July marks the start of the school summer holidays for manypeople, the origins of which have long been the subject of myth. The wordholiday is derived from holy day, of which there are many in the Christiancalendar.
Holy days were important parts of medieval life as theyoften meant time off work to observe and celebrate the festivals. The conceptof going away for a holiday did exist in the past, but usually in the form ofpilgrimage to other parts of the UK, or overseas.
Historically, pilgrimage was largely considered as ademonstration of piety, however, this was not always the case, with some peopletaking part in order to explore new places, meet new people and have fun, asmany people do on holidays today. Today, many people are choosing stay-cations,rather than going away for the holidays.
Pilgrimage is about journey; a physical journey involvingsome effort, individually or in a group, as well as a spiritual journey. It issomething you can do from home visiting local churches, natural beauties likeancient yew trees, sources of water and monuments, walking along natural pathstrod for centuries.
Pilgrimage walking routes around the Diocese of Worcesterare available on our website: www.cofe-worcester.org.uk/faith-and-life/spirituality-and-prayer/pilgrimage.
