In July each year churches from across Essex and East London pilgrimage to one of the oldest Christian churches in England, St. Peter-on-the-wall. A Saxon chapel built by St. Cedd on a Roman military station of Othona in AD654 at Bradwell-on-Sea. This last Pilgrimage took place on Saturday 2nd July 2022.
The day begun at St Thomas’ church with a service outside in the sun. Bishop Alan, Roman Catholic Bishop of Brentwood, addressed Pilgrims and Bishop John, Anglican Bishop of Bradwell commissioned Pilgrims for their walk of a little under 2 miles to St Peter’s Chapel.
Following the walk, Rev Steven Poss led Opening Worship time with music provided by the Salvation Army band. Bishop Guli, Anglican Diocesan Bishop of Chelmsford, reflected on how we should manage our time differently not necessarily the most efficiently but effectively for God.
This year the theme was the Environment and a number of workshops were run during the afternoon, including a tour of the Renewables at the Othona Community, Eco craft activities, a Prayer gallery focussed on environmental issues and a Eucharist service in the Chapel.
The day closed with worship led by Richard Sanders from the Othona community and a message from the Archdeacon of Chelmsford, Elizabeth Snowden about our environmental responsibilities as stewards of God’s creation. Accompanied by a Worship band led by Rev Dan Pierce.
We are grateful to everyone who helped in any way towards creating such a warm and welcoming atmosphere and a special Pilgrimage journey together.
The Pilgrimage is always a real Ecumenical witness and has been supported by St Thomas’ Parish Church, the Peace Place Trust, the Othona Community, The Salvation Army, Religious Society of Friends, Roman Catholic Diocese of Brentwood, Anglican Diocese of Chelmsford, Street Pastors, the United Reformed Church, Eastern Baptist Association each contributing to the success of the day.
Next year the Pilgrimage will take place on Saturday 1st July 2023, please do come and join us for a special day at a beautiful location.
For more information contact Jenny Clayton, Ecumenical Lead for Essex for Churches Together in Essex & East London (CTEEL)
Email: jenny.clayton@cteel.org.uk