Pilgrimage

During the fall of 2022, River Road Church celebrated the life and ministry of our church. So many people have taught, studied, worshiped, served, and given through our church during our 75-year history. All that we do is built on this strong foundation laid by everyday pilgrims, for whom we give thanks. It is our watch now. Putting focus on our own development and ministry participation will now allow us to open ourselves to how God can and will work in our lives and through us for the world. To do this, we are going to dig into what it means to be everyday pilgrims, seeking after Christ in all parts of life. This can involve specific travels or events, or it can focus on our day by day process of following Christ.

For many religious traditions, the experience of pilgrimage holds great significance. Pilgrimage involves not only a physical journey to a destination, but also a spiritual journey within oneself. As Christians, we engage in an ongoing journey of faith development that calls us toward becoming more Christlike every day. We each embark on our own Christian pilgrimage, but we do not walk alone. We follow in the footsteps of the saints who have gone before us, are kept company by the pilgrims who travel with us, even as we pave the way for those who come behind us.

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Upcoming Opportunities:

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Thoughtful Faith Community

Thoughtful Faith Community on Wednesdays

  • January 11, 2023: Everyday Pilgrimage led by Rev. Dr. Mike Clingenpeel
  • January 18, 2023: Experiences on the Way led by Bryn Bagby-Taylor
  • January 25, February 1, 8, 2023: Baptist Pilgrimage: How do we live from our heritage? led by Rev. Dr. Bert Browning and Rev. Dr. Bill Tuck
  • February 15, 2023: Virginia Baptist Pilgrim Waymakers led by Rev. Dr. Nathan Taylor
  • March 1 & 29, 2023: Table Dialogue—An Opportunity to Listen, Share, & Learn
  • March 8, 2023: Serving is Part of our Journey Episode 1: Missions with FeedMore/Meals on Wheels, Rise Against Hunger, and CrossOver Healthcare Ministry
  • March 15, 2023: Serving is Part of our Journey Episode 2: Missions with Disaster Response
  • March 22, 2023:Serving is Part of our Journey Episode 3: Missions with Prison Ministry Alongside Ministry Partners
  • April 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10, 2023: Our Journey With the Bible led by Rev. Dr. Ron Crawford
  • May 17, 2023: A Pilgrimage Celebration and Music by the River Road Camerata
Programs

March 5, 2023: Pursuing Personal Pilgrimage, Lunch in the Assembly Room

Taizé Worship Services in the Sanctuary Chancel

March 5, 2023
April 2, 2023
May 21, 2023

Retreats

February 17-19, 2023: Women’s Retreat at Eagle Eyrie
March 11, 2023: Everyday Pilgrim: Intentional Focus Day Retreat
May 4-7, 2023: Hiking Pilgrimage in Virginia’s Mountains
September 29-October 1, 2023: Exploring our Journeys with God: A Pilgrimage Weekend—Men’s Retreat at Camp Alkulana

Hikes

Spring Hikes—enjoy the exercise, the time, and conversations with others from River Road, while being outside enjoying God’s creation. It’s pretty great. If you haven’t been on a hike with us and have been hoping to do so, try to attend at least one walk with us.

  • March 19, 2023: Pocahontas State Park
  • May 23, 2023: Bear Creek Lake State Park in Cumberland [RESCHEDULED]
  • TBA: Voorhees Nature Preserve Trail, Colonial Beach, VA

Resources for Pilgrimage Growth & Practice

Printable Reading List

Suggested Lenten Devotional – Henri Nouwen’s Show Me The Way

  • Readings for each day of Lent. You can order previously loved copies online from a great number of retailers or purchase new from your preferred book seller. If you need assistance getting a copy, please call Rev. Anna Miller in the church office

Online Resources:

Pilgrim Stories that Shape Us:

Thoughtful Faith Community:

October 15, 2023 — Thoughtful Faith Community

October 15, 2023 — Thoughtful Faith Community

Thoughtful Faith CommunitySunday, October 15, 20234:00-7:00 p.m. This week adults, youth, and children (4 and up) will remain in the Fellowship Hall for our community night. Together we will write notes to homebound members and college students, and pack care packages...

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October 8, 2023 — Thoughtful Faith Community

October 8, 2023 — Thoughtful Faith Community

Thoughtful Faith CommunitySunday, October 8, 20234:00-7:00 p.m. We have a fun program this week led by young adults, Emma Phelps and Matt Rooney, discussing Taylor Swift and how she has fostered a deep sense of community among many generations and cultures. Leaning...

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October 1, 2023 — Thoughtful Faith Community

October 1, 2023 — Thoughtful Faith Community

Thoughtful Faith CommunitySunday, October 1, 20234:00-7:00 p.m. Our first TFC night on September 17 was a success with over 100 people in attendance! We hope to keep up the momentum. Be sure to share your excitement for TFC nights with your friends, classes, and...

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