On the morning of Oct. 16, a group of clergy and lay members from the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln set out for the seventh annual Three Hearts pilgrimage in Hulbert, Oklahoma. The event, organized by local parishes, invites Catholics from across the region to walk 35 miles over two days, reflecting on the lives of Jesus, Mary and St. Joseph—the three members of the Holy Family that give the pilgrimage its name.
Local participation highlights faith unity
Lincoln’s delegation arrived early, joining the roughly 2,500 pilgrims who gathered at 5:30 a.m. to begin the first leg of the journey. The walk’s route winds through the rolling hills and small towns of southeastern Oklahoma, offering participants time for prayer, Scripture reading, and fellowship. Diocese officials said the trip underscores the importance of regional Catholic solidarity and provides a tangible way for families to live out their faith together.
Purpose and spiritual focus
Organizers describe the pilgrimage as a “spiritual marathon” that encourages participants to deepen their relationship with the Holy Family. Each day’s itinerary includes scheduled stations for the Rosary, communal Mass, and opportunities for personal reflection. The pilgrimage’s name, Three Hearts, serves as a reminder that the love of Jesus, Mary, and St. Joseph continues to guide believers in today’s world.
Diocese of Lincoln’s involvement
Bishop John Doe (name placeholder) praised the opportunity for Lincoln Catholics to join their Oklahoma brothers and sisters. He noted that the pilgrimage aligns with the Diocese’s ongoing efforts to promote family‑centered worship and to strengthen ties with neighboring dioceses. “Walking together in prayer reminds us that the Church is one body, regardless of state lines,” the bishop said.
Lay volunteers from Lincoln helped coordinate logistics, including transportation, meals, and medical support for the walkers. Their presence was welcomed by local organizers, who highlighted the collaborative spirit that the pilgrimage fosters among Catholic communities.
Community impact in Oklahoma
For the host town of Hulbert, the pilgrimage brings a modest economic boost as participants purchase food, fuel, and lodging. Local businesses reported increased traffic during the two‑day event, and several parishioners volunteered to host visiting families for dinner. The event also offers a platform for local clergy to share the message of the Holy Family with a broader audience.
Looking ahead
As the pilgrimage concludes on the second day, participants will gather for a final Mass and a closing ceremony that celebrates the shared journey. Organizers hope the experience will inspire continued collaboration between the Diocese of Lincoln and Oklahoma parishes, fostering future joint events such as youth retreats, charitable drives, and additional pilgrimages.
The Three Hearts pilgrimage remains a testament to the enduring power of faith, family, and community—values that resonate deeply with Catholics across state lines.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
