The Sacred Journey of Sponsorship

Sponsor a Pilgrim

 

Sponsorship is the act of revisiting your own Walk to Emmaus experience with the person whom God has laid upon your heart. It is one of the most important aspects of the movement and is an intentional act of "Love One Another."

 

The Sacred Commitment

 

When you agree to sponsor a Pilgrim, you are committing to more than just a signature. You are stepping into a role as their spiritual advocate. This includes:

• Discerning with Prayer: Spend concentrated time in prayer to ensure this is God’s timing for your Pilgrim. Emmaus is intended for active church members and leaders looking to strengthen their spiritual foundation.

• The Invitation: Meet with your Pilgrim (and their spouse, if applicable) to share your own experience. Be open and honest—there are no secrets, only surprises.

​​

Supporting the Journey (Before the Walk)

 

Your presence is the most powerful gift you can give. We ask that all sponsors commit to:

Preparation: Assist your Pilgrim in completing their application and obtaining their Pastor’s signature.

Sacrificial Love (Agape): Collect 8–12 personal letters from family and friends to encourage your Pilgrim during the weekend.

• Spiritual Preparation: Commit to praying and sacrificing for you pilgrim as they prepare for their 72 hour journey.

• Family Discussion: If the pilgrim is married or in a committed relationship, discuss the Walk with their spouse or partner to ensure mutual understanding and support.

• Logistical Planning: Drive your Pilgrim to the retreat site on Thursday evening and take them home on Sunday.

​

Being the Hands and Feet of Jesus (During the Walk)

​​

Your Pilgrim is sacrificing 72 hours of their life for a closer relationship with Christ. For their journey to be successful, your prayers, presence, and sacrifice are also needed.

• Sacred Rhythms of Service: Provide for the needs of the Pilgrim's family (childcare, meals, etc.) so the Pilgrim can focus entirely on the Holy Spirit.

• Prayer: Support your Pilgrim, the other Pilgrim's and the team by signing up to prayer during the 72 hours of prayer.

• Support through Attendance: Plan your weekend to be present for the "sacred rhythm" of the community:

  • Sponsor's Hour (Thursday Evening)​

  • Candlelight (Saturday Evening)

  • Closing Service (Sunday Afternoon)

• Minimal Contact: Honor the Pilgrim's experience by maintaining minimal contact, allowing them space to focus on their personal encounter with Christ.​

 

Walking Together in the Fourth Day (After the Walk)

 

Sponsorship doesn't end on Sunday. Your role is to help your Pilgrim transition back into their daily life with a heart on fire:

• The Journey Continues: Accompany your Pilgrim to the Fourth Day Meeting to help them transition their "mountaintop experience" into the reaily of daily life.

• Reunion Groups: Actively help the pilgrim find their "spiritual family" by getting them into a Reunion Group for ongoing accountability and encouragement.

• Ongoing Mentorship: Continue to "walk beside" your friend as they find their own way to serve and pay the gift of Emmaus forward. Encourage them as they find new ways to serve in their home church.

 

Ready to Sponsor?

 

To begin the process, fill out the Sponsorship Form below. Register (or help your Pilgrim register) for the weekend.

​

Note: A non-refundable deposit of $50 is required with the Pilgrim's registration.