We began our day in the beautiful village of Shere, and as we paused we prayed this prayer: Lord, give us all that we need as we set off today, let us feel the earth beneath our feet, help us to let go of worldly possessions and distractions. Give us your joy, as we experience your creation all around us. May we share unexpected moments with each other as we seek your way in all things…..Amen.
Our first stop was the Church of St. James, right in the centre of the village. We were warmly greeted by Revd. Sarah Hutton who is the Associate Minster at the Church. Sarah told us about the way in which the church served the community. Many pilgrims come into the church each week, whether they are walking The Pilgrims Way or just visiting Shere. A dedicated Pilgrim team has been formed to welcome and pray for those who come. Sarah was inspirational in the way she talked, her love of God shines from her and her passion to share God's love was most evident in all that she said.
As we left St. James' Church, we felt uplifted and continued on our way, out of the village, past beautifully kept allotments, as we came to them we paused and asked ourselves - What is it that God might be harvesting in us as we walk?
We crossed the Tillingbourne stream via a bridge over the Ford, and walked up out of the village into open countryside, surrounded by trees. After a short while we stopped for our picnic, before carrying on to the Saxon church on the Albury estate. The church of St. Peter & St. Paul, is set in the Tillingbourne Valley, with the stream running right past the churchyard.
After taking time to look round and reflect on the worship and prayer that has been evident in this ancient church, we left, passing a giant redwood tree, reminding us that despite what towers over us, we can believe that God's presence is around and within us all always. As we reached Shere again, we ended our day by visiting a cafe and having tea & cake.....the cake was so large that it defeated most of us!
Here are some comments from those who came:
Thank you for all your thoughtful planning of Saturday's pilgrimage, there was space to reflect and to notice God in the beautiful Surrey countryside. It was fascinating exploring the two churches, giving me time for a quiet space........you have a wonderful gift for leading and organising, thank you.
Thanks for another great day, Sarah was inspirational! Thanks for your usual great organisation.
Many thanks for organising such a lovely Pilgrimage today. Interesting and peaceful places, good fellowship- and the weather!
The way of Jesus is a living and moving way. There is no stagnation. Wherever he was, he was always on the way. We too are called to be ‘on the way’, on the way that leads us to God, the way of utmost love and service to all.
‘I am the way’ John 14:6
