Pilgrimage to Holy Island

Pilgrims enjoying the stunning scenery around Holy Island [CAFOD]

CAFOD's annual pilgrimage was a great success with the weather holding out for long enough to enjoy the wonderful scenery and atmosphere

The pilgrimage, which took place on June 14, followed a route around the island rather than across the causeway because of the timing of the tides.

Pilgrims from the Hexham & Newcastle and Middlesbrough dioceses arrived on the island by 11am, before the island causeway became impassable with the rising tide.

An opening liturgy took place beside St Aidan's statue outside the Priory, then the pilgrims set off on a three-mile walk around the island.

For those not walking, a special pilgrimage liturgy was prayed in St Aidan's Church.

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During the walk, CAFOD stewards guided walkers around the island, ready to help at stiles and muddy places.

The scenery was magnificent - the sea, fields and flowers, and peaceful atmosphere of the island, steeped as it is in the ancient Northern Saints, all combined to make an inspiring and enjoyable walk.

At four points along the walk pilgrims stopped to pray a special liturgy focusing on aspects of livesimply. During these liturgies, pilgrims listened to readings and prayers.

Terry Harris, a pilgrim taking part in the walk, and from St John Boste, in Washington, said: "It's been a splendid day. At least 185 people took part in this walk, and everyone has thoroughly enjoyed it.

"The liturgies were really inspiring and left us each with the livesimply message to take home today".

Brother Damian and the community at St Mary's Franciscan Vicarage kindly opened their beautiful gardens for the pilgrims to sit in over lunch - offering an inspiring view of the coastline and St Cuthbert's Island.

At the end of the afternoon Fr Tony Owens, parish priest of St Aidan's, Seahouses and Holy Island, and Canon Dan Spaight from Christ the King, Thornaby-on-Tees in Middlesbrough Diocese, celebrated Mass for the gathered pilgrims.

More about the pilgrimage, including a video and podcast

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