“Ultreya!” This word is introduced to our pilgrims on Via de Cristo weekends along with many of the other Spanish phrases. Ultreya is a Spanish word that which means “Onward!” “Persevere!” “Press On!” “Hang In There!” The expression was originally associated with those who were making a pilgrimage on foot to the Shrine of St. James at Compostella in Spain, where the last part of the journey was a climb up a steep hill. Groups of pilgrims would call this word of encouragement to each other as they climbed up the hill.
WHAT IS AN “ULTREYA”?
The simplist description of the Ultreya is a meeting of Group Reunions. Here we witness together to the life in grace and we challenge each other to persevere on our journey to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. While the primary Group Reunion is weekly, the Ultreya is usually every other month. At the Ultreya you will reaffirm friendships you made on your weekend. You will also make many new friends and receive encouragement and support.
WHAT IS ULTREYA MEANT TO BE?
Ultreya ideally carries out the spirit of Via de Cristo, which is the awareness that we are saints and apostles – not only in the exciting atmosphere of the weekend, but also saints and apostles in the natural and normal and sometimes not so exciting events of our day-to-day living. We learn more deeply that we are not alone. We are linked together in the love, the fellowship, the encouragement of our brother and sister saints and apostles.
WHAT HAPPENS AT AN ULTREYA?
- Opening Prayer
- Music
- Possible Lay witness or speaker
- An opportunity for response from the Spiritual Director
- Time for reflection on the talk (informal Reunion Group)
- Worship
- Food!
CHECK OUT OUR EVENT CALENDAR TO FIND OUT DETAILS OF THE NEXT ULTREYA.