Pilgrim's Progress

We are pilgrims on a journey
and companions on the road;
we are here to help each other
walk the mile and bear the load.
(Richard Gillard)

7 July 2020 was due to see celebrations in Canterbury to mark the day 800 years ago when the bones of Thomas Becket were 'translated' to a new location. The shrine created is long gone but a candle still burns in honour of the martyred Archbishop.

Although Coronavirus put an end to most of the events planned to mark 'Beckett 800', easing of Government restrictions allowed the Cathedral to reopen just in time for a service to take place.

Canterbury Cathedral is at the end of the old Pilgrim's Way. In Medieval time pilgrims flocked to the city in hope of being blessed by God. Some travelled from Winchester, others from London. While some made the journey alone many, like those in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, journeyed together.

In 2020 Christians have found ways to journey together despite being unable to gather in church buildings. Modern communications systems have enabled us to 'walk the mile' and 'share the load' in challenging times. We have experienced God's blessing through the support of our fellow pilgrims. Our pilgrimage has changed us, as it did the pilgrims of the past. As we journey on we do so in confidence, in company and in the certain knowledge that God will continue to bless, comfort and heal all those who step out in faith on the road that lies ahead.