Benefice Pilgrimage 2017 – Sat 16 Sep
Benefice Pilgrimage – Saturday 16 September
Never been on a pilgrimage? Come and join our annual Benefice Pilgrimage linking our 5 churches/communities by a walk which gives a chance to enjoy God’s creation and get some exercise while getting to know each other better.
We shall start at St Michael’s in Soudley with a time of reflection and prayer before continuing to walk to our next stop in St Ethelbert’s, Littledean where the pattern repeats itself. There and from there on are drinks and toilet facilities at each church (except currently Bilson Mission), with a light lunch available at St Stephen’s. After an outside stop at Bilson Mission we progress to St John’s where we end our day with tea and cake.
Much of the time we are off road on paths and tracks which undulate through the settlements, woods and fields We cover about 9 miles in total with a couple of steepish climbs and about 10 stiles to cross. Unfortunately the terrain is not pushchair friendly. If we are blessed with our usual fine clear weather, there are great views and scenery to be enjoyed – and you may walk places you have not visited before. There can be mud and some paths are uneven so stout walking shoes or boots are recommended. Also consider carrying waterproofs and some drinking water in case of need. The last two sections of the walk are less strenuous than the first two.
A group of stalwarts plan to walk the whole way: anyone with a reasonable level of fitness should not feel out of place. However, just join us for one or more sections if you feel able. And if walking is not your thing then, please do come to one of the churches for fellowship and prayer time.
Please note the arrival/departure times for each church; to try to finish in good light we aim to keep to the schedule below as closely as possible. Whatever you decide we hope to see some of you on the day.
Arrive St Michael’s, Soudley 09.30 am Depart 10.00 am
St Ethelbert’s, L’dean 11.30 am T 12 noon
St Stephen’s 1.15 pm T 2.15 pm
Bilson Mission 3.15 pm 3.45 pm
St John’s 5.00 pm T
T = toilet facilities available
Any further information or concerns contact Peter Poole (822967) or Mike Barnsley (822286).
Leaflets with all details will be available in each parish church or download one below.