Families urged to forget beach vacation and try a religious one

Published: 2004-04-01

ARLINGTON, Va. (CNS) -- As the end of the school year nears, eyes begin to turn toward the freedom of summer and with that the family vacation. Children are hoping for a trip to Disney World and adults lean toward a relaxing trip to the beach. But families who choose a retreat or pilgrimage over roller coasters and sunbathing have a chance to strengthen their unity and grow spiritually, according to those who organize religious tours. "You don't have to take a plane to go on pilgrimage," said Dan Callahan, father of 10 children and owner of JMJ Tours based in Virginia. Most family pilgrimages are to national sites because of the expense of an entire family traveling together internationally, Callahan said. He also pointed out the difference between a pilgrimage and a retreat. "A pilgrimage is a spiritual journey to a holy place," Callahan told the Arlington Catholic Herald, newspaper of the Arlington Diocese. "It is an escape from day-to-day life to a place of significance. It reminds us we have no fixed place on earth. We are on a heavenly journey."

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