About Journey

The following was written by a member of the Journey to Damascus Board and printed in the Coastal Bend Emmaus Community Newsletter:

"As we complete our first year with the fantastic support of the Emmaus Community, the question is still heard, "Why is there a ‘Journey to Damascus?" Some history may give the best answer. A number of Catholics who went on a "Walk to Emmaus" and became involved in Reunion Groups tried to get other Catholics to go join us. We found there were a significant number who weren’t comfortable going to either the Cursillo or Emmaus weekend. As we talked about how to reach these Christians with our "Emmaus brethren", the concept of starting an ecumenical movement under the auspices of the Catholic Church came into being. The subsequent support and encouragement of both the laity and clergy from the Emmaus and Catholic communities resulted in the initial organization being formed and then four weekends being held. I think it is safe to say that the much of the effort that has led to the three successful Damascus weekends has come from Protestants.

The result appears to have justified the effort. Not only has a segment of the population been reached that may not have been, but the experience has fostered real changes in the ecumenical attitudes of many of those involved.

From a personal standpoint, I have been overwhelmed by not only the words of encouragement but by the hard work put in by so many of many Christian faiths to make Damascus succeed. Also if imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then the Emmaus and Cursillo communities should be pleased with the Damascus format. As we continue to focus on our common Christian beliefs while still respecting our differences, we may be gradually and slowly working our way toward truly being one in Christ.

Thank you for your prayers and support."