Is the Walk to Emmaus for all Christians?
Yes! While the Walk to Emmaus program is operated under the umbrella of the United Methodist Church, all Christians are welcome to attend.
I’m already very involved in my church. What does the Walk to Emmaus offer me?
Walk participation allows you to be involved on a broadermlevel, connecting with other Christians who are also building the community for Christ.
I’m not very involved with my home church. Is the Walk to Emmaus right for me?
Absolutely! Walks allow you to connect with other Christians
from different denominations for the common and broader goal of enriching your personal faith and connection.
What if I don’t have a Sponsor?
Ask your home church clergy for assistance in identifying a
sponsor or contact the Coastal Bend Emmaus Community.
• How much walking is involved?
The “Walk to Emmaus” refers to the Bible Gospel of Luke 24:
13-35, when Jesus walks alongside two disciples following his resurrection. As
a Pilgrim, you only walk from the conference facilities to the dormitory next
door for example. Golf carts, drivers and other assistance is available if you
have mobility issues.
How many people will attend a Walk?
Emmaus Walks are designed to serve up to 36 Pilgrims at a time, in addition to Walk leaders, table leaders and volunteer support teams.
Are Walks Coeducational?
No. Separate Walks to Emmaus are provided for men and women
pilgrims.
Are Walks Activities Confidential?
Yes. Walk team members often share deeply personal aspects
of their spiritual lives. Walk participants are expected to keep all
information shared during the weekend confidential. To maintain this
confidentiality, taking, sharing and posting photos and/or videos of Walk
activities are not allowed.
Where are the retreats?
Walk retreats are typical held at church camps or religious retreat centers. One typical facility for Coastal Bend Emmaus Walks is the Our Lady of Corpus Christi Queen of Peace facility.
Will I be asked to commit to another church or spiritual organization, pray out loud or answer an altar call?
Walk activities are personal. Your involvement in specific
Walk activities is voluntary, whether that’s for worship, prayer or group
discussion.
What if I don’t currently attend church?
The Walk to Emmaus is primarily designed for individuals who are active in their home churches. If you’re not currently affiliated with a local church, contact the Coastal Bend Emmaus leadership to explore Walk participation options.
What if I’m not yet 18 years old?
The Coastal Bend Emmaus community is currently reviving the Chrysalis initiative, for those in high school. For more information contact our Chrysalis liaison, Lynda Herndon at lynda362@aol.com.
What happens after my Walk?
The Coastal Bend has one of the longest-serving Emmaus
communities in the country, made up of Pilgrims who have already completedtheir Walk. These individuals you’ll encounter throughout the region stayinvolved in Emmaus through small reunion groups, community gatherings and supporting future Walks to Emmaus. After your Walk, you’ll be invited to participate in these activities in addition to serving your home church. You may be surprised to learn how many of your friends and neighbors have also taken a Walk.
Do I need to bring food?
All your meals and snacks are provided. Coffee, tea, water
and sodas are available throughout the weekend. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed during Walk activities or at the retreat center. You’ll have the opportunity to advise the cook team of any serious food allergies.
Should I bring a Bible or other reading material?
You’re invited to bring a favorite Bible, if you have one.
All other materials will be provided.
Is smoking permitted?
Individuals who smoke will have opportunities to take
frequent breaks outside. There’s no smoking inside retreat facilities.
Do I need to bring bedding?
Retreat center sleeping rooms have twin beds to accommodate two roommates each with shower and lavatory facilities throughout the dormitory. Bring twin sheets, a pillow and blanket, or sleeping bag, if you prefer. Also bring a bath towel.
What should I wear?
Emmaus retreats are casual. Plan to bring comfortable clothes and shoes. You won’t need “church or formal” attire.
Is there WIFI?
Walk weekends are structured to provide a complete break from your normal routine and daily stresses so you can fully focus your time and attention to your faith. You won’t need WIFI connections. In order to fully concentrate on Walk activities, Pilgrims are advised to leave their phones, tablets, other electronic devices and even watches at home with their family or sponsors. You won’t even need an alarm clock. Walk staff will wake you up at the appropriate time each day.
What if there’s an emergency?
Walk leaders and your sponsor will be able to connect on your behalf throughout the weekend. If there’s a family emergency or other critical issue, they will reach you. For routine matters, your sponsor will be asked to assist, so you can fully focus on this 72-hour respite.
Can I take and post photos?
The highly individual and spiritual nature of the Walk experience is not compatible with current social media practices. Out of respect for the process, and the privacy of your fellow Pilgrims, no cameras, cell-phone cameras, photo or video equipment is allowed during Walk activities. Walk leaders will provide one group photo at the end of the weekend.
Are there “secrets” surrounding Walk activities?
There are no secrets. There are wonderful surprises waiting for pilgrims willing to participate fully in the weekend. Walk speakers are often sharing very personal and private details of their lives. Walk participants are asked to maintain the confidentiality of those shared life stories.
