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Theology Day: Pilgrims of Hope—Collegeville, Emmaus Hall
“Pilgrims of Hope:” The Theology and Practice of Pilgrimage
Chris Conway, Ph.D.
Pope Francis declared the theme for the 2025 Jubilee to be “Pilgrims of Hope.” Pilgrimage as both a practice and a metaphor has a rich tradition in Christianity. The Church is called to be a pilgrim church, and we are to be a pilgrim people. In exploring what makes pilgrimage such an evocative symbol, we will look at pilgrimage as it is presented in the Bible, practiced in the tradition, and has appeared in the arts. As a religious phenomenon that is not limited to Christianity, we will also look at the place and places of pilgrimage in other faith traditions to further understand the power and pervasiveness of this practice. Whether it is a setting out or turning in, the theology, practice, and symbol of pilgrimage continues to inspire persons of faith around the world.
Chris Conway is the Director of Jay Phillips Center for Interfaith Learning and an associate professor in the Department of Theology at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s and The Saint John’s University School of Theology and Seminary. He completed his doctoral studies at Boston College in comparative theology, and his areas of research include spiritual practices and devotional traditions in Christianity and Hinduism.
Dates & Times
Friday, February 13 (2026), 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Emmaus Hall, Saint John’s University
Friday, February 13 (2026), 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Online Webinar
Thursday, March 5 (2026), 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Pax Christi Catholic Church, Eden Prairie, MN
Thursday, April 9 (2026), 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. St. Joan of Arc Catholic Community, Minneapolis, MN
Tuesday, April 21(2026), 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Emmaus Hall, Saint John’s University
Please note: Start time indicates when presentations begin; in-person check-in is 30 minutes prior, webinar and synchronous access opens about 15 minutes prior.
Theology Day is a chance for people in our communities who are seeking a deeper spiritual life or understanding of their faith and its place in their everyday lives to learn from and interact with the theologians of Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary. It offers a chance for these scholars to gain insights and grow in their faith, as well.
There is no fee for Theology Day, but registration is required. Free-will offerings and gifts to support the mission of the School of Theology and Seminary are gratefully accepted.
For more information, contact our Development Office at 320-363-3560 or theologyday@csbsju.edu.


















