This reflection on the St Mark's Way of the Pilgrimage of Hope was given by Anna Larkin, a perpetual pilgrim, at the Cathedral of St Barnabas on 13th September 2025. A video of all four reflections can be found here.

We thank you, Lord, for your invitation, addressed personally to each one of us to journey with you over these past days. 

On the first day, graffitied under a bridge on the M1 were the words:  "Follow your soul, it knows the way". Indeed, Lord, on this pilgrimage, you who dwell in the depths of our hearts were inviting each of us to know you more deeply. 

Thank you for the grace given to everyone who said yes to playing their role, walking, welcoming, making sandwiches, transporting bags, praying, hearing confessions, and those you called to serve in very many hidden ways known perhaps to you alone.

Thank you, Lord, for the example of selfless generosity that we have seen in our fellow pilgrims - and in the parishes where we have been welcomed. It was, of course, you, Lord, who put these people on my path, so that, inspired by their example, we can grow in likeness of you. 

Thank you, Lord, that our path allowed us to walk in the footsteps of countless martyrs of the Reformation, particularly the Padley martyrs and the Beauvale martyrs.  Through their example, help us understand the beauty of white martyrdom in our daily actions and attitudes.

Thank you, Lord, for allowing us the time and space to cast off our day-to-day worries and even to rediscover a childlike playfulness. This was helped by the participation of our 'celebrity pilgrim' St Peter, our 13th-century mini statue, who day and perpetual pilgrims alike enjoyed capturing 'on location' in many a serious or less serious setting.

Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to live more simply and for the opportunity to be poor; to need to ask for water, for a rest, for a squirt of toothpaste. Thank you for allowing me to witness my fellow pilgrim gracefully accept and drink a cup of tea - something I know he would never choose for himself! Help us in turn to give generously and receive with gratitude.

Thank you, Lord, for allowing us to experience discomfort and pain. Even when burdened with the cross of your crucifixion, you imparted no harsh words and remained patient. Teach me, Lord, to do the same. 

Thank you, Lord, that this wasn't a race or an endurance test. No, these days have been a reminder that our lives are a pilgrimage together towards our heavenly home. Lord, grant that as we return to our daily lives, we may continue to keep our eyes fixed on our final destination and help others to do the same, and Lord, when things don't quite go to plan, please help me remember I am a pilgrim, not a tourist.

Thank you, Lord, for the infinite diversity of expression and life, the mystery and dignity of each and every person we have met or walked with over these past days. As a good Father, you know our most intimate joys and pains, spoken or unspoken, shared or perhaps painfully hidden, that pilgrims have carried here to Nottingham. Help us to know ever more deeply the breadth and length and height and depth of your transformative and healing love. 

Anna Larkin



Icon photo © Mazur/cbcew.org.uk, Banner photo © Rowan Morton-Gledhill

More about the St Mark's Way route can be found below.