Walking Pilgrimage for Peace – Year of St Francis of Assisi

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St Francis of Assisi was a pilgrim who undertook significant journeys to Rome and Santiago de Compostela and attempted to travel to the Holy Land. He embodies the pilgrim spirit of humility, love for nature, peace-building through encounter with others, and the search for God.

In today’s troubled times, a walking pilgrimage for peace offers a meaningful way to mark this anniversary year. Pilgrims are encouraged to walk the Way of St Francis in Italy from Florence to La Verna, Assisi and Rome. Alternatively, individuals or groups might walk to a church dedicated to St Francis of Assisi in England or Wales.

For example, in the Diocese of Clifton, a group pilgrimage is planned for the Feast Day, with two routes of 10 and 6 miles respectively, beginning at Clifton Cathedral and the Franciscan church in Clevedon, converging at the Church of St Francis of Assisi in Nailsea.

Details of 48 Catholic churches dedicated to St Francis of Assisi and Franciscan communities in England and Wales can be found on the project website: https://www.pilgrimways.org.uk/churches-of-st-francis-of-assisi

Those aware of other churches or communities are invited to make contact. News of any Franciscan-related walking pilgrimages being planned would also be welcomed.

This initiative will be among the matters discussed at the Project’s Spring Gathering in London on 21 March 2026: https://www.pilgrimways.org.uk/spring-walking-pilgrimage-gathering

All who are interested in walking pilgrimage are warmly invited to take part and to share details within their communities and congregations.

Further information about the project can be found at: https://www.pilgrimways.org.uk/

The project is led by Phil McCarthy, Project Lead for Hearts in Search of God.