WALSINGHAM 2012

The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham

Apologies for the longer than usual gap between posts. I won't go into the various reasons but promise there will be a new post within the week. The new year has been rather stressful so far but last weekend with a group of friends I made my second pilgimage to The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham in Norfolk. As I discovered last year this holy place is a wonderful place to recharge one's batteries and put things into perspective. The accomodation and food were excellent and the clergy and staff are always helpful and welcoming.  Bishop Lindsay Urwin seems to have the ability not only to inspire but also to pop up when least expected giving the impression sometimes that he is probably in several places at the same time! There are, as you might expect, several church services during the stay (including Sunday mass at the beautiful parish  church in the village) and these are really something to behold.

The Shrine Church and part of the grounds
at Walsingham.

One of the nicest things about this year's visit was that I was joined there by cousin Alvin who drove down from Yorkshire for the weekend. Despite the long journey for both of us we arrived within minutes of each other and in time to enjoy a pint and an excellent mixed game pie at the local pub. I'm already looking forward to another visit next year with the possibility of a longer stay and maybe even a chance to serve at one of the services.  If you are ever in Norfolk I urge you to go to Little Walsingham and have a look at the shrine and the surrounding grounds both of which are open to visitors.

The amazing appearing and disappearing Bishop Lindsay with the shrine
church behind.