This is a text-only version of an article first published on Friday, 15 August 2014. Information shown on this page may no longer be current.
by Sarah MeyrickTHE Thames Pilgrim Way is one step closer to becoming a reality, thanks to the launch of a brand new website.
The site has gone live ahead of Bishop John's farewell Pilgrimage later this month.
Jeremy Welch "The website shows the ten stages we have created out of the 104-mile route," says Sarah Meyrick, who is managing the project.
"There are maps, directions, a list of local facilities, and a spiritual reflection for each of the ten days. While you can view the site from a desktop computer, laptop or tablet, it is also designed to work especially well on smartphones as we think people will want to use the information while they are out and about. "Plans for September's Pilgrimage are progressing well.
The retired Bishop of Hereford, the Rt Revd Anthony Priddis, who is now an Assistant Bishop in the Gloucester Diocese, will join the party to bless the pilgrims as they set off from Radcot on the first day (Thursday 18 September).
At the other end, the Bishop of Kensington, the Rt Revd Paul Williams, will greet the pilgrims and join their celebrations when they arrive in Runnymede (Sunday 28 September). It is hoped that Bishop Jan-Olof (from Växjö) and Bishop Ossie (from Kimberley and Kuruman) will be among the pilgrims.
A number of people have signed up to walk the whole route; others are choosing to dip in and out.
Our own Area Bishops and Archdeacons are taking part when possible.
The Pilgrimage pauses in Oxford when we gather as a diocesan family for the Grand Day Out on 20 September. "I'm really looking forward to these eleven days," says Bishop John.
"The Grand Day Out is the third of our three 'Imagining Faith' events for 2014, when we're trying to imagine what faith can be like when we set it free from artificial constraints.
There are some fascinating speakers lined up.
I'm particularly thrilled to be given the task of interviewing the wonderful Mary Berry.
But there really is something for everyone - and then we all gather for worship on Christ Church Meadow. "Launching the Thames Pilgrim Way gives me the chance to journey through all four archdeaconries of our great diocese, to celebrate our Christian heritage and spend time with people from right across the patch.
It's going to be a farewell to remember.
Do join me, even for an hour or two. "