Children’s Pilgrimage: Joyful Gathering at Walsingham

Under warm skies and the gaze of Our Lady of Walsingham, families and children from across the Diocese of East Anglia gathered on 31 May for the Diocesan Children’s Pilgrimage, culminating in a special Jubilee Mass for Families.

The day, filled with joy, prayer and togetherness, was led by Bishop Peter Collins and held at the National Catholic Shrine of Our Lady in Walsingham – a place long held sacred as England’s Nazareth.

Pilgrims arrived from all corners of the Diocese, bringing with them laughter, energy, and a deep sense of faith. For many young people, this was their first pilgrimage experience, and it was heartening to see so many children and families engaging so actively in the celebration. Their presence was a powerful reminder that the Church is not only built on tradition but also renewed daily by the lives and enthusiasm of its youngest members.

The National Catholic Shrine at Walsingham continues to be a beacon of hope, healing, and devotion. For centuries, pilgrims have journeyed here to entrust their prayers to Our Lady. That tradition was beautifully upheld during this year’s pilgrimage, with a lively procession, times of quiet reflection, and moments of shared joy.

Following the Jubilee Mass, families enjoyed the grounds of the shrine, building friendships and strengthening the bonds of community. The sense of unity among the pilgrims was palpable, creating a true atmosphere of celebration and shared faith.

The day served as a reminder of the importance of nurturing faith in children, not only through catechesis but by inviting them to experience the life of the Church in a vibrant, communal setting. The pilgrimage showed us that our young people are not just the Church of tomorrow – they are a vital part of the Church today.

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