Visitation of Seven Churches

Join the ancient Holy Thursday Tradition

April 2, 2026

You’re invited to participate in the “Visitation of Seven Churches,” hosted by parishes throughout the Diocese of Orange. After Holy Thursday Mass at St. Kilian, continue to six other churches throughout the night to pray and meditate on the Lord’s Passion. St. Kilian will hold adoration in the Parish Hall until midnight

What is the Visitation of Seven Churches?

Following the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, there’s an ancient Catholic tradition to make a pilgrimage to seven churches. Each of the seven churches mirrors the final seven places Christ visited – from the moment he entered his Passion to His Death at Calvary. We can trace the origins of this Lenten tradition to the mid-16th century in Rome. Saint Philip Neri (1515–1595), also known as the "Second Apostle of Rome" after Saint Peter, led many devotees on a walking pilgrimage through the cobblestone streets of Rome, visiting the seven basilicas.

What do I do at each church?

You can kneel before the Altar of Repose at each church and spiritually accompany Christ in adoration by reflecting on each of the final seven stations where Christ journeyed before His Passion and Death. The Diocese of Orange has put together a guided meditation for you to use during your pilgrimage.

What churches are participating in our Diocese?