Happy New Year and a joyful Feast of the Epiphany, when we remember the visit of the wise men or Magi to the infant Jesus!

In his 2025 Christmas Message King Charles remarked on the significance of pilgrimage for our modern world, especially at Christmas:

‘The wise men made a pilgrimage from the east to worship at the cradle of Christ; and the shepherds journeyed from field to town in search of Jesus, the saviour of the world. In each case, they journeyed with others, and relied on the companionship and kindness of others. Through physical and mental challenge, they found an inner strength.’

The late Pope Francis wrote an address for his general audience of 19th February 2025 about the Epiphany, but was unable to deliver it due to illness. In the text Francis pointed out that the Magi represent us all: ‘The Magi thus become the first believers among the pagans, the image of the Church drawn together from every language and nation.’ The Pope concluded with this encouragement:

'Dear brothers and sisters, let us, too, follow in the footsteps of the Magi, these “pilgrims of hope” who, with great courage, turned their steps, hearts and goods towards the One who is the hope not only of Israel but of all peoples. Let us learn to adore God in His smallness, in His kingship that does not crush but rather sets us free and enables us to serve with dignity. And let us offer Him the most beautiful gifts, to express our faith and our love.’

On Tuesday 6th January 2026, the Feast of the Epiphany, Pope Leo XIV will close the Holy Door in St Peter’s Basilica, Rome marking the end of the 2025 Jubilee. Its theme ‘pilgrims of hope’ inspired the national Pilgrimage of Hope in England & Wales, which blessed our nations with the Sign of the Cross and the Gospels. 641 miles were walked, 12,257 feet climbed, over 45 days along 4 routes, by 20 perpetual pilgrims who walked the full distance and over 250 day pilgrims who walked for one or more days. I want to express my gratitude to all those who took part by walking, welcoming, providing food and accommodation, transporting rucksacks or praying. Thanks are especially due to the Sisters of the Holy Cross who supported the pilgrimage. We tried to embody their values of compassion, faith, prayer and community.

The concluding meeting of pilgrims from all 4 ways at St Barnabas' Cathedral in Nottingham was a joyful occasion. We were welcomed by Bishop Patrick McKinney, the Bishop of Nottingham, and were presented with a message and Apostolic Blessing from Pope Leo.