Trip Overview

Join other attendees of the CCMA Called26 conference on a pre-conference mini-pilgrimage through San Diego, led by Verso Ministries.

Discover San Diego’s Catholic heritage through a guided tour of California’s first mission and free time exploring the historic birthplace of the city.

This experience will create spiritual and communal foundation for the conference ahead through prayer, fellowship, and cultural immersion.

 

Registration for this pilgrimage is limited to CCMA participants attending the Called26 conference.

What’s Included?

  • Guided tours of Mission San Diego de Alcalá and Immaculate Conception Church
  • Transportation between sites on private motorcoach
  • Opportunities for prayer and reflection
  • Resources for exploring San Diego's Old Town
  • Verso Ministries staff accompanying the group

Itinerary

Participants meet at the designated location near University of San Diego campus housing. This serves as conference check-in as well, with a brief welcome and orientation to the day’s pilgrimage before boarding the bus for a 15-minute transfer to Mission San Diego de Alcalá.

Bus departs from the University of San Diego for Mission San Diego de Alcalá.

A guided exploration of California’s first mission, founded by Saint Junípero Serra in 1769, covering the founding story, the mission’s distinctive architecture, and its central role in the history of Catholicism in California.

Bus departs Mission San Diego de Alcalá for Old Town San Diego.

A guided visit to one of the most historically significant Catholic sites in California. This is where Saint Junípero Serra celebrated California’s first Holy Mass on July 2, 1769. Attendees will also visit the historic hill where Serra planted the cross marking the original Mission and Presidio location. This stop connects the morning’s mission experience to the very origins of the Catholic faith on the West Coast.

Following the guided visit, attendees enjoy approximately 90 minutes of free time in San Diego’s birthplace, supported by a digital and/or printed guide highlighting key points of interest.

Lunch: Casual dining at one of 30+ local restaurants within easy walking distance, featuring authentic San Diego and Mexican-California cuisine.

Cultural & Historical Exploration: Attendees can discover early San Diego history and Mexican-California heritage, browse historic buildings and museums, and shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

Depart Old Town by charter bus for the 15-minute return to the University of San Diego campus. Arrival by 1:45 PM gives attendees time to refresh before the 2:00 PM Holy Hour and 3:00 PM Opening Mass.

Pricing

Package Cost
$20

Pricing listed per person. Full payment due at registration.

Registration for this pilgrimage is limited to CCMA participants attending the Called26 conference.

Led by

Verso Ministries
Verso Ministries is a Catholic pilgrimage company based in South Bend, IN. With staff expertise in both Catholic ministry and global travel, Verso Ministries specializes in carefully and prayerfully planned pilgrimages. We accompany our group leaders and pilgrims along every step of the journey, with custom itineraries, personalized support, and spiritual preparation. The result is an encounter with God and others that changes hearts and lives in deep, often unexpected, ways. Verso Ministries is a proud member of CCMA and sponsor of the CCMA Called26 conference.

More Details

Registration deadline is 7 days prior to departure. Full payment of $20 due upon registration.

The registration fee is nonrefundable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Verso Ministries prepare me for my journey?

We know from experience that preparing for a journey is just as important as the journey itself. From pre-departure spiritual formation emails and webinars hosted by the Verso trip leader, to providing you with a pilgrim kit to bring with you on your journey, we accompany you through the entire process – before, during, and after the pilgrimage – to prepare your mind and heart for what you’ll encounter. And of course, we’re always available by phone or email to answer and assist with any questions you might have.
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Who can I contact for more information?

Our team is eager to help and is available 9am-5pm EST by phone at 574-383-9396 or by email at hello@versoministries.com
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What is my Pilgrim Portal?

Your Pilgrim Portal is how you will securely share the information we need for your trip. We collect all this information through your “tasks” in your Pilgrim Portal. After booking, you will receive access to your portal and can log in at the link at the top of this page.
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Resources

Discover helpful guides and tips to prepare for your pilgrimage and enrich your journey with Verso Ministries.

3 Reasons Your Catholic Parish Should Go on a Pilgrimage

A diverse crowd of pilgrims at World Youth Day

A Shared Journey: How Pilgrimage Encourages Diversity and Unity

Image overlooking the Dome of the Rock

The Pilgrimage of Life

What Our Pilgrims Have to Say

Father Kuhn

Jocelyn

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