Purpose of Sponsorship in the Walk to Emmaus
The primary goal of the Walk to Emmaus is to develop leaders for the church. This is achieved through service to the Emmaus community and by supporting the pilgrims you sponsor. The aim of sponsorship is to build up the body of Christ and bring spiritual renewal to Christians, enabling them to revitalize their churches, homes, workplaces, and communities.
- The Walk to Emmaus is not designed to convert others to Christ, fix personal problems, or reproduce a sponsor's religious experience.
- Sponsorship should be approached prayerfully, considering individuals who are active Christians, church leaders, or those seeking spiritual growth.
Who Should You Sponsor?
When considering who to sponsor, think about individuals who:
- Desire spiritual renewal and will bring new energy and vision to their communities
- Are the quiet backbone of their church and want to renew their commitment
- Are hungry for something more and seek to grow spiritually
- Will help keep the Emmaus movement theologically sound
- Can help build balanced leadership within their communities
Key Steps to Sponsoring a Pilgrim
- Pray First - The first rule of sponsorship is to pray, pray, pray. Let the Holy Spirit guide you in selecting a pilgrim.
- Make an Appointment - If the Spirit leads you, arrange a formal meeting with the individual to discuss the Walk.
- Share Your Experience - Be open and honest about your experience with the Walk to Emmaus. Remember, there are no secrets—only surprises!
Application Process
As a sponsor, one of your key roles is to assist the pilgrim in completing their application for the Walk to Emmaus. This involves guiding them through the steps and ensuring the necessary information is filled out on time.
- Help Complete the Application:
The application must include all required details, such as the church name and pastor’s signature. Work closely with your pilgrim to ensure the form is fully completed and submitted in a timely manner. - Set Timeline Goals:
To avoid any delays, it’s helpful to set clear timeline goals for when each part of the application process should be completed. - Cost and Financial Assistance:
The cost of the Walk to Emmaus is $180. As a sponsor, you may assist your pilgrim by helping cover the costs if needed. Scholarships are also available on a 50/50 split, and at least $75 must be attached to the application, along with a letter explaining why the scholarship is requested. - Submit the Application:
Once the application is ready, ensure it is sent to the registrar at ddulski@verizon.net. Applications are processed based on the postmark, completeness, and inclusion of the Walk fee.
Gathering Agape Letters
As a sponsor, one of your responsibilities is to gather agape letters for your pilgrim. Here's how:
- Quality over Quantity:
Aim to collect 8 to 12 letters from close family and friends. Any additional letters will be given to the pilgrim at the end of the Walk. - Agape Request Letter Example:
Check out our agape request letter example here.
Sponsor Responsibilities During the Walk
- Pick Up Your Pilgrim:
Ensure they have eaten and deliver them to the Walk site. Stay with them at the Send-Off to introduce them to others. - Bring Agape:
Bring any letters, food, drinks, or gifts for the dining room with you to Send-Off. - Sponsor’s Hour:
After the pilgrims leave for the conference room, sponsors attend Sponsor’s Hour. This is a time to hold your pilgrim’s lanyard and cross while praying for them specifically. - Candlelight and Closing:
Be sure to attend both the Candlelight Service and the Closing Ceremony.
Serving the Pilgrim’s Family
During the Walk, sponsors may help by supporting the pilgrim’s family, pets, or even their business. Sponsorship continues after the Walk as well:
- Fourth Day Activities:
Accompany your pilgrim to their first Fourth Day events, such as the Follow-Up Meeting, First Gathering, and First Candlelight. - Reunion Group:
Help your pilgrim find and join a reunion group to continue their spiritual journey.
Quick FAQs:
How many pilgrims should I sponsor on one Walk?
Since sponsoring is a big commitment, it is best to only sponsor 1 pilgrim at a time.
Should I sponsor a pilgrim when serving on the team?
It is best not to.
How soon should I sponsor a pilgrim after my own Walk to Emmaus?
Usually 6 months to 1 year which gives you time to become fully involved in the Emmaus community.
Can I bring someone who lives somewhere else to my Emmaus community to go on a Walk to Emmaus?
It is best to go on a Walk in the community where a pilgrim lives. It makes becoming involved in the Community much easier.
Why are the Walks for men and women separately?
It encourages freer discussion and allows single people to feel more included.
Can I provide special surprises and gifts for my pilgrim during their Walk?
One of the most effective aspects of the Walk to Emmaus is that everyone is loved the same. If you want to provide something special, you may do so, IF you provide the same thing for everyone on that Walk. This is referred to as Agape.