Our Name: The Pilgrim’s Journey
In the heart of Braga, where ancient pilgrim paths converge on the way to Santiago de Compostela, Pilgrim International Church stands as both a waypoint and a testament to the Christian journey. Our name carries three layers of meaning that shape our identity and mission.
Rooted in Place: Braga’s Pilgrim Heritage
For centuries, pilgrims have walked through Braga’s cobbled streets, their footsteps echoing those of countless faithful who sought spiritual renewal on the Camino de Santiago. Today, our church continues this tradition of hospitality, welcoming modern-day pilgrims from every nation. We embrace our role in this historic landscape while serving a contemporary, international community.
A Home for Sojourners
Our congregation reflects the beautiful diversity of God’s kingdom. We are:
- Expatriates building new lives in Portugal
- International students pursuing their studies
- Portuguese locals seeking English-language worship
- Refugees and migrants finding community
- Travelers pausing their journey to worship
Each person’s story enriches our community, creating a tapestry of faith that transcends national boundaries.
The Deeper Journey: Biblical Pilgrimage
The heart of our name lies in Scripture’s rich imagery of pilgrimage. Like Abraham, called to journey to an unknown land, we walk by faith. Like Israel, led through wilderness toward promise, we follow God’s guidance. And like the early church, we understand that our citizenship is in heaven while we serve God’s purposes on earth.
This biblical pilgrimage is marked by:
- Promise: We journey toward the New Creation, where Christ will make all things new
- Present Reality: We live as kingdom citizens here and now
- Community: We walk together, supporting one another
- Purpose: Every step is guided by God’s mission
Finding Rest for the Journey
Every Sunday, we gather as fellow pilgrims to:
- Worship the God who leads us
- Feed on His Word and Sacraments
- Strengthen one another in fellowship
- Equip ourselves for the journey ahead
Join Our Journey
Whether you’re in Braga for a week or a lifetime, whether you’re taking your first steps of faith or have walked with Christ for decades, you’ll find a home among fellow pilgrims here. Together, we follow Jesus, “the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2), as we journey toward our eternal home.
For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.
