It’s around day 3 of the pilgrimage and we’ve stopped after a very rainy, bleak stretch of walking across The Fens. We settle into the rhythm of bags off and snacks out, the sharing of many different versions of Percy Pig sweets begins – I trade a Percy Piglet for a FizzyTtail which feels like a pretty good deal to me. Being a few days into this experience I’m beginning to reflect on what it means to me, especially why I have such a profound feeling of home in being here.
Tag Archives: walking
Why Pilgrimage
Pilgrimage can to some extent be understood as the sacralisation of movement. It sits in complimentary tension with stillness. There are times to be still and silent, there are times to move.
Memories of Pedantry (well, mostly)
In response to my quandary over whether I would have time to do the leader role, he said how when he was leader, it was also the year they changed the national curriculum so he was extra busy at work and said “well you just make time for these things”.
Damien; a personal view.
In 1991 I led Northern, and Damien rang me to ask if he could join us. Both of his parents had died within a month of one another, and for good reasons he needed to have a different pilgrimage that year. It would only be for that one year, but he needed it this once.
Memories of Damien Sweeney – the University years 1977
Damien was a friend to multiple generations, offering useful advice and support to so many young people, in the schools where he taught, but in so many social occasions, Christmas carols and games nights at the Henry’s over the years.
Damien you have the keys ..
Safe journey rest in peace and thank you for everything my dear friend ☺️ ❤️
Up, Up and Away
I’m sure I’m not the first, but it happened to me just the other day. I saw something and thought, ‘Damien would like that’. And a second later, well, yes.
Damien was the glue
On Northern Leg Damien was the glue, always the person most willing to take the new person under his wing, to have conversations with hosts along our route, to attentively remember and care about everyone he met. Everyone has a Damien story, a happy memory of an act of kindness.
Meeting Damien I felt I made an instant friend
Meeting Damien I felt I made an instant friend. His twinkling eyes, friendly smile, warmth, and unfailing kindness were a comforting presence on the long road.
I’m blessed our paths crossed
His kindness and love held me in the time I spent with him, his faith was deep and I know he was praying for me and so many others, I hope he still is.
Northern Pilgrim 