St James’ Church Joins the Small Pilgrim Places Network

St James, Normanton on Soar has become the first church in the diocese – and second in the East Midlands – to join the Small Pilgrim Places Network.

The idea to join the network was born from Churchwarden Brian and Sue Archbold’s visit to a tiny church at Clapton on the Hill in the Cotswolds, which was a Small Pilgrim Place with information about the initiative.

The network and St James both aim to create a welcoming, peaceful place to just “be”. St James’ Church is open daily, with resources, candles, music, wraps, biscuits and water for pilgrims in a well-cared for churchyard beside the beautiful river.

The Small Pilgrim Places ethos is to welcome all visitors – Tourists, Seekers and Pilgrims. St James have Quiet times, Julian Group and Taizé monthly. The church often quote Thomas Merton: “A place where your mind can be idle, and forget its concerns, descend into silence and worship in secret.”

Small Pilgrim Places are quiet, inclusive spaces for pondering and praying. The network brings people together through prayer and practical support as well as encouraging members to promote reflection, hospitality, and simplicity.

If you are interested in learning more and finding some Small Pilgrim Places, visit their website here.