Virtual Refectory: 'Been there, done that'

Pilgrims and Pilgrimage: A guide

Hello, my lovely Ecclesiasticals.

I saw that my recent St Cuthbert’s Way post was of particular interest—yet I realised I haven’t gone into too much detail on the actual meaning and history of pilgrimage (I know, for shame). To understand the significance of these route ways, it might be an idea then to convey just how important they were in the Middle Ages, and again to break a few myths in the process. Enjoy!

Pilgrims' Path, Causeway, Lindisfarne.

Give me my scallop-shell of quiet,
My staff of faith to walk upon,
My scrip of joy, immortal diet,
My bottle of salvation,
My gown of glory, hope’s true gage;
And thus I’ll take my pilgrimage.
from The Passionate Man’s Pilgrimage
— Sir Walter Raleigh, c.1603