Annual Gathering of Pilgrims
American Pilgrims on the Camino hosts an annual Gathering of Pilgrims in a different location each year.
The Gathering is an opportunity to share experiences, to support one another and to learn more about the Camino and the pilgrimage experience.
2026 Gathering of Pilgrims at Mo-Ranch
Echoes from the Camino: The Gifts We Carry. The Gifts We Share.
From April 9–12, 2026, pilgrims will gather once again at Mo-Ranch in the Texas Hill Country for the annual Gathering of Pilgrims. After the success of the 2024 event at this riverside retreat, Mo-Ranch will again welcome hundreds of pilgrims back for another weekend of learning, celebration and connection.
The Theme
The 2026 theme, “Echoes from the Camino: The Gifts We Carry. The Gifts We Share.”, invites us to reflect on how the Camino continues to shape our lives long after we return home. Like the Hero’s Journey, pilgrimage sends us out in search of transformation and calls us back carrying an “elixir”—a gift to be shared.
For some, the gift is expressed through words: poetry, journals, or books. Others bring it to life through music, painting, or sculpture. Still others turn to film or photography, creating images and stories that inspire future pilgrims. However it takes shape, each offering is an echo of the Camino—an outward ripple that touches others far beyond the trail.
Program
The 2026 Gathering program will combine presentations, workshops, and interactive sessions with ample time for fellowship. Pilgrims will find opportunities for crafts, music, and the arts—hands-on experiences that highlight the many gifts of the Camino community. Just as important will be the unstructured time to gather, share stories, and deepen connections with fellow pilgrims.
We are also mindful that the community of Hunt, Texas, home to Mo-Ranch, was the site of a tragic flood in July 2025. In gratitude for the welcome we receive, we hope to include opportunities for community service projects, allowing pilgrims to give back and support our generous hosts.
Camino de San Antonio Missions Walk
Planning is also underway with hopes to offer an optional Camino de San Antonio Missions walk on April 8, the day before the 2026 Gathering begins. While details are still being finalized, this historic route—passing through Spanish colonial missions—would provide a meaningful chance to walk together in pilgrimage spirit before traveling on to Mo-Ranch. Distance from this walk is even recognized by the Cathedral in Santiago and can be applied toward the Compostela.
Lodging & Meals
The 2026 Gathering at Mo-Ranch will again provide both hotel-style lodging and albergue-style options. The albergue lodging offers a more economical choice and a true taste of the Camino, echoing the shared spirit of pilgrim life. Shared meals and common spaces encourage connection, bringing together first-time attendees and long-time pilgrims alike.
Volunteers
Want to be part of the action? We’re looking for volunteers to help with organizing, logistics, leading hikes, or presenting. If you’re interested in lending a hand, please email gatherings@americanpilgrims.org
How to Attend
Registration for the 2026 Gathering opens in January 2026. Stay tuned, mark your calendars, and plan to join us in the Texas Hill Country. Together, we will listen for the echoes of the Camino—and share the gifts we carry.
What We Did in 2025
The 2025 event in Vancouver was truly special—not just because of the beautiful setting at the University of British Columbia or the rich lineup of speakers and activities, but also because it was co-hosted by American Pilgrims on the Camino and the Canadian Company of Pilgrims.
This gathering’s theme, “Bridges of the Camino: Connecting Cultures and Hearts,” came to life in so many ways. We heard from Alfredo Martínez Serrano, the Ambassador of Spain to Canada, along with Rebekah Scott, Juan Carlos Pérez Cabezas and many others. We even made a huge human arrow!
Get more details and the full text of Rebekah and Juan Carlos' talks here.
Follow this link to view the 2025 program.
Check out the fun in our 2025 video.

What We Did in 2024
Our 2024 program included informative and insightful presentations for pilgrims of all levels. We welcomed Lynn Talbot, Maryjane Dunn, Lisa Signori, Carlos Mentley, Kathy Kehe, Adam Wells, Dave Whitson, Leigh Brennan, Alder Allensworth, Shoshana Kerewsky and many more talented and insightful speakers.
Our Dutch, Spanish, Canadian and Norwegian colleagues gave delightful presentations. We had a walk to our own Cruz de Ferro on Saturday morning, and five intrepid (crazy?) pilgrims accepted the “Polar Plunge Challenge” and leaped into the Guadalupe River on a 39°F morning.
Musical guests included The Western Flyers, Dan Mullins, Dr. Kristina Jacobsen and Dair Obenshain, and a reunion of the Merry Band of Pilgrims!


Check out the fun in the 2024 video.
Rev 10/18/2025