Farewell to a tradition: 50 years of pilgrimage to the Fourteen Saints

Farewell to a tradition: 50 years of pilgrimage to the Fourteen Saints

This year's pilgrimage from Gerolzhofen to Fourteen Saints was all about a special anniversary. On October 18th and 19th, 2025, around 60 pilgrims set out to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this tradition. The start took place early in the morning of October 18th at 5 a.m. at the Matthias Ehrenfried Generation Center in Würzburg. After a bus ride to Gerolzhofen, the pilgrimage began at 6 a.m. with a prayer in the hospital church.

The hike stretched over around 80 kilometers and led through the beautiful autumn landscape. The weather was also at its best and provided pleasant conditions. An overnight stay took place in Haßbergen in the parish of Maria Himmelfahrt in Kirchlauter before the pilgrims set off on the final stage the next day to their destination, the pilgrimage church of the Fourteen Saints.

A farewell to tradition

This pilgrimage is not only an occasion for celebration, but also a farewell to a long-standing tradition. In his welcoming speech, Monsignor Gottfried Amendt, who initiated the pilgrimage 50 years ago, acknowledged the commitment of the participants. On his 80th birthday, he received special recognition in the form of a candle and a self-designed book that records the history of past pilgrimages.

The crowning conclusion of the celebrations was a service in the pilgrimage church led by Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus. Ulrich Boom was celebrated. “It is a moving moment to reflect on the history of this pilgrimage and yet look with sadness at the end of this tradition,” Boom said during his blessing. At a reception on the steps of the church, all pilgrims gathered to toast together and say goodbye to each other.

From the pilgrimage tradition to the community

Pilgrimage has a long history in the Christian tradition and differs from free pilgrimage. According to katholisch.de, pilgrimages are specific undertakings to designated holy places with a specific purpose. While pilgrimages often focus on experiences and discoveries, pilgrimages have a clear goal and community character.

In recent years, interest in pilgrimages and pilgrimages has increased again, especially in Europe. Many people want to connect with their spirituality and use these ways to take a break from hectic everyday life. The upcoming pilgrimage to Fourteen Saints in August 2024 also promises to be part of this rediscovery of the pilgrim tradition, as reported by gerolzhofen.bistum-wuerzburg.de.

The future for the pilgrimage from Gerolzhofen to Fourteen Saints remains uncertain as there are no plans to continue this tradition. But the memories and friendships created during these trips will continue to endure and connect the community in a very special way.