On Saturday, 21st September, over 2000 pilgrims made their way to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham for the Diocese of Westminster’s annual pilgrimage. Led by Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Bishop John Sherrington and Acting Pilgrimage Director, Fr Chris Vipers, parishes from across the diocese arrived by the coachload, eager to take part in a day of prayer and reflection dedicated to Our Lady of Walsingham.
The pilgrimage holds a special place in the hearts of many, as Walsingham has been a centre of Marian devotion in England for centuries. This year’s event was especially significant, marking the first pilgrimage since the Vatican granted approval for the feast of Our Lady of Walsingham to be celebrated as a feast in the dioceses of England, to take place annually on 24 September.
The day began in the early hours, with pilgrims setting out from London for the three-hour journey.
Once all had arrived, Mass was celebrated in the streaming sunlight. In his homily, the Cardinal welcomed pilgrims to Walsingham and encouraged them to open their hearts, just as Mary did at the Annunciation:
‘Now we are here in a small village in Norfolk, called Little Walsingham, known as the Nazareth of England. We are here to refresh in our hearts and minds that unique event, the coming of the Angel Gabriel to Mary, proclaiming and explaining God’s invitation to her. We hear again with joy Mary’s reply, the sublime words: “Let what you have said be done to me.” Thus began to unfold the greatest single event in the history of mankind: the birth in our flesh of the Eternal Word of God, the Word through whom the whole universe is created, come to repair and restore the damaged handiwork of God.’
Following the Mass, pilgrims had the opportunity to explore the grounds of the Shrine, including the famous Slipper Chapel.
As the afternoon unfolded, the pilgrims gathered once again for the procession along the Holy Mile. Led by young people from Westminster Youth Ministry, the procession carried the statue of Our Lady of Walsingham. With the statue held aloft, the pilgrims walked in procession towards the Anglican shine.
Upon reaching the grounds Bishop John Sherrington led the pilgrims in Adoration and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.
Fr Graeme, the Priest Administrator of the Anglican Shrine also gave an address to the pilgrims, remarking upon the unique occasion.
‘In 2018, we signed an Ecumenical covenant of which this icon is the outward sign. But this is the first time I have seen that practical cooperation and support so vividly demonstrated.
‘It is a privilege to welcome His Eminence, Bishop John Sherrington, priests and people from the Diocese of Westminster and I hope and pray that this will mark an even greater cooperation and mutual support.’
The pilgrimage concluded with final prayers and a blessing. It was a day not only of historical significance but of deep spiritual renewal, one that will be remembered by all who took part.
