New Archbishop of Canterbury to make 87-mile pilgrimage from London
The new Archbishop of Canterbury will embark on the 137-kilometre pilgrimage from London before his official enthronement on March 25.
Dame Sarah Mullally, who was last year named the first woman to undertake the title role, will also be the first Archbishop of Canterbury to undertake the walk in modern history.
Accompanied by her husband Eamonn, she will begin her journey to Canterbury on Tuesday, following the Becket Camino route from St Paul’s Cathedral in London to Canterbury Cathedral.
The six-day journey, which will include prayer breaks in churches, cathedrals and monasteries, and visits to schools and ecumenical organizations, will end on Sunday, March 22.
Dame Sarah, who served as Bishop of London for almost a decade, said it was “extremely humbling to follow in the footsteps of those who walked this ancient route”.
“For centuries faithful pilgrims have flocked to Canterbury and I will reflect on this tradition as I make my way through the Kent countryside, towns and cities,” he said.
Dame Sarah will be formally installed, or enthroned, as the senior bishop of the Church of England at Canterbury Cathedral on Wednesday, March 25.
The Prince of Wales will represent the King at the historic ceremony.
Charles is supreme governor of the Church of England, but his son and heir William will act as head of state in the service. He will be joined by the Princess of Wales.
The ceremony marks the official start of Dame Sarah’s public service, with Sarah delivering a sermon for the first time as Archbishop of Canterbury.
Stops along its route will include Southwark Cathedral, Aylesford Priory, St Jude’s Shrine in Faversham, Lesnes Priory and Rochester Cathedral.
The Dean of Canterbury, David Monteith, is also expected to join the final stage of the journey, walking from Chartham village to Canterbury and aiming to arrive in time for evensongs.
Dame Sarah said: “I’m looking forward to visiting local churches, cathedrals and holy places along the route, meeting people, praying with them and hearing their stories.
“As we walk this path, I will pray for our Church and our world and ask God to bless those we meet. Every Christian life is a pilgrimage, a journey with God.
“I am grateful to walk with God and with others as I begin this new chapter in my own life and ministry.”
