Our Cuckmere Pilgrimage began in beautiful weather. After arriving in Alfriston we had a picnic lunch on the Tye.
There are seven churches ahead of us and we were reminded that at it's simplest, a pilgrimage is an opportunity for us to deepen our relationship with God and our fellow travellers.
Our first church was St. Michael & All Angels in Berwick, famous for the art work which covers its walls. Painted by Duncan Grant and Vanessa Bell who were part of the Bloomsberry set. We were met by Catherine who gave us an engaging and informative talk on the church, and shared with us about the outreach the church has to thousands of visitors each year. It was a perfect start and gave us much to think about.
We then moved on to visit churches in the villages Alciston and Selmeston, both quiet and peace filled. At each church we paused to listen to one of the 'I am' sayings of Jesus, giving us time to reflect and pray.....to rest and remember why we had chosen to come on a pilgrimage.
Prayer - God of our lives, you are always calling us to follow you, inviting us to new challenges, new ways to encounter you and touch the lives of others. When we become fearful of the unknown, give us courage. When we worry that we are not up to the task, remind us; that you do not call us to be alone but have given us relationship with you and with those around us. When we get tired or feel disappointed, remind us; that you can bring change and hope to all areas of our lives. Amen
As we walked we were struck by the magnificent scenery, creation in all its glory! Through fields, over many stiles! up hills and into wooded glades, we were filled with awe for the way in which we could see God at work in creation around us.
At the end of each day we would return to Alfriston and have tea and cake on The Tye, before relaxing in our hotel and eating dinner together.......After dinner we met for either for a time of prayer or Holy Communion, before gratefully falling into bed to recharge ourselves for the next days walk.
Here are some more images of our second day, the churches we visited were Arlington, Wilmington, where Rev Shirley spoke to us about her ministry as a house for duty Priest, and how she reached out in so many creative ways to her community. We then walked up past The Long Man of Wilmington, onto Lullington church (the smallest church in East Sussex) before ending at St. Andrew's in Alfriston.
On our last morning, some of us walked down the Cuckmere Valley to the sea, whilst others drove down and walked the last couple of miles......here are some comments from some of those who came.
'I loved every part of the pilgrimage, it was a wonderful experience'
'The Pilgrimage was so special, I am taking away new friendships and lovely memories. Every detail of it was wonderful'
'These last three days have given me an opportunity to listen to other pilgrims and deepen my relationship with God.'
Here are some other pictures for you to enjoy!
Pilgrimage Blessing
May the beauty of God be reflected in our eyes.
The love of God, be reflected in our hands.
The wisdom of God be reflected in our words.
And the knowledge of God, flow from our hearts.
May the love of the Father, the tenderness of the Son
and the presence of the Holy Spirit, gladden our hearts,
and bring peace and patience to our souls always. Amen
