This Sunday, we'll be blessed by the preaching of the Rev. Wes Palmer, Ex. Dir. of the Preacher's Aid Society. Don't forget to wear red.
Jesus himself went on regular pilgrimages to the Holy City of Jerusalem. Early on in the Christian tradition, pilgrimages were considered an important spiritual practice. Different from touristy travel, pilgrimages had spiritual and/or religious purposes showing devotion, obedience and trust in one's faith. They were a way to connect with God or recommit oneself to faith. Pilgrimages were often difficult, dangerous and financially draining. Still today, many faiths share a tradition of pilgrimage.
Early on, allowances were made for those who could not travel for physical or financial reasons. Liturgical traditions grew up around pilgrim writings, like the 4th century Journal of Egeria, detailing her pilgrimage experience to Jerusalem.
Whether making a physical or spiritual journey, preparation was required. Readings, sacramental practices like anointing, connecting with fellow pilgrimages, and setting an intention for the journey.
For the St Cuthbert's pilgrimage that Steve and I are undertaking, there are assigned readings on Celtic spirituality, the history of St Cuthbert and Northumbria area (now known as Scotland and the borderlands of England), and pilgrimage practice. And we've met with our fellow travelers over zoom. There are 14 pilgrims from 8 states with various reasons for pushing themselves to be a pilgrim who walks 8-15 miles a day in the footsteps of the 7th century monk, bishop and hermit. Four of the pilgrims have lost a spouse in the last few years. Others are experiencing other transitions like graduating from college, or moving across the country. There are two parent/adult child groupings. Others have journeyed the Camino de Santiago (the more famous, popular, and much longer pilgrimage route across France and Spain) and were seeking a new route. Our Spiritual Director and guide, Larry Peacock, has recently retired (he used to run Rolling Ridge Retreat Center in North Andover MA for the UMC).
I have always resonated with Celtic spirituality and found our coast-to-coast hiking trip to the thin places of Ireland in 2005 inspiring. Join me in praying that my body doesn't fail my poetic imagination in this pilgrimage.
Blessing on the journey,
Rev Kelly
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