What’s it like to go to the Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage? Recounting a day of spiritual nourishment and encouragement

CV NEWS FEED // A now-annual pilgrimage in Washington, D.C., is offering the opportunity to encounter Jesus in the Eucharist, the mysteries of the Rosary, and the preaching of Dominican friars, all in the same day. 

The Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage is now an annual event at the largest Catholic basilica in the United States, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. 

On Sept. 28, the Dominican Friars of the Province of St. Joseph hosted the second annual pilgrimage, which was marked with great success.

‘There’s no other gathering like it in the country’ 

Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage spokesperson Fr. Patrick Briscoe, O.P., told CatholicVote in an email statement that pilgrims’ enthusiasm for this year’s Pilgrimage was encouraging. 

“We couldn’t believe the response from pilgrims this year at the second (now annual!) Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage,” Fr. Briscoe wrote. “They are hungry for the day’s beautiful liturgy, for Dominican preaching and to spread devotion to the Virgin Mary and the Holy Rosary … There’s no other gathering like it in the country.” 

The Pilgrimage even drew Catholics from more than 600 miles away. Among the several thousand faithful who journeyed to D.C. were Kayla and Ben Wascovich, a young Catholic couple who made the long trek, for the second year in a row, from Kentucky.

“While it is a long journey, I believe that is part of the beauty of a pilgrimage,” Kayla told CatholicVote in an email interview. “It is a chance to get away, get a little uncomfortable, and grow.”

Kayla explained that their decision to join the inaugural year of the Pilgrimage was influenced by the significant personal growth they have experienced through connecting with the Dominicans. 

Talks, the Rosary, Holy Mass, and the Hillbilly Thomists

This year, the Pilgrimage’s events included a talk titled “Going Godward,” that was given by Fr. James Sullivan, O.P., in the morning, followed by Eucharistic Adoration and Confession. Kayla noted that there was a lunch break and that attendees could also walk around to see the Basilica.

In the afternoon, Fr. Sullivan gave a second talk, titled “The Rosary: The Scenic View along the Way,” which focused especially on the Joyful mystery of the Annunciation.

The pilgrims prayed rosary after the talks, and then the Pilgrimage concluded with Mass.

“The appreciation that the Dominicans have for celebrating the Sacraments frequently is remarkable,” Ben Wascovich told CatholicVote. “The Dominican parishes that I have belonged to both have had regular times for Confessions almost every day, as well as multiple Mass times during the week. It’s no wonder that the Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage would include both of these great things.”

At the end of the day, the Dominican bluegrass band “the Hillbilly Thomists” played a concert for attendees on the lawn of the Catholic University of America, which is within walking distance of the Basilica. 

The Wascovichs’ home parish is run by the Dominicans, and Kayla shared that the Pilgrimage also helped reconnect her and Ben with many brothers they’ve previously met. 

When asked what her favorite part of the Pilgrimage was, Kayla said it was both “[praying] the rosary and getting to talk to the brothers.”

“The rosary was done in such a reverent way with a procession, chanting, and images of the mysteries placed throughout the Basilica,” she continued. “The Mass was also celebrated so beautifully. It is difficult to pick a favorite part!” 

Spiritual fruits from this year’s Pilgrimage – and looking ahead to 2025

Ben emphasized that going on the Pilgrimage is a good opportunity to meet Dominican religious and learn about their charisms. One charism, of course, is preaching. The Dominicans also are devoted to sharing about the Rosary. The Blessed Virgin Mary told St. Dominic, the Order’s founder, about the importance of promoting this prayer. 

Fr. Briscoe told CatholicVote several hundred people were enrolled in the Rosary Confraternity at this year’s Pilgrimage and that the Dominicans are looking forward to the next gathering with all the new members. 

He also explained that going on the Pilgrimage has had a transformative effect in attendees’ lives. 

“Just yesterday I met with a young man who attended the Rosary Pilgrimage (it was his first Mass) and now he’s enrolling in OCIA [Order of Christian Initiation for Adults], preparing to join the Church this Easter,” he told CatholicVote Nov. 19. 

Fr. Briscoe attributed the Pilgrimage’s fruits to the intercession of Jesus’ mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary.

“Our Lady is unleashing a flood of grace that will continue to be renewed every year that pilgrims participate — and bring others with them,” Fr. Briscoe wrote. 

The Pilgrimage provided a unique opportunity for renewal amid the routine of everyday life, offering encouragement and inspiration, Kayla said. Spending a day with other Catholics who are striving to deepen their faith lives has left a lasting impression on her. 

“The beauty of it all is really what has stuck with me,” she told CatholicVote, recalling how the basilica was filled with faithful from various states who gathered out of love for Jesus and Mary. 

For those considering going next year, but who might be unsure because of the distance, she offered a word of encouragement. 

“It can be a long journey and a long day, especially if you are traveling from out of town,” Kayla said, “but it is definitely worth it! We are looking forward to next year’s Pilgrimage!” 

The next Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage will be held Sept. 27, 2025. Those interested in learning more can click here.

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