The Diocese of East Anglia has embarked on a remarkable journey, the National Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope, which began with a joyful start at the Cathedral of St John the Baptist in Norwich. On a morning filled with excitement and anticipation, Bishop Peter Collins celebrated a 10am Mass, setting the tone for the pilgrimage. Following the Mass, he blessed a group of 18 brave pilgrims who were about to embark on an incredible adventure along St Luke’s Way, a 158.7-mile journey to Nottingham Cathedral. Despite the rain, the pilgrims’ spirits were high, and they were undeterred by the challenges that lay ahead. With the blessing of Bishop Peter, they set off towards their first destination, the medieval church in Cawston, a place that has welcomed travelers for centuries.
As the pilgrims began their journey, they were accompanied by Fr Peter Wygnanski, who had made a remarkable recovery from a recent illness to join the group as their spiritual leader. The National Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope is a call to Catholics across England and Wales to come together in faith, unity, and renewal during the Jubilee Year 2025. Pope Francis had encouraged the Church to rediscover the beauty of pilgrimage, emphasizing its importance in embracing simplicity, silence, and the deeper meaning of faith. For the Diocese of East Anglia, this pilgrimage is both a local and national event, starting in Norwich and converging with other routes for a Solemn Mass at St Barnabas’ Cathedral in Nottingham on September 14, 2025. The pilgrims are following in the footsteps of Julian of Norwich, who famously said, “All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well.” This quote has become a guiding principle for the pilgrims as they embark on their journey, filled with hope and trust in God’s providence.
The pilgrims’ journey along St Luke’s Way will take them to some of the region’s most treasured holy places, including the National Shrine of Our Lady at Houghton St Giles and the iconic pilgrimage site of Walsingham. These places hold deep significance for the pilgrims, who are seeking to deepen their faith and connection with God. The pilgrimage route is not just a physical journey but also a spiritual one, where the pilgrims will have the opportunity to reflect, pray, and seek guidance from God. As they walk, they will be carrying the prayers and intentions of their community, and they ask that we keep them in our prayers and offer encouragement as they pass through our parishes. The Diocese of East Anglia invites everyone to join the pilgrimage, either by walking a stage or by following the journey online. The pilgrimage website and the Diocese of East Anglia website will provide updates and information on the pilgrims’ progress, allowing everyone to be a part of this extraordinary journey.
The National Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope is a testament to the power of faith and community. The pilgrims, who come from different backgrounds and age groups, are united in their desire to deepen their faith and connect with God. As they walk, they will be sharing their stories, supporting each other, and experiencing the beauty of the English countryside. The pilgrimage is not just about the destination but about the journey itself, the people they meet, and the experiences they have along the way. It is an opportunity for the pilgrims to step out of their comfort zones, challenge themselves, and discover new aspects of their faith. The pilgrimage is also a chance for the community to come together, to support and encourage one another, and to celebrate their shared faith. As the pilgrims journey on, they will be carrying the prayers and intentions of their community, and they ask that we keep them in our prayers and offer encouragement as they pass through our parishes.
The pilgrimage is also an opportunity to reflect on the significance of pilgrimage in our lives. In a world that is increasingly fast-paced and technology-driven, the pilgrimage offers a chance to slow down, reflect, and connect with God and with each other. The pilgrims will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of silence, the peace of nature, and the joy of community. As they walk, they will be reminded of the importance of living simply, being present in the moment, and trusting in God’s providence. The pilgrimage is a reminder that our faith is not just about doctrine and dogma but about experience, relationship, and community. It is an invitation to embark on a journey of discovery, to explore the depths of our faith, and to experience the love and mercy of God. As the pilgrims journey on, they will be carrying the light of Christ with them, shining it forth for all to see, and witnessing to the power of faith and hope in our world.
As the Diocese of East Anglia embarks on this remarkable journey, we are invited to join them in prayer and spirit. We can follow the pilgrimage online, offer prayers and encouragement, and even join the pilgrims for a stage or two. The National Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope is a testament to the power of faith and community, and it reminds us that we are all on a journey together, journeying towards God and towards each other. As we watch the pilgrims embark on this incredible adventure, we are reminded of the importance of living our faith with hope, joy, and generosity. We are called to embark on our own journey of discovery, to explore the depths of our faith, and to experience the love and mercy of God. Let us keep the pilgrims in our prayers, offer them our encouragement and support, and join them on this extraordinary journey of faith, hope, and love.
