Frequently Asked Questions

+ What is a pilgrimage?

A pilgrimage is a spirit led, reflective journey, which allows us to walk in trust and appreciation of what is happening in and around us. By walking with attention to how the stories of this location and the people who live there, connect with our story, we develop a sense of the sacredness of a place.

You can hear Regina Roman speak more about the nature of pilgrimage on the podcast "All Things Contemplative".

+ How is a pilgrimage different from a tour or other travel?

When we travel as a tourist, we learn from the sites and learn the culture of a place, but we hurry through the areas as if they are attractions rather than spots of insight and meaning. As a pilgrim, we open ourselves with an inner space to let the stories and meaning of the sites seep into our being. We may learn some deeper wisdom along with the traditional stories of a place, have some quiet reflective time at a site, or have the opportunity to participate in a local ritual such as touching a reliquary of a saint.

One can be a tourist on a pilgrimage and a pilgrim on a tour. The attention and space and time given are the internal markers that make the difference.

+ How do I prepare for a pilgrimage?

Prior to the trip, it is suggested that you read about the history, culture, and geography of the area. Studying religious or spiritual texts as well as writings from spiritual leaders from that land or experience will give you a deeper understanding of how the land speaks to many.

As this is an intentional journey, we recommend you consider some of these questions. What leads you to this experience? What calls you to a pilgrimage in Egypt? What is your desire for this trip – a desire is an outer interest such as “seeing the pyramids.” What is your wish – a wish is for an inner change such as to be more open to other cultures.

Some find writing in a journal helpful as they list questions, insights and hopes. Read books from the suggested reading list. Invite a friend to be a prayer partner to pray for you while you are on the pilgrimage.

Start walking several times a week so you are accustomed to being on your feet.

+ Do I need a passport?

You will need a current passport, which will not expire for at least 6 months after your return home. I f you are applying, remember it usually takes 5 weeks for the passport to be sent to you. Visas are required; information will be sent to you regarding the application for a visa with your registration packet.

+ What can I expect from Journey with Purpose?

The pilgrimage has been planned to allow you entry to many sacred sites that may not always be available for tourists. The journey has also been designed to allow you to hear from expert resource guides, to meet with spiritual and religious leaders and interact with native people. Resource materials unique to this particular pilgrimage will be available. Leaders who have traveled in the area, some of whom are very familiar with the landscape, will guide you and be available throughout the journey. The guides are familiar with the spiritual context of Egypt and with contemplative practices. They are trained in First Aid and CPR and are sensitive to the needs of individuals. Travel arrangements have been made for hotels, food, transportation and tips. Pilgrims are responsible for personal expenses and an open heart and mind.

+ What can I expect from the community?

Since we travel as a mindful service community, each member is invited to offer a service to the community. The service is simple but important. This may include “keeper of the earth”- picks up any trash we may have left behind or “photographer” – records the journey through the lens of the camera. We travel as individual pilgrims, but the journey is always supported in the larger context of the community.

+ Where do we stay?

We stay at four or five - star hotels allowing you the comforts of good rest, showers and delicious morning and evening meals. The monastery at St. Catherine’s provides comfortable rooms with private showers and toilet facilities. In the desert, we camp under the open stars, a five-billion-star accommodation! Sleeping bags will be provided.

+ What type of food will we eat?

Foods in the hotels are typical of the delectable buffets you find at home but are supplemented with Egyptian cuisine such as pita bread and olives. In the desert, the Bedouins will prepare simple and healthy meals for us – soup, eggs, chicken, rice, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers and freshly baked bread. Plan to drink lots of bottled water, which will be provided for you.

+ What do I pack? What should I wear?

The desert is hot during the day, as the sun is more intense in this area. Covering your arms and legs at least with sunscreen, but also with lightweight long sleeves and pants or skirts is helpful. The evenings will be cool so be prepared with a fleece or feather jacket and warm pants, and socks. It may be chilly in the desert in the evenings. Comfortable sturdy walking shoes and/or hiking boots are necessary for the climb up Mt. Sinai. Sandals can be worn in other areas including the monasteries and mosques where we will be required to remove our shoes before we enter. Pack dress that is casual, comfortable and easy to launder. You will find your clothes can be hand washed in the sink and will dry quickly in this dry environment. Pack sunscreen, medications, sunglasses, camera, and a journal. A full packing list will be provided.

+ What medical information do I need with me?

Carry copies of prescriptions, including for eyeglasses, with you. Fill your prescriptions and bring them along. Your doctor may recommend that you bring an antibiotic as a precaution. As this trip requires walking and travel in the heat, we suggest you check with your doctor ahead of time about any other advice he or she may offer. Some like to bring a copy of medical insurance information. We also recommend you bring your doctor’s name and phone number with you.

+ What vaccinations do I need?

Proof of a COVID vaccination is required.

Although not required, we recommend for your own safety that you are current with tetanus and Hepatitis A and B vaccinations.

+ What do I need to camp in the desert?

Sunscreen, a small roll of toilet paper, hand wipes, small baggies, a flashlight, a small pillow or case to stuff a few sweaters in and an open heart will be needed. You will be treated to the most spectacular view of the stars you have ever imagined!

I found doggie bags to be helpful in disposing of personal trash.

+ What safeguards are in place?

The leaders working with us in Egypt have many years of experience and know the desert environment very well. The guides are trained in First Aid and CPR. Safety will always be of paramount concern.