The longest pilgrimage in Poland set off from Szczecin

On Tuesday morning, a group of pilgrims set off from the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima in the Osiedle Słoneczne district of Szczecin, heading to Jasna Góra. This is the next stage of the longest walking pilgrimage in Poland. The first participants set off a few days ago from the seaside town of Pustków. In Szczecin, more people joined, carrying in their hearts personal intentions, hopes, and a spiritual need to travel.

Before the pilgrims continued their journey, they attended Holy Mass presided over by the Metropolitan of Szczecin-Kamień, Archbishop Wiesław Śmigiel.

"Pilgrimage is not only a physical endeavor, but above all a journey of the heart. It is an experience that opens one to God and others. Go with trust. Let your hearts beat in rhythm with prayer," he told those gathered.

Among the pilgrims is Mrs. Anetta from Ulikowo near Stargard.

"I'm walking from Pustków. I want to walk to Jasna Góra, the entire route, of course," she says with conviction. "This is my sixth pilgrimage. I've been training, walking seven or eight kilometers. But I've also been preparing spiritually. I believe that God will give me strength, although yesterday I had a crisis. It wasn't my legs, but sciatica that hit me, so I had to rest for a while. But today I'm feeling better, and I'm continuing with hope."

She took a few essentials with her on the trip.

"I have a rosary, a pilgrimage hymnal, water, a raincoat," he lists. "And, of course, a bubble needle. The weather is good, but you know you have to be ready for anything. I'm going with the intention of seeking priestly vocations, because there really aren't many of them. But I also ask God for the gifts of the Holy Spirit for my parish priest, Father Jarosław. And greetings to all my parishioners from Ulików and Pęzino. I will pray for you."

More on this topic in "Kurier Szczeciński" and eKurier of July 30, 2025.

(dg)