The regional chapter for Northern California, centered on the San Francisco Bay Area and serving the region between Carmel and Sacramento, was established in January 2011. Broadly stated, the purpose of this local chapter is to keep members connected to the Camino and to introduce new people to the phenomenon.  We plan to accomplish this in a number of ways, such as social events, walks, mentoring future pilgrims and serving as a venue for hospitalero training through American Pilgrims.

You can check this page and the Local and Regional Events page for event dates and information. Contact chapter co-chairs Bob Holm or Rennie Archibald at NorCalChapter@americanpilgrims.com for more information or to be added to the chapter e-mail list.

Peregrinos on the American River

Recent Events

CARMICHAEL, CALIFORNIA
March 3, 2012
Seventeen pilgrims and friends enjoyed a beautiful sunny day as they hiked along the scenic American River in Sacramento County’s William B. Pond Recreation Area. Experienced pilgrims mentored those who are planning their first Camino, muscles were stretched, and a good time was had by all!

Blessing ceremony

LAYAFETTE, CALIFORNIA
First Annual Blessing of the Pilgrims
March 31, 2012

The Northern California Chapter held its first annual Pilgrims Blessing on March 31st. During the February annual meeting, a show of hands indicated heavy support for a traditional blessing for pilgrims leaving during the calendar year. So we put one on. In all 18 people attended. The Rev. Donald Shell, a 4-time Camino veteran and co-author with his daughter of a Camino-based book, handled the blessing. Rev. Shell taught us Camino oriented songs accompanied by a lustfully played drum and tambourine. His history lessons added depth to the pilgrim experience our friends are experiencing this year. Pilgrims, feet, packs, boots, poles and scallop shells all received a request for God's grace. Scallop shells were then distributed to all new and returning pilgrims to finalize the ceremony.

As might be expected, all benefited from the high always experienced when in the company of Camino brothers and sisters. Still, it is somewhat possible that the mimosas we poured added to the high as the group adjourned from the blessing to snacks, liquid refreshments and lots of yakking. A good, and might we add, emotional time was had by all.

The East Bay Hills hike

The Northern California Chapter conducted a training hike in the East Bay Hills on the Bay Area Ridge Trail, an event that attracted about 30. The hike started at the Sibley Regional Park's Volcanic Exhibit and Tilden Regional Park. Some took advantage of the labyrinth along the way. A splendid day with plenty of newcomers as well as experienced pilgrims. Everyone completed the challenging 8-mile loop.

Scheduled Events

CARMICHAEL, CALIFORNIA
American River Walk
Sunday, June 10, 2012, 9:45 a.m.

Join fellow pilgrims for a walk along the beautiful American River on Sunday, June 10, 2012.  We will meet at the gazebo on the riverbank in Sacramento County’s William B. Pond Recreation Area at 9:45 a.m. and begin our walk at 10:00 a.m. (trail is pet-friendly, so bring your pooch).  If you’re a new pilgrim, come and try out your gear and/or get advice from seasoned pilgrims on how to prepare for your trip to Santiago.  Dress for the weather and bring water along with your hat and sunscreen.  Hike will be followed by a potluck picnic back at the starting point, so bring food to share!

The park entrance is at 5700 Arden Way, Carmichael, CA 95608.  The park fees are $5 per vehicle and since self-payment is required if no fee collector is present, remember to bring the correct change.

For planning purposes, please RSVP to NorCalChapter@americanpilgrims.com by June 4th, and let us know if you are interested in carpooling.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
Saint James Day Celebration
Saturday, July 21, 2012

The Northern California Chapter’s second annual St. James Day celebration will be on Saturday, July 21, 2012. Celebrate Saint James Day early by joining fellow pilgrims for a walk in San Francisco’s Mission District on the Saturday before St. James Day. Details to follow but mark your calendar and plan to attend!

FELTON, CALIFORNIA
Fall Creek Hike
Saturday, October 20, 2012, 9:45 a.m.

Mark your calendar and plan to join your fellow Northern California pilgrims for a hike in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains. Alan Lemke and Susanna Rather will lead a moderate three-hour hike through the isolated Fall Creek area of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park located northwest of Felton.  Details to follow.

The chapter will be scheduling walks and potlucks. For future events please visit this page or the Local and Regional Events page.     

Are you interested in learning more about the Camino?
If you are thinking of walking the Camino and are interested in learning more, we can pair you with an experienced pilgrim who can answer your questions on how to prepare and what to expect.  Just email us at NorCalChapter@americanpilgrims.com and ask to be connected with a mentor. Also you can visit American Pilgrims on the Camino on Facebook for great dialogue, photos and a running commentary about the Camino from like-minded pilgrims.