Valley of the Sun Chapter (Phoenix)
Location
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Contact Email
The Valley of the Sun Chapter of American Pilgrims covers the general area of central Arizona, centered on Phoenix.
The purpose of our local chapter is to keep participants connected to the Camino and to introduce new people to it, by:
- Supporting the goals of American Pilgrims on the Camino, and encouraging membership in the parent organization
- Providing opportunities for pilgrims, past, present and future to gather and to hold events related to and promoting the Camino de Santiago
- Mentoring future pilgrims
- Serving as a local host for hospitalero training in central Arizona
Contact chapter coordinators Pruitt Layton, Tina Strickler, Steven Coutinho and Cheryl Smart at Phoenix@americanpilgrims.org for more information. You can also sign up for the chapter email list.
Follow this link to the Local Chapter video on the American Pilgrims YouTube channel.
We have chapter shirts, hats and mugs available. Order yours using the links below:
Resources
2024
- Click HERE for a PDF of our Camino 101 September 2024 REI presentation.
2023
- Click HERE for a PDF of the January 2023 chapter meeting.
- Click HERE for a PDF of the Camino 101 Jan/Feb 2023 REI presentation.
- Click HERE for a PDF of the March 2023 Camino 201 presentation
2022
- Click HERE for a PDF of the January 2022 Camino 101 presentation.
- Click HERE for a PDF of the February 2022 meeting presentation.
- Click HERE for a PDF of the March 2022 Camino Portuguese.
2021
- Click HERE for a PDF of the March 2021 meeting presentation.
- Click HERE for a PDF of the May 2021 meeting presentation.
- Click HERE for a PDF of the July 2021 meeting presentation.
- Click HERE for a PDF of the November 2021 meeting presentation.
Online Resources
- Getting Started on the Camino de Santiago
- Introduction to the Ways of "The Way"
- Injury Prevention Tips for the Camino
- Basic Spanish for the Camino (rev. 2021)
- Helpful Camino Websites
- Leave No Trace: Ethics for the Camino
Events
The chapter will be hosting hikes, guest speakers, member presentations, pilgrim mentoring sessions, social get-togethers, and much more!
To see what we’re doing, the best option is to join our mailing list and/or request to join our Facebook Group where you can check out the latest announcements. You can also visit the Local Chapter Events Calendar and select our chapter name in the "All Events Category" pull-down menu. This will filter to display only our chapter's events or just email us to find out what we’re up to.
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! Our members aid our 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 our Facebook group for great dialogue, Q&A, photos and a running commentary about the Camino from like-minded pilgrims.
We also have 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 us. It's free, but we would appreciate a donation.
And for some inspiration, check out our La Concha web magazine. It includes updates from American Pilgrims, notes from field volunteers, pilgrim stories, poetry, art and book/film reviews.
Rev 12/25/2024