More than 100 churches across the North of England have signed up to become PilgrimPilgrim 1. In the New Testament and Christian thought, someone engaged in the Christian journey through life towards heaven. 2. Someone who journeys to holy places (such as biblical sites or shrines of the saints) to seek God's help, to give thanks, or as an act of penance Places within the first week of the launch by FaithFaith 1. Belief and trust in someone or something. 2. Acceptance of particular religious teachings. in the North.
Theo Sheridan-Watts, Programme Manager for Faith in the North, said:
“It’s heartening to see churches embracing this invitation so readily. To see over 100 churches sign up in such a short space of time shows just how much our church communities want to respond to the spiritual curiosity we’re seeing around us.
“Our hope is the network will continue to grow and that it will help churches respond creatively and confidently to those who are seeking peace, reflection, and connection in sacred spaces.”
Any church, in any context, is invited to become a Pilgrim Place – that is a welcoming, peaceful, safe space where visitors can pause, explore, and deepen their spiritual journey.
Alongside this, Faith in the North has developed a new boxset of resources for schools, focused on pilgrimage and the Northern Saints. The boxset includes collective worshipWorship 1. Doing homage and giving honour and respect to God. The Bible includes a wide range of physical expression in worship, including bowing down, lifting hands, dancing, processions and singing. The main day on which Christians gather for communal worship is Sunday (the day when Christ is believed to have risen from the dead). 2. Christian liturgy including sung material and prayers of thanksgiving and praise. resources, guidance for visits to churches, and a new pilgrimage song designed for young voices. A programme of introductory webinars for schools will run on 3 and 4 February.
The Pilgrim Place resource pack is an accessible, easy‑to‑use set of tools. It includes:
- Clear welcome signage
- ‘Being a Pilgrim’ prayer cards
- Illustrated reflective trails
- “Pilgrim Explorer Cards” for children and young people
- A practical toolkit of ideas to help churches use their buildings to welcome visitors
Churches interested in becoming a Pilgrim Place can find out more and sign up via the Faith in the North website.
Pilgrim Places
Discover Pilgrim Places or find out how your church
could join in