The St. Louis Chapter of American Pilgrims covers the general area of St. Louis including east-cental Missouri and west-central Illinois.
Broadly stated, the purpose of this local chapter is to keep participants connected to the Camino and to introduce new people to the phenomenon. We plan to accomplish this in a number of ways, such as social events, hikes, mentoring future pilgrims and serving as a local host for hospitalero training through American Pilgrims.
Contact Chapter coordinators Joette Reidy, Amy Horton and Robert (Bob) Trende at [email protected] for more information or to be added to the chapter email list.
Events
The chapter schedules walks, talks, potlucks, maintains a lending library of Camino-related books and much more! Email us at [email protected] to see what we’re up to! You can also see upcoming events on our chapter calendar below. We also invite you to join the conversation in our chapter’s private Facebook group.
Chapter Calendar
St. Charles, MO: St. Louis Chapter, Camino Vino Event
Bonne Terre, MO: St. Louis Chapter, Mooner’s Hollow Trail Hike
St. Louis, MO: St. Louis Chapter, Urban Walk + Autumn Gathering
Defiance, MO: St. Louis Chapter, KATY Trail/Klondike Park Hike + Good News Brewery Lunch
Special Note
We offer a Shell Ceremony that includes a pilgrim blessing and the presentation of a scallop shell to pilgrims preparing to embark on their first Camino. We may host an annual or seasonal group shell ceremony open to any pilgrims departing in that timeframe. We will announce these events to our email list and in our private Facebook group. If the timing of the group shell ceremony does not coincide with your planned departure, upon request we can also arrange for an individual shell presentation in conjunction with another of our chapter events. Please email your request early enough to allow us to plan accordingly.
Follow this link to view the Local Chapters video on YouTube.
Mentor Program
If you are thinking of walking the Camino and are interested in learning more, we can pair you with an experienced pilgrim who can answer your questions on how to prepare and what to expect. Just email us and ask to be connected with a mentor.
Become a Member
You don’t need to be a member to participate in chapter activities. However, we’d love to have you! American Pilgrims members aid our national mission to support Camino infrastructure, gather pilgrims and provide information about the Camino. Becoming a member it’s a great way to connect with your fellow pilgrims, qualify for Hospitalero training, contribute to our La Concha publication, and attend exclusive members-only events.
Keen to Learn More About the Camino?
Consider joining the Facebook group for great dialogue, Q&A, photos and a running commentary about the Camino from like-minded pilgrims.
The website has a ton of pilgrimage planning resources like; a packing list, planning 101, what to expect while there, route overviews, and suggested apps and guidebooks.
And when you are preparing to go, you can even order your pilgrim credential from American Pilgrims. Members receive a free credential. Non-members may order a credential for a $5 donation.
And for some inspiration, check out La Concha, our quarterly magazine. It includes updates from American Pilgrims, notes from field volunteers, pilgrim stories, poetry, art and book/film reviews.