Latest News Diocesan Walsingham Pilgrimage bathed in glorious sunshine Hundreds of people from across the Archdiocese took part in the Walsingham Pilgrimage. The gathering on Saturday 14 May 2022 was a welcome in-person return following a two-year break because of the pandemic and the weather couldn't have been better. A number of coaches made their way to Walsingsham - England's Nazareth - and pilgrims had time to visit the Slipper Chapel and Chapel of Reconciliation, as well as the Shrine shop and café before Mass, which took place in the Chapel of Reconciliation. Mass was celebrated by Fr Gwilym Lloyd, parish priest at St Anne's, Streetly and member of the Walsingham Shrine Council. Fr Michael Dolman, Rector of St Mary's College, Oscott, gave the Homily Afterwards pilgrims took part in the procession to the Priory ruins in the village which concluded with a time of prayer at the site of the Holy House. The Pilgrimage was co-ordinated by Fr Philip Griffin, pilgrimage director, and parish priest of Our Lady and All Saints, Stourbridge. Fr Philip reflects on the Pilgrimage: Glorious sunshine greeted Birmingham Pilgrims at the National Shrine of Our Lady at Walsingham on Saturday 14th May. For some, old and young, it was their first visit – for others, a joyous and welcome return after the pandemic made group visits impossible. Mass was celebrated at 1-15pm, led by Fr Gwilym Lloyd, an enthusiastic and committed supporter of the Shrine who served on its council for 12 years. A warm welcome was given by the new Shrine Rector Mgr Philip Moger, and the homily, given by Fr Michael Dolman, the Rector of Oscott College invited us all as we return to Walsingham, to return to Mary the model of all discipleship. Our walk up the Holy Mile, along the pilgrim way, was a peaceful and prayerful time, as we reflected on the countless pilgrims who had travelled before seeking Mary’s prayers, and her spiritual guidance. The pilgrimage concluded with prayers at the site of the Holy House in the abbey grounds, where we thanked God for a happy pilgrimage and asked the Lord’s blessing on our journey home. I am most grateful for the clergy and laity who supported the pilgrimage, especially those who organised coaches from Stourbridge, St Chad’s Cathedral, Streetly and Walmley, Wolverhampton, Rugeley and Banbury. I would like to encourage others to get involved next year – please contact me for any guidance or help you may need. Please pray for the Shrine and its pilgrims. Walsingham is England’s Nazareth – it calls us all to unite our hearts with Our Lady and Her Blessed Son on our families, homes and diocese. Photo Gallery by Con McHugh Manage Cookie Preferences