Backpack blessing at Clérigos Church

Clérigos Church in Porto hosted the annual blessing of backpacks and pilgrims, organized by the União Internacional de Peregrinos Jacobeus (International Union of Jacobean Pilgrims – UIDPJ). Held last Saturday, July 11, at 11:00 a.m., the ceremony brought together dozens of pilgrims, many of whom were about to begin the Camino.

The Mass was presided over by Roberto Mariz, Auxiliary Bishop of Porto, with musical accompaniment by the Choir of the Oliveira do Douro Cultural Association, conducted by Luiz Filipe Marques. At the end of the celebration, the pilgrims and the backpacks placed near the altar were blessed.

The UIDPJ has organized the ceremony annually since 2022, always 12 days before St. James’ Day, celebrated on July 25. Open to all pilgrims, the initiative aims to consolidate Porto’s role as a place of welcome, encounter, and departure along the Portuguese Camino routes.