Masses on Pilgrimage

Logistics, Preparation

At the heart of the Christus Rex Pilgrimage is the Sacred Liturgy. Each day of the pilgrimage is sanctified by the offering of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, celebrated according to the 1962 Roman Missal, also known as the Usus Antiquior or Traditional Latin Mass.

All pilgrims are warmly encouraged to participate in these liturgies with a spirit of reverence, attentiveness, and devotion.

Friday Morning – Votive Mass of the Holy Cross

📍 St Patrick’s Cathedral, Ballarat
🕕 Begins at 6:00am sharp

The Pilgrimage commences with a Votive Mass of the Holy Cross, invoking the protection of Our Lord for the journey ahead. This Mass is followed by the Blessing of Pilgrims and the ceremonial departure procession from the steps of the Cathedral.

Saturday – Mass of the Blessed Virgin Mary

📍 Campbelltown Community Hall
🕦 Begins around 11:30am (subject to pilgrims’ arrival time)

Saturday’s Mass honours Our Lady, seeking her maternal intercession for the pilgrims’ perseverance and spiritual fruit. The Mass is celebrated in a rural setting upon arrival at Campbelltown and is an opportunity for rest and spiritual renewal.

Sunday – Solemn Mass of Christ the King

📍 Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bendigo
🕒 Pilgrims arrive at approximately 3:00pm
⛪ Mass begins following prayers and procession

The pilgrimage concludes with the glorious Solemn Mass of the Feast of Christ the King, in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the feast’s institution by Pope Pius XI in Quas Primas. The liturgy is accompanied by sacred polyphony and Gregorian chant, offered for the greater glory of God.

Reverence and Liturgical Etiquette

The Masses during the Pilgrimage are sacred moments of worship and thanksgiving. Pilgrims are asked to observe the following in order to uphold the dignity of the liturgy:

  • Arrive early and remain silent in the church or Mass space
  • Participate prayerfully in the responses and chant (as able)
  • Follow the lead of the celebrant and servers
  • Avoid unnecessary movement or conversation during Mass
  • Genuflect or kneel wherever space and terrain permit

Appropriate Dress for Mass

In keeping with the reverence due to the Sacred Liturgy, pilgrims are asked to dress modestly and respectfully for Mass each day. As there are no opportunities to change clothes during the day, please plan accordingly.

Suggested dress for Mass:

  • Collared shirts or modest tops
  • Long trousers or skirts
  • Avoid activewear (unless worn discreetly underneath)
  • Veils or head coverings for women are welcomed but not required
  • Clothing should cover shoulders and knees
  • Shoes should be clean and in good repair

Note: Some Masses are offered outdoors; dress should also be practical for the conditions, while maintaining a respectful appearance.

Posted In: Logistics, Preparation