The village of Walsingham, four miles inland from Wells on the north coast of Norfolk, was revived as a place of pilgrimage in honour of Our Lady during the 20th century. Its story began in 1061 when a noble lady called Richeldis experienced a vision in which she was asked to build a replica, in England, of the Holy House in Nazareth. The shrine was a major pilgrimage centre in medieval times until its closure and near-destruction at the Reformation. The old Slipper Chapel was rescued in the late 19th Century by Charlotte Boyd who presented it to Downside Abbey ; the monks subsequently handed it into the care of the Diocese. It was proclaimed the National Shrine of Our Lady in 1934 and the annual "Student Cross" pilgrimages began in 1948. Walsingham was in the Diocese of Northampton until 1976 when the Diocese of East Anglia was separated off. In 1981 a larger chapel was built nearby for the use of increasing numbers of pilgrims, and in the last few years the little Catholic church in the village itself has been rebuilt. Walsingham remains an almost-unspoilt rural village of great peace and beauty, with an emphasis on religion which is highly unusual in the UK, and is well worth a trip even if you are not part of an organised pilgrimage.
Our 2012 Pilgrimage will be on Saturday 9th June.
As the time for each year's pilgrimage draws near, watch out for posters and announcements, and enquire within your own parish first to see if there is an organised trip. For other enquiries, e-mail Deacon Michael Fleming at St Gregory's, Northampton, or ring their parish office 01604 713015 to be put in touch with him.
A report on the 2011 Pilgrimage
As a Diocese we gathered in the Friday Market. A chance to meet old friends and make some new ones. To admire the statue of Our Lady of Walsingham and all the banners from different parishes. Very colourful and beautiful.
After a few words from Bishop Peter we all walked the Holy Mile along the Pilgrim Way, (this is the old railway line). The path has been laid so that it easy to walk and push wheelchairs or buggies. Not so hot for those who walked in bare feet as some did.
The statue of Our Lady was carried by Jesus Youth from the Cathedral Parish. The Knights of St Columba once again ensured we all stayed together. When we arrived at the National Shrine, our arrival was announced by the tolling of the bell from the Slipper Chapel ; we then rejoined those pilgrims unable to walk who had spent the time visiting and praying at the shrine.
There was a short gathering service in the Chapel of Reconciliation and then a period of time to picnic, go to confession or visit our Lady in the beautiful Slipper Chapel, light candles in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit or to go to the Holy Water font.
Mass began at 4pm. Beside our Bishop there were 4 priests, 4 deacons and 12 servers, all under the watchful eye of Fr Alan Williams (Shine Director) and Damian (Shine MC). The music was played by the musicians from St. Gregory's Parish, Northampton, who led the liturgy with confidence.
2011 was the 950th year of pilgrimage to Walsingham, which was reflected in the numbers present this year. Mass was celebrated outside due to the large numbers present ; the weather wasn't too bad, a bit windy and there was a short sharp shower which did nothing to dampen our spirits. The Bishop spoke of 'Mary the Mother of the Church' and as usual left us with thoughtful reflections to take home.
Deacon Michael (Pilgrimage Director) was presented, on behalf of the Diocese, with a certificate to commemorate the 950th anniversary of pilgrimage. Young Matt from the Cathedral Parish presented the Bishop with a 'Fathers Day' present, a week early but with our love and respect. As Deacon Michael waved us all off home, it was agreed that it had been a wonderful occasion.
Plan are already in hand for 2012 ! Saturday 9th June - which will be Deacon Michael's 21st pilgrimage as Director