The Earsham Benefice
'Pilgrims' - A pioneering new ministry
In May 2023 we launched a new ministry initiative called Pilgrims, which attracted 100+ people to its inaugural event. Inspired by ‘The Via Beata’ (meaning 'A Way of Blessing') pilgrim way and the All Hallows’ Convent in Ditchingham, Pilgrims invites companions to explore together the spirituality of pilgrimage and the monastic life of prayer, considering how these approaches to the Christian journey can inform life as a follower of Jesus today.
With the initiative now established, Pilgrims will settle into a monthly pattern of gathering at the All Hallows' Convent Chapel on the first Wednesday evening of the month and somewhere in South Norfolk for a half-day pilgrim walk on the last Saturday of the month.
Details of Pilgrims gatherings in April and May 2024 are listed below. To receive the monthly Pilgrims newsletter direct to your inbox, which details the forthcoming month's gatherings, please register here. The latest newsletter is also available to view online here.
Revd James Shelton
'Pilgrims' Gatherings in April & May
Anniversary Pilgrim Walk
Saturday 27th April, 11.45am - 5.30pm, 'Rowancroft', Kenninghall Road, Banham (NR16 2HE)
In celebration of the first-year anniversary of Pilgrims, we'll be walking from Banham, where the Via Beata originates and where the first ever way station was placed. We'll meet at the later time of 11.45am, so that we arrive back to enjoy a celebratory Pilgrim Supper, hosted by Steve and Gill Eggleton, at 5.30pm in the barn at their 'Rowancroft' farm. Given that we've now explored all seven of the pilgrimage-principles, we'll move to consider the theme of monastic life and all that it can teach us. In keeping with this theme, it is hoped that we will be able to join the Carmelite Nuns at Quidenham Monastery for 'Vespers' prayers in the afternoon. Parking available at 'Rowancroft'. Please bring a packed lunch and a contribution towards the shared Pilgrim Supper (e.g. a salad, stew, bread, cheese or dessert) and dress for the anticipated weather.
If you're planning on coming, please tell us by signing up
here.
'Pilgrims Library', Sharing & Compline
Wednesday 1st May, 7.30 - 9.15pm, All Hallows' Convent Chapel (NR35 2DZ)
An opportunity to gather and share our ongoing reflections. The full selection of 'Pilgrims Library' books will be available, offering the opportunity to choose a book to take away and read over the spring and summer months. The evening will conclude with Compline (Night Prayer). Parking available on site..
If you're planning on coming, please tell us by signing up
here.
Is pilgrimage any different from walking...?
Pilgrimage is more than simply going for a walk - it is profoundly spiritual and speaks into the everyday life of faith and discipleship. For example, the pilgrim learns to sift through their possessions, carrying only what is necessary and letting go of burdens that weigh down. The simplicity of each day creates space to pay attention, noticing the beauty of the surroundings and in every moment. Meanwhile, fellow travellers become a gift for mutual sharing and generosity. Walking long distances is also a significant test of physical, mental and spiritual perseverance – and this inevitably prompts the pilgrim to consider the source of their security and dependence.
Jesus said:
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11.28-29)
God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit We give thanks for the many lives changed and transformed by an encounter with you whilst on pilgrimage. Give us the wisdom to draw on your ancient ways in our lives today and bless ‘The Via Beata’; that it would truly be ‘A Way of Blessing’ for many.
Amen
