A Journey into the Heart of Christian Mysticism: The King’s 16th Century Mystics Pilgrimage
The King’s University (TKU) and Seminary recently hosted an unforgettable spiritual adventure as part of the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program—our inaugural 16th Century Spanish Mystics Pilgrimage! This exciting new offering launched under the fresh concentration in Spiritual Formation and Direction, and the first cohort of trailblazing DMin students (Cohort 9) journeyed through Spain in the footsteps of saints, scholars, and mystics. Six students, Elizabeth Fulgaro, Jeremiah George, Danika Gratton, Jonathan Huang, Debrian John, and David Lockwood, traveled to Spain and participated in this amazing adventure. The pilgrimage served as the capstone to the students engaged in pursuing their doctoral degrees with a Spiritual Formation and Direction concentration.
The group was joined by a powerhouse team of TKU’s very own Director of the DMin Program, Dr. Dan Call, and doctoral adjuncts: Dr. Debbie Gill, Dr’s Michael and Jennifer Scudiero, Dr. Tracey Hanson, and Dr.Vaughn Baker, as well as invited pilgrims longing for intimacy with God. This deeply enriching pilgrimage was more than a class; it was a sacred experience. Designed to immerse students in the landscape and legacy of Christian mysticism, the pilgrimage blended academic study with personal transformation. Ignatius of Loyola, Teresa of Avila, and John of the Cross were studied and their spiritual practices considered.
Ignatius of Loyola walked from Montserrat to Manresa in 1522 and spent eleven months seeking God and developing what later were called Spiritual Exercises. The cave where he pursued God in prayer and his writings became the seeds for a Catholic religious order of priests and brothers known as the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) founded in 1540. The Jesuits, founded by Ignatius, followed the motto “finding God in all things.” Today, Jesuits are found in 120 countries around the world and Ignatian Spiritual Exercises are practiced by millions.
Pilgrims visited the rugged beauty of Montserrat, a Benedictine monastery carved into the rocky cliffs—a truly awe-inspiring encounter. In Montserrat, students and faculty traveled by cable car named the Sant Joan funicular for a bird’s eye view of the region called Catalonia.
Some of the other wonderful attractions in Montserrat included a trip to the Basilica De Montserrat, a look at the famous Black Madonna, and a short hike leading up to Sant Jerome, 4,055 feet above sea level. Along with exploring ancient churches and the surrounding village, days were spent in quiet reflection and community at the Cova Manresa Ignatian Spiritual Retreat Center, where St. Ignatius of Loyola himself once prayed.
Each moment of the pilgrimage was designed to deepen the participants’ understanding of spiritual direction and contemplative practices and culminated in a joyous celebration where students were awarded a Certificate of Completion in the 16th Century Spanish Mystics Pilgrimage—as well as official certification as Spiritual Directors. The last leg of their doctoral degree will be the completion of their dissertation project, which begins in the summer and will conclude with commencement in spring 2026.
The blend of spiritual history, Christian fellowship, and academic depth made this an unforgettable journey for all involved. For alumni and friends of TKU, this is your invitation to consider future opportunities to join these rich spiritual encounters. Whether you’re pursuing further studies or seeking renewal in your walk with God, TKU’s pilgrimage experiences offer sacred space to explore, reflect, and grow.
Next year’s pilgrimage is currently being planned. It will include travel to Scotland and Northumberland, England. This Ancient Celtic Church and Neo-Monastic Movements Pilgrimage and Prayer Retreat is scheduled for late April, 2026. Our base for the pilgrimage will be Holy Island (Lindisfarne) in England which is known for being the launch point of ministry for Saint Aidan (590-651AD) and Saint Cuthbert (634-687 AD), Eadberht (Died 698 AD) and Eadfrith (Died 721 AD). The collective work of these early Christian missionaries were credited with converting the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity.
Celtic Christians emphasized both contemplation within monastic communities and mission work, connecting with people and building relationships through evangelism and service. A strong sense of hospitality, both towards others and towards God, was central to Celtic spirituality. Many aspects of Celtic Christianity influence today’s understanding of evangelism and missionary service.
As The King’s University and Seminary’s Doctor of Ministry concentration in Spiritual Formation and Direction expands, pilgrimages to Egypt (Desert Fathers and Mothers and Coptic Charismatic Renewal Pilgrimage and Prayer Retreat) and Italy (Saints of Umbria Pilgrimage and Prayer Retreat) are in the works. A wonderful partnership with Sherpa, a sister spiritual direction organization and The King’s University are working together to make the best spiritual pilgrimages available for Christians wishing to grow spiritually and academically.
Maybe you are contemplating a doctoral degree, or wishing to become a certified spiritual director, then consider The King’s University for your next step in fulfilling your dreams. We would love to talk to you. Click here to learn more about the Doctor of Ministry program.
