A Virtual Peace Trail

Cambridge Peace Trail Guide

Pax Christi member Arn Dekker led members and friends through the Cambridge Peace Trail virtually, on zoom this week. The gathering of almost fifty people from England & Wales, Switzerland, France, Uruguay and America, heard about people and places around Cambridge which have a historical connection with building peace.

For example, a blue plaque commemorates the place where in 1938-9, 29 Basque child refugees were cared for by volunteers. Many alumni of Cambridge's colleges are associated with the work of peace too, such as Rev Dick Sheppard, one of the founders of the Peace Pledge Union. Another blue plaque commemorates Eglantyne Jebb, founder of Save the Children. She was reported to already be an inspiration for at least one person attending our virtual trail.

Arn showed a picture of the First World War Holy Trinity Memorial shelter which has the word 'Remember' engraved on the roof and where even today passers-by are 'invited to enter in for rest and shelter'.

The work of peace over many generations, by so many individuals and in many different ways was deeply inspiring, especially as we approach Remembrance Sunday.

Pax Christi member Carol Burns asked about why so many men were represented in the examples leading to discussion about acknowledging the achievements of women in our history and indeed our peace history. There were questions and ideas about using video and other creative approaches.

Following the presentation, Pax Christi Vice President Valerie Flessati encouraged us to consider creating a peace trail where we live. She pointed out that walking around potential sites and taking outdoor photographs is a great lockdown activity. Valerie said that thinking about what or who to include as part of the work of peace and how broadly to define the term, promotes thoughtful discussion and reflection too.

Contact Pax Christi if you are interested in taking part in another virtual peace trail opportunity, or if you would like help thinking about getting started on creating a peace trail where you are. We also have London Peace Trail information.

Email us: info@paxchristi.org.uk.

Paper copies of the Cambridge Peace Trail are available from Pax Christi, as well as from locations in Cambridge. https://paxchristi.org.uk/product/the-cambridge-peace-trail/