Virtual Pilgrimages
Virtual pilgrimages are pilgrimages with no physical travel, using the Pilgrimage of the Word WhatsApp group.
Look at this page for more information about virtual pilgrimage, or send a WhatsApp message to Dave Smith or an email to davidborrowdale54@hotmail.com
Faithbook
Faithbook was a pilgrimage through a book, a form of Virtual Pilgrimage in which participants do not make a physical journey; more can be found on this page.
This begs the question, how does “making a pilgrimage through a book” differ from simply reading it? Well, in the context of this website, it means using the definition on the homepage: “A journey out of the heart of darkness, into the heart of God”.
So it is the intentional, exploratory, reading of a book to bring you closer to God. It need not be a formally "Christian” book, but any in which the content helps you on your spiritual journey.
Our pilgrimage was based on the book “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C S Lewis.
It was a journey in which we followed the characters into the fantastical world of Narnia via a very ordinary looking wardrobe.
Participants were encouraged to begin with the first Step of Pilgrimage, the Holy Longing, in which we are invited to ”Examine yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13.5)
For this step, thoughts or experiences that are in some way challenging can be kept in mind during the pilgrim journey through the book. The book is an entertaining adventure story in its own right; nevertheless, embedded within are Christian allegories, which have potential to unexpectedly provide beneficial insights.
To join in the journey, participants were asked to provide themselves with a copy of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”.
The pilgrimage was then conducted over a five-week period on the Pilgrimage of the Word WhatsApp group.
(Send me an email at davidborrowdale54@hotmail.com
if you would like to join the WhatsApp group.)
During the period of pilgrimage, observations and pictures were posted to create a gradual unfolding that contributes to the sense of journey throughout the book. Participants were invited to post their thoughts, observations, questions and prayers on the WhatsApp group. This helped create a sense of travelling together on the same journey.
There was no need to watch the WhatsApp group for the whole period. People dropped in and out as fitted their other responsibilities. Group cohesion came through the knowledge that all were participating in a common journey, reflecting on the same theme.
The 17 chapters of the book were read over four weeks, with the final week inclucing the final steps of pilgrimage, Prayerful Arrival and Servant Response.
Previous Virtual Pilgrimaages
Each Sunday in Advent 2024, a new Journey was published on the Pilgrimage of the Word WhatsApp group and here on the Pilgrimage of the Word website. Visit this page for links to each of the four journeys.
A virtual pilgrimage along the Pilgrims Way took place on 7th and 8th September 2024. It’s described on this page.
A virtual pilgrimage to Bardsey Island in North Wales took place in May 2024. It can be found on this page.
If you would like more information about these journeys, or anything else, please email me at davidborrowdale54@hotmail.com
I look forward to hearing from you!
Dave