What is a pilgrimage?
A pilgrimage is a special journey made for a particular reason. People may go on pilgrimage to deepen a relationship with God, to reflect on a change, challenge or opportunity in your life, or to enjoy exercise in nature. A pilgrimage may be a long or short journey, it may be alone or with a group, it may be through countryside or urban streets. People may make their pilgrimage on foot, by bicycle or car. The important thing is to set aside the busyness of day to day life, and be mindful of your journey.
Pilgrims have been coming to Durham for centuries. In fact, Durham Cathedral was founded because of pilgrimage, as people journeyed from near and far to visit the shrine of St Cuthbert. A visit to Cuthbert’s shrine was an opportunity to give thanks for this holy man and to pray for grace to lead a life infused with the same light of hope and faith.
Pray our pilgrim prayer
God of the journey,
who inspired the northern saints
to walk in your way and to bear your light;
bless us on our pilgrimage in life,
that we may find companions on the road,
learn to travel with joyful and generous hearts,
and discover your welcome at our journey’s end,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Arrange a pilgrim visit
If you’d like to arrange a group pilgrimage visit to Durham Cathedral please contact us at visits@durhamcathedral.co.uk. Groups can also add extras to their visit such as a cathedral tour or climbing the central tower, find more information on our tours and experiences page.
If you are part of the Diocese of Durham and would like to arrange a parish or deanery pilgrimage, please email Canon Charlie Allen at charlie.allen@durhamcathedral.co.uk
