Q: What should a participant (Pilgrim) expect over the weekend?

A: The Walk to Emmaus is an ecumenical program that invites and involves Christians of many different denominations. Participants are presented with 15 talks over the course of three days.  These talks are given by either a layperson or a member of the Clergy.  After each talk, participants are given time to reflect and participate in group discussions. Additional activities are also planned for reflection and fellowship.

The Walk to Emmaus is a tightly designed event that is conducted with discipline according to the Upper Room manual.  This ensures a proven format that is consistent from weekend to weekend wherever Emmaus is offered.

Q: What must a participant (pilgrim) bring when attending a walk?

  • Bible

  • Flashlight

  • Umbrella

  • Jacket or sweater

  • Comfortable Clothes

  • Towel

  • Washcloth

  • Toiletries

  • Medication, if needed

  • CPAP Machine, if needed

  • Any special food that you may need (Please let your sponsor know about any dietary concerns you may have)

  • Please do not bring any electronic devices such as cell phones, watches, computers, tablets, etc. The Weekend Directors will provide all timekeeping and communication. Your sponsor also has emergency contact information if you need to be contacted during the Walk.

Q. What is the cost of the Walk?

A. The total cost of the 2025 Walk is $210 for the total Weekend. Only a $25.00 deposit is to accompany the Pilgrim Application and is counted toward the total fee for the Walk.

Q: Why do I need a sponsor for the Emmaus Walk?

A: Each person attending the Walk to Emmaus must have a sponsor who has already attended the Walk. Your sponsor will assist you with the application, make sure you have what you need for the weekend, assist you in getting to and from the campground, and make a commitment to assist with any needs that you may have during the weekend so that you are free to fully experience the Walk.

If you are interested in going on the Walk to Emmaus but do not have a sponsor, please notify us through the "Contact Us" link. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you find a sponsor in your area.  

Q: Why do men and women have separate Walk to Emmaus weekends?

A: The Emmaus experience is designed for individuals to focus on their personal walk with Christ. It is a weekend where distractions are removed to create an environment that allows a person to more fully listen to what God is revealing to them. Things like newspapers, clocks, phones, pagers, televisions, radios, and yes, even the opposite sex, are all removed so that a person can devote their full attention to the Walk experience.

The Walk is not a ministry for couples to reconnect with each other.  Its purpose is to develop strong Christian leaders. Couples are encouraged to attend the same set of weekends because they can then share their experiences with one another. Most often, the Walk experience strengthens a couple's relationship with each other and Christ.

Q: What happens after an Emmaus weekend:

A: You are invited to have a closer walk with Christ for the rest of your life. Where the retreat is 3 days of your life – the days following your walk are referred to as your 4th Day.  Those who attend a Walk to Emmaus are encouraged to:

  • Form or join an accountability/reunion group with 2+ people to meet regularly to walk together as you face the challenges and blessings of a life lived in grace. The reunion groups in Wisconsin can be found here.

  • Attend local gatherings and events sponsored by the community.

  • Expand your own spiritual lives through worship, study, and active participation at your local church.

  • Become more active disciples of Christ in service to the world.

  • Participate in the many opportunities to serve on a future Walk to Emmaus.