Diocese of Chichester

One of the churches where the pilgrims were welcomed was Berwick church of St Michael and all Angels. They were met by Revd Peter Blee, who gave a talk about the churches well-known murals and history with the Bloomsbury set. 

Revd Sam Carter from Barcombe said: "It was great to be with young people from our parish and across the diocese on the diocesan youth pilgrimage. Time spent with God and a warm welcome everywhere."

Isabella, one pilgrim, said: "It was lovely to meet with other young people and local church communities. I felt very welcome. I really enjoyed connecting with God during the part of our silent walking."

Ben, another pilgrim, said: "I thought it was a great time to connect deeper with God and meet fellow Christians who are on their walk with Christ at different times on this faith journey."

Revd Dan Henderson, Vicar from St Andrew's, Hove, said 'We loved seeing our young people enjoying the talks and looking round the churches (even if only to find more cake!). It was a really great day and the discussions as we hiked ranged from 'can you name a bible character for every letter of the alphabet?' to the Filioque Clause in the Nicene Creed so they definitely engaged!'

Bishop Ruth said: “This was a wonderful final youth pilgrimage to end our Year of Faith. During our walk, we walked and talked, prayed and praised, enjoyed generous hospitality, and reflected on God’s word in these ancient places of worship and natural beauty. The pilgrimage offered rest for our souls, and it was uplifting to share this journey with so many young people as we celebrated the heritage and faith of our diocese”.

We give thanks for all who have taken part in events throughout this anniversary year, honouring our rich heritage and looking with hope to the future.

You can view more photos from the Facebook post here:

And a video from St Andrew's Church Hove below: