Pilgrimage to Turkey with Canon Christopher Smith

Pilgrimage to Turkey with Canon Christopher Smith

by | Feb 4, 2026 | Parish Life | 0 comments

Walk Where the Early Church Walked: A Parish Pilgrimage to Turkey with Our Pastor

Have you ever read the Acts of the Apostles or prayed the Nicene Creed and wondered what it would be like to stand in the very places where the early Church took root?

In June 2027, our pastor, Canon Christopher Smith, will lead a pilgrimage to Turkey, inviting us to step into the landscape of Scripture, councils, martyrs, and saints. This is more than a tour—it’s a prayerful journey designed to deepen faith, friendship, and understanding of who we are as Catholics.

Why Turkey?

Turkey is home to some of the most important sites in Christian history. On this pilgrimage, parishioners will visit:

  • Ephesus, where St. Paul preached and where tradition holds the Blessed Virgin Mary spent her final years

  • The House of the Virgin Mary, a place of quiet prayer and profound devotion

  • Nicaea, where the Nicene Creed—professed at Mass every Sunday—was first proclaimed

  • Istanbul (ancient Constantinople), a crossroads of Christianity, culture, and history

These are not just names on a page. They are places where the faith was lived, defended, and handed on—often at great cost.

A Pilgrimage, Not a Vacation

What sets this journey apart is its spiritual focus. Daily Mass, prayer, Scripture reflection, and thoughtful teaching will be woven throughout the trip. Canon Smith’s pastoral leadership and love for Church history will help bring each site to life, connecting what we see to what we believe.

You’ll travel alongside fellow parishioners, sharing meals, prayer, conversation, and unforgettable moments—forming bonds that often last long after the pilgrimage ends.

Who Is This For?

This pilgrimage is ideal for:

  • Parishioners longing to go deeper in their faith

  • Those curious about early Christianity and Church history

  • Anyone seeking a meaningful, guided spiritual journey rather than a rushed sightseeing trip

No advanced knowledge is required—just an open heart and a willingness to walk where generations of Christians have gone before us.

Learn More & Take the Next Step

Details about the itinerary, dates, pricing, and registration are available through St. Charles Pilgrimages. If you’ve ever felt the nudge to make a pilgrimage, this may be that invitation—shared with your pastor and your parish family.

👉 Learn more and read the full pilgrimage details here:
St. Charles Pilgrimages – Canon Christopher Smith Pilgrimage to Turkey