Over 2,000 join Westminster Diocese Annual Pilgrimage to Walsingham

Image: CBCEW

Source: CBCEW

On Saturday 20 September, more than 2,000 pilgrims from parishes across the diocese journeyed to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham for the Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage.

This gathering, one of the largest ever for the diocese, saw the faithful sharing their prayers and intentions to Our Lady, who brings them to her Son, Jesus Christ.

The pilgrimage was led by Cardinal Vincent Nichols, together with Acting Pilgrimage Director, Canon Chris Vipers.

It was an early but joyful start for many, with coaches departing parishes as early as 7am. Upon arrival in Walsingham, Cardinal Nichols celebrated Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady of Walsingham. In his homily, he invited pilgrims to entrust their whole lives to Mary:

'There, too, was Mary, standing at the foot of the cross, the Mother of Sorrows. And she was also the first witness of the risen Christ, a Mother of great joy.

'Now we, too, stand in those places, day by day. So we bring her our sorrows, we bring her our joys. We bring them all to her, whom we have been given as our Mother.'

Following Mass, the pilgrims processed along the Holy Mile, praying the Rosary and singing together as one, before gathering once more at Walsingham Priory. The day then concluded with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, led by Cardinal Nichols, a fitting reminder that Mary always points us to her Son, our true destination.

This year's remarkable turnout prompts reflection: why did so many feel called to Walsingham at this moment? Perhaps in a time of division, uncertainty, and anxiety at the state of the world, we are all moved, deep down, to entrust our hopes and fears to Our Blessed Mother, who leads us ever closer to Christ.

There will be more stories and personal accounts from this year's Walsingham pilgrimage to come.