Hundreds of pilgrims from across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and north London will be coming to St Albans Cathedral on Easter Monday.

They will be taking part in the annual Easter Monday Pilgrimage that has been held for more than 70 years.

The family event draws grandparents, parents, young children and babies – and even dogs on leads!

Pilgrims gather in the Abbey Orchard from around 1pm, bringing picnics with them, and then join in celebrating Easter in the Abbey from 2.30pm for a service that begins at 3pm.

This year’s theme is ‘Together, we shall go out with joy!’

The relaxed event draws pilgrims from churches across St Albans diocese to celebrate together. They bring with them colourful banners, and many walk the miles from parishes near and far.

This weekend’s pilgrims will be following in the footsteps of Christian pilgrims who have made the journey to St Albans for many hundreds of years. They will be worshipping at the Abbey church built to commemorate the sacrifice of Alban, Britain’s first Christian martyr.

Pilgrimage is becoming increasingly popular in our time. People are today rediscovering the spiritual practice of journeying together to a sacred place.

As they walk, they share their stories. As they travel, they get to know each other more deeply.

For many, taking a pilgrimage – long or short – can be a profound experience. Especially, if made at walking pace in a frantic, busy world.

This spring or summer, why not make a special journey yourself? The wonderful Abbey is on our doorstep. Or you may have your own sacred space that you would like to visit.

Enjoy the journey – and arrive spiritually refreshed!

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Readers who submit articles must agree to our terms of use. The content is the sole responsibility of the contributor and is unmoderated. But we will react if anything that breaks the rules comes to our attention. If you wish to complain about this article, contact us here