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September 30, 2025
The annual Ipswich ecumenical pilgrimage walk took place on Sunday 14 September, drawing clergy and laity from both Anglican and Catholic parishes across the town. Jean M Johnson reports.
The pilgrimage traces the historic route once planned by Cardinal Wolsey, who was born in Ipswich. Beginning near the site of Wolsey’s college, the walk concludes at Lady Lane, where the original Marian shrine once stood.
Despite the threat of heavy rain, participation remained strong, with seven clergy and many parishioners joining the walk. Along the way, pilgrims paused at five points — including outside the town hall — to pray a decade of the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary, accompanied by the relevant New Testament passages. Marian hymns were sung with joy, offering a moving witness of Christian faith in the heart of a busy town centre.
Traditionally, the pilgrimage concludes with a recommitment to the Guild at Lady Lane. This year, however, the final act of devotion took place at St Mary Elms church, where pilgrims found welcome shelter from the rain. During a short service, all present were invited to light a candle before the beautiful Marian statue carved by a parishioner of St Pancras. This statue is a faithful copy of the one in Nettuno, Italy, which is believed to resemble Ipswich’s own pre-Reformation image of Our Lady.
The day concluded with excellent refreshments, time to meet friends from different churches, and an opportunity to hear about the ongoing programme of monthly talks.
The pilgrimage continues to be a cherished annual tradition — combining prayer, history, music and fellowship, while giving witness to Christian unity in Ipswich.
