If I were you I would start praying and even going to daily mass during the days before I went. Also I would think it a good idea to go to confession if you haven’t for quite some time. If you went on a Catholic group pilgrimage there probably would be a priest offering confession for anyone in the group, which can be a good idea before or during a pilgramage.
I would also find out about the place. Sometimes there is good information on the web for pilgrimage sites.
When I go on a pilgrimage (or a tour) I get travel books covering the area, including ones like Fodor’s that may be at your local library. Often then I find other places in the area, shrines churches, etc to also visit. There are also books that deal with shrines that are helpful, though I assume that you do not have the time to order them.
When traveling I use an ATM card for cash, which also gets you local money. It may be difficult to find an ATM maching in outlying areas in some countries though. If you do this you ought to alert the card provider that you are using it in another country.
I had better stop though so I don’t provide a long essay, and all you wanted was information on spiritual preparation.
I will be going to Belgium to visit St-Dymphna in September. Does anyone have any suggestions about how I can prepare my heart to make the most of it?
Thanks
