Diocese Unites in Joyful Pilgrimage to Walsingham

On Monday, 5 May 2025, the Diocese of East Anglia gathered in faith and fellowship for its annual pilgrimage to Walsingham, England’s Nazareth and a place of deep spiritual significance for Catholics across the country.

Led this year by The Rt Rev’d Alan Hopes, Bishop Emeritus of East Anglia, who kindly stepped in for Bishop Peter Collins during his attendance at the Spring Plenary Assembly of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, the pilgrimage drew hundreds of the faithful from parishes across the diocese.

Pilgrims assembled at the old Railway Station in Walsingham on a bright but blustery morning. Spirits were high as Bishop Alan welcomed all present and led the Rosary Procession along Pilgrim’s Way to the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady. As the procession moved through the Norfolk countryside, the joyful mysteries of the Rosary were prayed with devotion. The air was filled with hymns led by David Grealy, Director of Music for the diocese, fostering a sense of unity, prayer, and shared purpose.

Upon arriving at the Shrine, the pilgrims took part in the crowning of the statue of Our Lady of Walsingham — an emotional and symbolic moment. Bishop Alan blessed the crown, sprinkled it with holy water, and reverently placed it upon the statue’s head before offering incense in honour of Our Blessed Mother. The act underscored the deep reverence the faithful hold for Our Lady, especially in this sacred place of pilgrimage.

This was followed by the celebration of Solemn Mass, where crowds gathered in large numbers both inside and outside the Basilica. Bishop Alan presided, joined by clergy from across the Diocese. Fr Robert Billing, the Rector of the Shrine, welcomed the pilgrims warmly, thanking them for their presence and offering prayers for Bishop Peter and the other bishops meeting at Buckfast Abbey.

After Mass, the joyful sense of community continued as pilgrims shared lunch together. The afternoon brought moments of quiet reflection during Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, along with the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The day concluded with Solemn Benediction, drawing the pilgrimage to a peaceful and prayerful close.

Walsingham holds a special place in the hearts of English Catholics as a sanctuary of prayer, healing and hope. For many who walked Pilgrim’s Way, the experience was profoundly moving — a chance to reconnect with their faith, their community, and their Blessed Mother.

The annual pilgrimage once again proved to be a beautiful expression of devotion and unity, reminding all present of the enduring power of prayer and the maternal care of Our Lady of Walsingham.

Photographs from the pilgrimage are available here.

Comments