage for youth and students
The Colonia San José sanctuary also hosts regular monthly events for the community. The sanctuary will carry out a monthly pilgrimage on Tuesday, September 1, featuring a mass dedicated to young people, students, and job seekers praying for their life paths under the protection of San José Obrero, La Arena and Quemú Noticias reported. These recurring gatherings provide ongoing spaces for prayer and reflection for regional visitors.
Keep reading