Pilgrims from across the Diocese of Leeds and beyond are planning a new walking ‘camino’ this coming Lent, as their ‘first steps’ in the Year of Prayer and Preparation before the 2025 Jubilee, which the Holy Father has announced will have the theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope’.

The new, short pilgrimage is for the intention of ‘Vocations to the Priesthood’. It will take place almost exactly 120 years after Fr John O’Connor (1870-1952), a Diocese of Leeds priest, became the inspiration for GK Chesterton’s famous ‘Father Brown’ stories which, even in today’s BBC TV adaptations, still illustrate the priest’s humane wisdom, understanding and compassion as well as his spiritual and sacramental role. The new Pilgrimage Walk for Vocations will take place on Saturday 16 March 2024. In keeping with the Diocese's journey towards sustainability, public transport is recommended as there is a railway station and other good public transport links in both Keighley and Ilkley.

After 9.30am Mass at St Anne’s Church, walkers will set off following in ‘Father Brown’s Footsteps’, up Keighley Gate, over Ilkley Moor, and upon reaching the Ilkley Parish of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, will walk up to the Myddelton Grange Calvary for Stations of the Cross. The total distance will be around seven miles, which includes two steep uphills – so walking all the way will not be suitable for those with serious health or fitness issues, although the Keighley/Ilkley Road is metalled for a short distance at each end. This Lenten pilgrimage walk for Vocations is not yet an official diocesan event, so please contact communications@dioceseofleeds.org.uk for more details or click the button below.