An Unprecedented Journey: The New Archbishop of Canterbury’s Pilgrimage
Dame Sarah, soon to be the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, is embarking on a six-day pilgrimage through historic paths before her official installation. This journey, from London to Canterbury, marks a historic first for a newly appointed archbishop in recent history.
Commencing on Tuesday and concluding on Sunday, March 22, the 140-kilometer walk is strategically timed ahead of her installation at Canterbury Cathedral on Wednesday, March 25. However, the timing coincides with a significant vote in the House of Lords concerning abortion laws, drawing some critique from pro-lifers.
The pilgrimage aims to provide spiritual preparation for Dame Sarah as she steps into her ministry within the Church of England and the Anglican Communion at large. Accompanied by her husband, Eamonn, she will traverse the Becket Camino, a route that connects St Paul’s Cathedral to Canterbury Cathedral.
The path follows the Thames Path, Via Britannica, and Augustine Camino, a nod to both ancient pilgrimage traditions and her transition from Bishop of London to Archbishop of Canterbury. Along the journey, she will participate in prayer services and engage with fellow pilgrims, schools, and ecumenical groups.
Key stops include Southwark Cathedral, Rochester Cathedral, Lesnes Abbey, Aylesford Priory, and the Shrine of St Jude in Faversham. The final leg of the journey will see the Dean of Canterbury, David Monteith, and cathedral chapter members joining Dame Sarah as she arrives at Canterbury in time for Evensong.
Pupils from Ospringe Church of England Primary School have crafted a pilgrim’s passport for the event, while prayer cards created by students from The Archbishop’s School in Canterbury will be distributed along the route.
Archbishop Mullally expressed her anticipation of the journey, stating, “As I prepare for my installation at Canterbury Cathedral, it feels deeply humbling to be following in the footsteps of those who have walked this ancient route.”
Pilgrim Officer at Canterbury Cathedral, Torin Brown, emphasized both the external and internal significance of the pilgrimage, remarking on the honor of accompanying Archbishop Sarah in her spiritual preparation.
Chaplain to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Richard Braddy, highlighted the role of prayer in the pilgrimage, noting that themes and prayers will be shared on social media to allow broader participation.
“I am looking forward personally to take time to experience God’s presence on this pilgrimage, to deepen my journey as a disciple of Christ, and through the gift of the Holy Spirit see what conversations unfold as we encounter people on the way,” he shared.
This pilgrimage follows Dame Sarah’s formal confirmation at St Paul’s Cathedral, where she raised the Primatial Cross, symbolizing her new authority. Her installation is set for March 25, aligning with the Feast of the Annunciation, and will integrate traditional elements with the Church’s modern diversity.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
