This year 2015 marks the 90th anniversary of the consecration of the Altar of the Sacred Heart in the monastery of Arnstein (1925). That was when the pilgrimages were begun. For the founders, Arnstein would be the center of the Enthronement of the Sacred Heart in Germany. A year later pilgrimages by rail began. At its height there were, one summer, 17 trains with an average of 900 pilgrims. The tradition continues today by autobus.
Also this year is the 20th anniversary of the beatification of Damien (1995). This year’s pilgrimages will recall past practices. After so many years, a special train will bring pilgrims from Cologne to Arnstein. In parallel fashion, another group will walk from Nassau to Arnstein. This group will recall the “Youth pilgrimages,” which for many years came from Lahnstein. Individual pilgrims are welcome.
This is not a nostalgic throw back. The events noted above show apostolic zeal and the willingness to open our hearts more to the love of the Sacred Heart. The mission remains as relevant today as it was 100 years ago, just looking for new ways to do it. The Province of Germany chose the feast of Damien to spread the message. This event, set for May 10th, is an effort to re-invigorate, with some new touches, the traditional pilgrimage of Arnstein.
04/04/2015