Polish Catholic Pilgrimage to Vilnius Starts, St. Christopher Week Begins

On July 15, the 36th International Walking Pilgrimage titled “Queen of Peace” set out from Suwałki, Poland, heading toward the Gate of Dawn in Vilnius. Nearly 500 pilgrims from across Poland will walk about 270 kilometres over ten days, crossing the border through Polish‑inhabited areas of the Vilnius region. Organised by the Parish of Our Lady of Mercy in Suwałki, participants pray for health, peace and personal intentions throughout the journey.

From July 19 to 26, Poland observes the 27th National St. Christopher Week under the theme “Students‑missionaries light of the world on the roads.” After masses, drivers receive blessings and vehicles are dedicated. The week promotes a “1 cent per kilometre” fundraiser, managed by MIVA Poland, to purchase transport (cars, motorcycles, boats, ambulances) for missionaries working on five continents. The initiative also recalls the 21 000 road accidents last year that claimed 1 660 lives, linking prayer for safe travel with practical aid for remote communities.