Annual East Anglia pilgrimage to Walsingham 

The Diocese of East Anglia's largest pilgrimage of the year took place on Monday May 5 with its annual diocesan visit to England’s Nazareth, a place of deep spiritual significance for Catholics across the country.

Led this year by Rt Rev Alan Hopes, Bishop Emeritus of East Anglia, who kindly stepped in for Bishop Peter Collins during his attendance at the Spring Plenary Assembly of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, the pilgrimage drew hundreds of the faithful from parishes across the diocese.

Pilgrims assembled at the old Railway Station in Walsingham on a bright but blustery morning and Bishop Alan welcomed all present and led the Rosary Procession along Pilgrim’s Way to the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady. 

Upon arriving at the Shrine, the pilgrims took part in the crowning of the statue of Our Lady of Walsingham. Bishop Alan blessed the crown, sprinkled it with holy water, and reverently placed it upon the statue’s head before offering incense in honour of Our Blessed Mother.

This was followed by the celebration of Solemn Mass, where crowds gathered in large numbers both inside and outside the Basilica. Bishop Alan presided, joined by clergy from across the Diocese. Fr Robert Billing, the Rector of the Shrine, welcomed the pilgrims warmly, thanking them for their presence and offering prayers for Bishop Peter and the other bishops meeting at Buckfast Abbey.

After Mass, the joyful sense of community continued as pilgrims shared lunch together.

Picture of the Walsingham pilgrimage, above, courtesy of RCDEA and click here to see more.