As part of the Church’s Jubilee Year 2025 celebrations, Bishop David Oakley joined headteachers and members of the central team from Our Lady Immaculate Catholic Academies Trust (OLICAT) on a pilgrimage walk from the Emmaus Centre in Carlton to Turvey Monastery on Monday.
This local pilgrimage formed part of a wider diocesan and global call to embrace the Jubilee theme announced by Pope Francis: Pilgrims of Hope. The Jubilee invites all Catholics to rediscover the meaning of journeying together in faith, building communion, and finding signs of hope in daily life.
Beginning at the Emmaus Centre — a place that embodies service, renewal, and community — the group set out across the Bedfordshire countryside, using the time to reflect, pray, and engage in meaningful conversations along the way.
Upon arriving at Turvey Monastery, the pilgrims were welcomed by Brother John Mayhew of the Benedictine community. The visit included time for Mass, reflection, and a chance to experience the peace of monastic life in the beautiful grounds of the monastery.
Bishop David expressed his gratitude for the work of OLICAT staff and spoke warmly of Tony Bishop’s dedicated service over the years. “Tony’s leadership has been marked by a deep commitment to Catholic education and the flourishing of young people,” Bishop David said. “This pilgrimage is a beautiful way to mark not just a transition, but a journey of thanksgiving and faith.”
The pilgrimage also provided an opportunity for Catholic educators to pause amid their busy roles and reconnect with the spiritual heart of their mission. One participant shared, “Walking together and prayer with colleagues reminded us of our shared vocation. We are not just educators — we are people of faith, leading young people on their own journey with God.”
As the Church worldwide celebrates the Jubilee Year, local initiatives like this are helping to renew hearts and minds in every corner of the Diocese of Northampton — inspiring all to walk as Pilgrims of Hope.
