General News
7 April, 2023
Pilgrimage and passion – Walk of the Cross pilgrimage
As an ancient art, pilgrimage has been embarked on by many of the world’s peoples over the course of the past 1200 years. More than just a journey, pilgrimage seeks to reveal something new, something hidden, something inherent within us, that...
As an ancient art, pilgrimage has been embarked on by many of the world’s peoples over the course of the past 1200 years.
More than just a journey, pilgrimage seeks to reveal something new, something hidden, something inherent within us, that helps us to grow and become better people who are more engaged with the world around us.
Reverend James Wood from the Anglican Parish of Warracknabeal is embarking on his biennial local pilgrimage from Hopetoun to Warracknabeal during three days of Holy Week, April 4-6, leading up to the Easter celebrations.
The pilgrimage is being walked in three stages:
* Tuesday April 4: Hopetoun to Beulah;
* Wednesday April 5: Beulah to Brim;
* Thursday April 5: Brim to Warracknabeal.
“The busy-ness of Easter preparations often distract a man - or a woman - from the true meaning of our Christian heritage,” Rev James said.
“It seems much harder to simplify one's life than ever before.
"This local pilgrimage is an attempt to strip back all the clutter.
"It’s an opportunity to ‘listen’ afresh - in essence, to hear God’s voice anew.”
Rev James is not a stranger to pilgrimage.
Several years ago, before his tenure in Warracknabeal began, he walked 800km across the north of Spain on the Camino de Santiago (the Way of St James).
“It was such a rich experience and a time of poignant transformation for me personally," he said.
"It feels as though I have never really left it, and I am really looking forward to these few days of reflection and insight in my own parish.”
This time around, he’s walking with a cross.
This ancient symbol of torture and punishment used by the Romans to deter criminals and certain characters who wanted to disturb the ‘good order of society’ at the time became the symbol of transformation, hope and eventually ‘new life’ through Jesus’ death and resurrection in Jerusalem approximately 2000 years ago.
"It ultimately represents one of the key promises of God: that life, not death, is God’s 'last word' to all people," he said.
"No matter what life throws at us, it can be used for our growth and wellbeing.
"This, in essence, is the true Easter mystery, whether you believe in God or not."
Rev James has invited interested community members to join him if they feel fit and able.
Registration for the remainder of his walk is through try booking: https://www.trybooking.com/CHANN
Rev James said he wanted to thank VicRoads for its support and endorsement of this
pilgrimage, and the small and faithful support crew that is ensuring all elements of the pilgrimage
remain safe and sacred.