The Bicycle Pilgrimage sponsored by the Social Justice Ministry of the Diocese of Fairbanks evolved from a bike ride that took place in the summer of 2003.  That summer, the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) headquartered in Washington, D.C. sponsored an event called "Brake the Cycle of Poverty" which was a two month long ride from San Francisco to Washington, D.C.  Each night, the participants stopped at a Catholic parish along the route and talked about the work of CCHD and the people they empower through community organizing and economic development grants. 

Many dioceses across the country, including the Diocese of Fairbanks, wanted to do something on a local level, and held solidarity rides.  The first year, 2003, about fifteen riders started from Denali Park and rode to Fairbanks over a five day period.  Seven completed the entire journey, and at the end of the ride, people wanted to know where the next year's trip would be scheduled. 

As the ride was more like a pilgrimage or retreat to learn about and discuss Catholic social justice teaching and issues, the name "Bicycle Pilgrimage" was attached to subsequent years' events.  This pilgrimage/retreat has continued annually during the summertime and has enhanced the participants' knowledge and thirst for social justice issues.  Participants travel along the highways at a much slower pace than normal to reflect on issues they have discussed and to enjoy the beautiful and scenic byways of Alaska.   At this pace, you can't thank God enough for the time spent enjoying the raw beauty and nature all around.

The theme for the past two years has been Solidarity with our Brothers and Sisters Around the World.  Some of the topics addressed and discussed were poverty, economic justice, global food aid, fair trade, care of God's creation and other social justice issues.

Mornings started with breakfast followed by either a mass or communion service to energize the participants for the day.  Mid-day breaks consisted of lunch and a rosary.  Evenings started with setting up tents for the night while the aromas of a camp cooked meal whetted appetites after a long day's ride, sometimes more than 50 miles.  Late evenings consisted of dynamic discussions on social justice issues that we encounter on a regular basis. 

It is always difficult to recognize and bring to light the hardships of those less fortunate than ourselves, but even more difficult to come up with a workable solution to the innumerable problems that face the poor and vulnerable people in our society. 

Following are some pictures from past rides.  If you would like to have more information or want to help with or participate in future events, please contact Tom Buzek in the Social Justice Ministry at the chancery.