We enjoyed a pilgrimage day of joy, peace and prayer at Ladyewell. Each year in May, Mary’s month we go on pilgrimage to Ladyewell from St Chrysostom’s and meet with other pilgrims as part of our pilgrimage. This year we held in our hearts and prayers persecuted Christians, and all victims of terrorism and persecution. Our theme this May was Mary, Queen of Peace. It was great to come together from different parishes – and the sun shone on us!
Here are a few comments from some of the pilgrims:
It was a very special day… Togetherness and prayer with friends old and new in a holy place – such a gift! Thank you everyone.
The shrine priests, Sue and the staff gave us a warm welcome that mirrored the sun shining in the blue sky above. Our theme was Mary, Queen of Peace, and we prayed for peace and reconciliation in our world, where Christians are suffering and dying now because of their faith. Nourished by the mass, the Rosary and the water of the holy well, we prayed that our Lady would watch over us… it was a wonderful day.
Two things I particulalrly enjoyed – the squeals of joy and laughter from the children as they played in the shrine grounds, and the prayerfulness of so many and such a rich diversity of folk of all ages – and the conversations and chat.
It was a restful day for me. I prayed in the chapel alone after lunch and felt recharged spiritually. It was wonderful to talk to people from church ‘outside the church.’
Special moments for me were singing as we walked to the shrine, the personal prayers offered, such a huge variety of pilgrims together…
St Chrysostom's Church News and Views 