What Happens during the Walk?
My growing did flourish as I listened to several talks given by laity and clergy on such theologically
significant themes as grace, priesthood of all believers, justifying grace, growth through study,
Christian action, disciple-ship, body of Christ, changing our world, and others. I learned from each
speaker and concluded that I would be pleased to have any one of the laity give the Sunday sermon in
all of the churches I have served.
—Clergyperson after Walk to Emmaus
In small table groups, we listened, took notes, and discussed each theme. What an experience it was
to listen as my fellow pilgrims—United Methodists, Presbyterians, Catholics, Lutherans, and
Baptists—wrestled with how to apply each topic to life. We demonstrated our insights with posters,
charts, skits, songs, and poems.
—Clergyperson from Indiana
The Emmaus event schedule that follows is a bare outline of The Walk to Emmaus experience.
This two-dimensional overview of the time, which lists activities and topics, cannot adequately
communicate what really happens in and among the people as a result of being together for three
days, focused on the love of God. Nevertheless, this outline gives a picture of what goes on
among the pilgrims in the conference room and chapel. This also shows why we describe The Walk
to Emmaus as a short course in Christianity, not a relaxing retreat. While the Emmaus Walk is fun and
rejuvenating, it is also concentrated and full.
The three days have distinct phases and reflect a trinitarian framework. The focus of Day one is God
and the relationship God offers. The focus of Day Two is Jesus Christ and each disciple's response to the
grace of God in the context of Christian community. The focus of Day Three is the Holy Spirit and the
call to live as an active member of the body of Christ through service in church and community. All three
days point to the Fourth Day—living every day as a walk with Christ in the company of one another,
through a lifestyle of regular prayer, study, and service.
A moment of silent reflection, then discussion and creative responses follow each of the fifteen talks.
The services of worship and daily prayer are thematic and are designed especially for the Emmaus Walk.
Each day includes break times and snacks. The three days as a whole are embraced by prayer and signs of
sacrificial service on the part of many who help make each Walk happen.
