Revd Canon Kelvin Inglis, Rector of St Thomas’s, Salisbury, shares this story:
Cyclists from the Diocese of Bristol stopped off at two churches in the diocese, along their 90-mile pilgrimage route to Winchester Cathedral this week!
Setting out on the gloriously sunny afternoon of the Pentecost Bank Holiday, the pilgrims arrived at Holy Trinity, Bradford on Avon where they were welcomed with a very successful BBQ in the churchyard and a visit to a local hostelry. The hardiest of the pilgrims bedded down on the floor of the church before setting off with their support team in hot pursuit. They arrived to enjoy the delights of a night out in Salisbury, before sleeping over in St Thomas's Church.
'Champing' is a unique concept of camping overnight in historic churches was brought to fruition by The Churches Conservation Trust, the national charity protecting historic churches at risk. It is a great way to fundraise for your church!
The morning brought a celebration of the Eucharist on the Feast of the Visitation and then, fortified by bacon butties, the intrepid travelers set out on the last leg of their pilgrimage to Winchester.
This was a great experience for guests and hosts alike.