A Capuchin Presence in the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage
This summer, thousands across the country participated in the historic National Eucharistic Pilgrimage. The journey carried the Eucharist from Indianapolis to Los Angeles, passing through towns, cities, and coastlines. At every stop, the focus was simple and powerful: to bring the presence of Christ into the streets and into the lives of the people.
Among those who accompanied the pilgrims was our very own Fr. Christopher Iwancio, OFM Cap. He served as a chaplain for a portion of the pilgrimage, offering confessions, spiritual guidance, and daily Mass. He was also present for the opening Mass in Indianapolis, where the pilgrimage officially began in May.
In an interview with Our Sunday Visitor, Fr. Christopher reflected on the deeper meaning of the journey: “This is what the hope of the Eucharist brings us. We are still walking with Christ. We’re not walking alone in our troubles and difficulties. God is with us.”
The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage is part of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ National Eucharistic Revival. This summer marks the culmination of the three-year initiative, which began in 2022 to renew belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The pilgrimage and the upcoming National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis represent the height of this nationwide movement to bring Christ out into the world through public witness.
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To read more about Fr. Christopher’s reflections and role in the pilgrimage, visit the following articles:
• Catholic News Agency: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/264679/what-it-s-like-to-be-a-chaplain-on-the-road-with-the-body-of-christ
• National Catholic Register: https://www.ncregister.com/cna/cna-june-12-2025-chaplains-national-eucharistic-pilgrimage
• Catholic Star Herald / OSV News: https://catholicstarherald.org/perpetual-pilgrims-start-out-across-u-s-walking-with-love-and-truth-to-share-the-gospel
