The Small Rural Church Trail Project
Revd. Chris
MAR. 13, 2021
Help us to create a local Pilgrim Route
The British Pilgrimage Trust states, “Pilgrimage in Britain has been manifest since hunter-gatherers followed well-worn tracks, which became processional pagan pathways, which in turn became ritualised journeys in Anglo-Saxon, Celtic, medieval and Early Modern Christianity. Since the Reformation, pilgrimage has been paused in Britain. Until now.
Public Rights of Way in England and Wales and the Right to Roam Act in Scotland – freedoms particular to Britain – give us a unique opportunity to explore a vast network of green footpaths.”
In this time of Covid 19 and the restriction it has brought, many of us are craving a little peace, a chance to get out in the fresh air and to fill one’s soul with happiness. To this end The United Benefice of Kinnerley with Melverley, Knockin with Maesbrook & Maesbury is aiming to establish its very own pilgrim trail covering all five churches. It will fit in very nicely with the St Winefride Pilgrim Trail which passes right through this area.
With help from Heritage Consultant, Peter Ralley, who specialises in developing projects with church communities, our Rector, Chris Precious intends to submit a bid to the National Lottery Grant for Heritage. Peter and Chris have worked together before when Chris was curate at All Saints Church in Peter’s village of Alrewas in Staffordshire.
The project aims to develop walking, cycling and driving routes between the five churches along with a host of fascinating resources for visitors, from new guidebooks to self-led smartphone tours. There will be a heavy emphasis on community engagement and it is with this in mind that we ask for your help.
Prior to the main bid being submitted the team will submit a ‘Project Enquiry Form’ to determine whether the project ‘has legs’ before embarking on a full-scale application. We are asking for your support and ideas via an online or paper-based questionnaire. The link to the online version is below. Paper versions are available upon request.