A successful Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Walsingham
On Saturday 27th April, Bishop Philip Moger, Auxiliary Bishop ofr Southwark and former Rector of the Walsingham National Catholic Shrine, led the Annual Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Walsingham, accompanied by several members of Southwark clergy and around 180 lay-pilgrims
Fathers Christopher Pearson and James Clark with Bishop Philip Moger, Canon Michael Branch and lay-pilgrims at Walsingham.
Walsingham Shrine came into being through three Marian visions in the Middle Ages to Richeldis de Faverches, a Christian noblewoman and the Lady of Walsingham Manor. Our Blessed Mother asked Richeldis to build a replica, on her own grounds, of the Holy House where the Annunciation took place over 2000 years ago.
Despite extensive building challenges, according to the Pynson Ballad (c.1485), the Holy House was miraculously completed in 1061, with angels witnessed singing as they departed by Richeldis. It became known as 'England's Nazareth': a place of devotion for crusaders and a safe place of prayer during the crusades themselves. Our Lady promised that 'All who come there shall find help in their need', and pilgrims are still encouraged to bring personal petitions, and those of family and friends, to seek the intercession of Our Lady of Walsingham.
During the Archdiocesan Southwark Pilgrimage, all welcomed the opportunity to attend Confession, Adoration and to pray the Rosary before participating in a special Marian Pilgrimage Mass celebrated by Bishop Moger and Archdiocesan clergy. St George's Cathedral's Director of Music, Jonathan Schranz, led the pilgrims in joyful singing and Deacon Frazer Bellfield assisted during the liturgy and in leading the Rosary on the coach.
During the Mass, Bishop Philip reminded the pilgrims that, like the challenging building of the replica Holy House, we may face difficulties in our life journey, but that Mary is a mother who watches over her children, cares for them and intervenes: "The reassurance given to Mary is the reassurance that each of us is given: 'Do not be afraid'"
Following Mass and lunch, the pilgrims walked in procession with spiritual banners to the ancient Abbey grounds for afternoon Benediction, with those unable to walk transported by bus. Afterwards, there was an opportunity for pilgrims to relax together and enjoy shopping and local hospitality, while some took the opportunity to visit the Anglican Shrine.
As Christians, we are all on a pilgrimage toward our heavenly home. May we have the courage to place all our needs before Mary, who points the way to her son, in whom we can trust.
