2026 Civil Rights Pilgrimage

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why a Pilgrimage?

Pilgrimages have long been a traditional act of Christian discipleship: a way of seeking deeper relationship with God and neighbor. On this Racial Reconciliation Pilgrimage, we will journey to sites that help us bear witness to truths in the national history of the United States, including the role that churches played in various kinds of division of God’s people into categories set over or against one another. We will journey together and seek God’s will for a different road ahead, that leads towards Beloved Community, and ask what we are called to do as Christians now in this moment.

What is the “Oklahoma” theme?

We will travel to the heartland where the intersections of Indigenous history, Black history, and beyond meet in Oklahoma. We'll learn the histories of physical objects and spaces. Our group will create histories within ourselves, given to us in kindness or cruelty from people or groups in our lives, and each of us is traveling a road with Jesus and the Holy Spirit back towards God’s restoration of the whole human family. We will have daily prayer, reflection, conversation, and journaling opportunities to explore our monuments and roads.

Who can register for this Pilgrimage?

The Pilgrimage requires completing the Sacred Ground program before the pilgrimage. This work is a strong foundation for our Racial Reconciliation work. This year’s Pilgrimage is for those 21 and older.

When is the Pilgrimage?

The Pilgrimage for 2026 will leave Omaha by bus early on June 22nd, and return to Omaha late on June 28th.

What is the cost of the Pilgrimage?

The cost is $1,300 for double-occupancy and $1,700 for single-occupancy. Included in the cost is round trip bus transportation from Omaha, admission fees, 3 star hotel accommodations, most meals (breakfasts provided by hotels) and program materials. Nine meals will be provided and five will need to be covered by participants. The Diocese of Nebraska is subsidizing this trip and scholarship funds will be available. Parish communities may also be able to support those with financial need.

Scholarship Availability – For scholarships, the goal is for each participant to contribute at least 1/3rd of the cost of the trip ($500), with diocesan assistance helping with the remainder; however, we do not want cost to be a barrier to this trip for any participant, and will work on a needs basis with each person.

When are funds due?

A non-refundable deposit of $250 is due with registration by March 1, 2026. The remaining balance of the trip cost is due by April 22, 2026. Space is limited so early registration is highly encouraged.

How will health needs be handled?

Out of respect for health conditions of participants and because of the close quarters of bus traveling and the impact that a contagious disease would have in risking cancellations of portions of it, participants are encouraged to be up-to-date on their vaccinations and mask as needed.

Want to learn more about Sacred Ground?

Visit our Sacred Ground webpage.