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 for October 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' in October
Pilgrim Walk
Saturday 26th October, 9.45am - 3.00pm, departing from All Hallows' Convent (NR35 2DZ)
We'll gather at the convent for the last pilgrim walk of the year, which will follow the Bath Hills circular, a 6-8 mile route that circles the neighbouring market town of Bungay. This route will be familiar to some, having walked this way soon after the launch of
Pilgrims in Spring 2023. This time, the walk will create an opportunity to reflect on all we have learned through the act of making pilgrimages across the last 18 months - asking how this learning is shaping and preparing us for what is to come. Parking available in the old Day Nursery car park, off Belsey Bridge Road. Please bring a packed lunch and dress for the anticipated weather.
If you're planning on coming, please tell us by signing up
here.
'The Aroma of Incense' & Compline
Wednesday 30th October, 7.30 - 9.15pm, All Hallows' Convent (NR35 2DZ)
When you enter the home of Revd Nigel Tuffnell and his wife, Viv, you are met with the pleasing aroma of incense. The scent varies from visit to visit, though it always feels like the aroma of just-extinguished prayer. Nigel and Viv will lead us in exploring the subject of incense - what it represents, why it's used in church and the many different varieties - as well as sharing where their own interest in incense began and how it helps in their spiritual / prayer life. Because of ongoing works to the main convent chapel, we’ll meet in the smaller chapel of St Michael’s House, an intimate setting ideal for an exploration of incense. Please meet outside St Michael's by 7.25pm, to be guided to the chapel as a group. 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
