2026 is 800 years since the death of St Francis. To mark this anniversary, Franciscans are embarking on a shared journey of mission, reflection and renewal, including a pilgrimage which will begin in Almouth and finish in London, visiting all the Franciscan houses.
In the Diocese of Worcester, the Third Order Franciscans are supporting the section of the route between Clent and Tewkesbury from 23 to 28 August. This will primarily follow the Severn Way with prayers and worship along the route and an overnight stop at Glasshampton Monastery on 24 August.
On Thursday 27 August, the pilgrims will walk into city centre and stop at the Cathedral. They will be based in the Lady Chapel throughout the day where there will be an exhibition about the life of St Francis and about the three Franciscan Orders.
The Third Order Franciscans are a dispersed community who have committed to leading their lives according to a Rule of Life, while living in their own homes, working in the community and caring for their families. The Order is open to everyone over 18 whether lay or ordained. Each member prays the same prayers each day and they come together regularly for meetings centred around the Eucharist.
Those enquiring to be part of the order can attend two meetings to see if they want to travel further on the journey, becoming an ‘Aspirant’ while exploring. For approximately the first two years, those joining the order are known as ‘Postulants’ and are allocated another member to walk with them on their journey. There is then a further training stage lasting between two and four years as a ‘Novice’ where individuals decide if they are able to work with the Rule of Life before they take their vows and make a lifelong commitment.
The Revd Ruth Wintle is a Member of the Worcestershire section of the Third of Franciscans and part of the group organising the stage of the pilgrimage through our diocese. She said:
“Anyone is welcome to join the pilgrims at any stage along the way - individual walkers or rambling groups. We’d also be delighted for people to share with the pilgrimages during the day at the Cathedral or at any of the stopping places. A full route will be published soon. If you might be interested in becoming a Third Order Franciscan, this pilgrimage is a great opportunity to chat to a few of us and understand why we decided to join and live our lives in this way.”
Ruth can be contacted on ruth.wintle@btinternet.com.
More background on the anniversary and the national pilgrimage can be found at www.spiritoffrancis.com/on-new-roads
