According to the Latin Mass Society (LMS) of England and Wales, the upcoming annual pilgrimage to England's famous Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is expected to have record-breaking attendance.The LMS is organizing the summer event, which has gained popularity over the years.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, often referred to as "England's Nazareth," is located on the north coast of East Anglia and has a history dating back to around 1061.It holds great significance for pilgrims and is a well-known religious site in England.
Taking inspiration from the famous walking pilgrimage from Paris to Chartres, the participants of the Walsingham pilgrimage will gather in Ely, East Cambridgeshire, on Thursday, Aug. 24. From there, they will embark on a roughly 59-mile journey to Walsingham. The pilgrimage will conclude with Mass in Walsingham's Chapel of Reconciliation, followed by devotions on Sunday, Aug. 27.
Joseph Shaw, the chairman of the Latin Mass Society, mentioned in an email exchange with CNA on June 13 that last year's pilgrimage saw 160 participants, including volunteers. This marked a significant increase from the previous year and surpassed the attendance levels before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Shaw also expressed early indications of another record-breaking year for the pilgrimage, similar to what was experienced during the Chartres pilgrimage.
Participants engage in singing, praying the rosary, daily Mass, and confession on the road. The pilgrimage is open to everyone and draws inspiration from the Chartres pilgrimage. It is physically demanding but offers a spiritually enriching experience.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, known as "England's Nazareth," was established in the 11th century and holds great religious significance. The pilgrimage attracts a diverse group of participants, with a younger average age due to the presence of students and young professionals.
The chairman of the LMS, Joseph Shaw, noted that the Camino pilgrimage experienced a decline in popularity during the 1980s. He attributed this decline to a shift in attitudes following the Second Vatican Council, where many people questioned the purpose of engaging in a devotion that involved physical hardships.
However, Shaw pointed out that the situation has changed significantly since then. The Camino pilgrimage has regained its appeal and now attracts a large number of participants, including many non-Catholics.