33 Miles to Palm Sunday

Prepare Your Body

Packing Tips

33 miles demands respect. Pack light, pack smart, and pack with purpose.

The difference between a transformative pilgrimage and a miserable ordeal often comes down to preparation. These are the essentials — nothing more, nothing less.

Expect a Wide Temperature Swing

North Texas in late March can drop into the 30s overnight and climb into the 70s by afternoon. Dress in removable layers — warm enough for a cold midnight start, light enough for a warm afternoon finish.

Check the Forecast — Bring Rain Gear

If rain is in the forecast, a waterproof jacket and pack cover are non-negotiable. Wet gear and wet feet over 33 miles can end a pilgrimage early. Don't gamble on the weather.

Footwear & Feet

  • ✝Broken-in trail shoes or hiking boots — never new shoes on pilgrimage day
  • ✝Moisture-wicking wool or synthetic socks (bring 2 pairs)
  • ✝Blister prevention tape or moleskin — apply before you feel a hot spot
  • ✝Sandals or camp shoes for rest stops

Clothing & Weather Layers

  • ✝Moisture-wicking base layer — avoid cotton, which holds sweat and chills you
  • ✝Warm mid-layer (fleece or insulated jacket) for cold pre-dawn and overnight temperatures
  • ✝Lightweight packable shell that can be stowed in your pack as the day warms up
  • ✝Sun hat and sunglasses for afternoon miles — North Texas sun in March can be intense
  • ✝Gloves and a warm hat for the cold morning start — temperatures can dip into the 30s overnight

Weather Preparedness

  • ✝Check the forecast before you leave — North Texas spring weather can swing 40°F between night and day
  • ✝Dress in layers you can add or remove: cold at midnight, warm by noon, cold again at camp
  • ✝Rain gear is essential if rain is in the forecast — a waterproof jacket and pack cover can save your pilgrimage
  • ✝Waterproof or water-resistant footwear is strongly recommended if wet conditions are expected
  • ✝Wet cotton is dangerous — if rain is likely, leave all cotton clothing at home
  • ✝Even on clear days, wind on the open plains can make temperatures feel much colder — a wind shell is always worth carrying

Hydration & Nutrition

  • ✝Hydration pack or two 1-liter water bottles (water stops provided on route)
  • ✝High-calorie snacks: nuts, jerky, energy bars, dried fruit
  • ✝Electrolyte packets or tablets — critical for a 33-mile walk
  • ✝Small amount of cash for optional food stops

Faith & Prayer

  • ✝Rosary — walk and pray
  • ✝Small prayer book or printed intentions
  • ✝Pilgrim credential or journal

First Aid & Essentials

  • ✝Personal medications and any required medical items
  • ✝Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for muscle pain
  • ✝Headlamp with fresh batteries (for pre-dawn start)
  • ✝Charged phone with emergency contacts saved
  • ✝Sunscreen SPF 50+

What to Leave Behind

Every extra pound is a burden you carry for 33 miles. Leave behind anything that is not essential. The pilgrimage will strip away the unnecessary — let your pack do the same.

Prepared. Ready. Called.

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Pray Without Ceasing

Walk in His Footsteps

Sacred Heart of Jesus — traditional Catholic devotional painting

Sacred Heart of Jesus

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Jesus carrying the cross — traditional Catholic devotional painting

The Way of the Cross

"Take up your cross and follow me." — Matthew 16:24

Blessed Virgin Mary — traditional Catholic Marian devotional painting

Our Lady, Queen of Pilgrims

Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.