Family Pilgrimage

M for Mary

Our 2023 Family Pilgrimage took place from Monday 23rd to Thursday 26th October and focused on Mary and her story.

We focused on Jesus’s life through the eyes of Mary, including considering the miracle at the Wedding at Cana and following Mary’s journey home after Jesus’s crucifixion through the Maria Desolata, specially adapted for families. Liturgies and quiet times were interspersed with craft activities and a party with a magician. Unfortunately, we were not able to walk the Holy Mile this year as a group due to the weather, but many of the families teamed up to walk it at an alternative time.

Comments from families who attended:

What went well…?

Good, varied programme, wonderful choice of music, the craft afternoon and its activities were very well planned for the diverse range of ages. You positively encourage all children to join in, including them in the serving and the readings. The Maria Desolata was something I had never done, that was very powerful, doing something from a completely different perspective. Disco and magician, a definite hit with the children and adults on the last evening.

Involving the children and teaching them about proper liturgy (loved the stations of the Cross through the eyes of Mary).
Creating space for the adults within a mainly children focussed time (exposition of the Sacrament whilst there’s a disco elsewhere).
The food is always excellent!
Bringing the whole group together, by the end of the week it felt as if we had known each other for years.

It was our first time visiting as a family and the children loved it. They were some of the younger pilgrims, however, the 3-year-old was clearly engaged with what was happening and loved being at Mary’s house. The 1-year-old enjoyed the music and the procession. The meals worked really well, and the staff were so helpful with somewhat messy pilgrims. We certainly hope to be back again next year.

Inclusion, welcome, hospitality – rooms and food superb.

Join us next year!

The 2024 Family PIlgrimage will take place from Monday 28th to Thursday 31st October.

What is the Family Pilgrimage?

The Family Pilgrimage is an action packed and prayerful pilgrimage to England's Nazareth. There are a variety of liturgies and activities to share and enjoy plus lively music and a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the Shrine and North Norfolk as a family.