Archbishop sets off on 'inspiring' 25-mile pilgrimage

The Archbishop of York has begun a 25-mile walk on an ancient pilgrimage route across the Isle of Man.

The Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell was joined by the Bishop of Sodor and Man, the Rt Revd Patricia Hillas, and 100 pilgrims.

"There are tears and laughter and beautiful walks," the archbishop told the BBC. "It is very inspiring."

His three-day walk takes place during a weekend of pilgrimage, prayer and worship with churches and communities on the island.

The pilgrims are taking in Triskelion Way, Spooyt Vane Waterfall and Glen Wyllin, as well as walking from Ramsey to Maughold.

On Sunday morning, the archbishop will set off at 10:00 BST from the ancient cathedral within Peel Castle.

The archbishop said: "There is massive interest in pilgrimage at the moment.

"I think it's because in a fast-moving world in thrall to things shiny and new, many of us are looking for something slower and tested by time.

"Pilgrimage can't be hurried. It doesn't happen on a screen."

Hillas added: "It is hugely insiring.

"The Isle of Man has many ancient places and routes where saints and people of faith have been before us.

"Their faith and lives still shape us today.

"We can encounter the same God today that they knew hundreds of years ago.

"Stepping out, physically or mentally, can take us on a life-giving journey of discovery and encounter."

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