Pilgrims' 80-day trek to celebrate special anniversary

Pilgrims are taking part in an 80-day walk to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the death of St Francis of Assisi, one of history's most venerated Christian saints.

Carrying his message of peace across England, the pilgrims set out from Northumberland on 17 July and are due to reach London in October.

They arrived in Gloucestershire on Saturday and a day of events is planned at Gloucester Mariners Church later.

Sister Judi, an Anglican Franciscan with the Society of St Francis in Gloucester, said: "All can join us, it is not necessary to be a Christian or of any faith at all."

Often regarded as one of the world's most popular saints, St Francis was a 13th Century Italian friar renowned for his commitment to poverty, peace and care for creation.

"I find him a fascinating character," said Sister Judi.

"He literally lived the Gospel. He did what God told him, and he took the message of peace out into the surrounding area."

Sister Judi said joining the pilgrimage had given her a chance to reflect.

"I've learnt to let go of control, really, because I'm not really sure where I'm staying each night," she said.

"It's made me reflect on how some people simply haven't got control of their lives, whereas many of us have a great deal of control over ours."

The pilgrims will take a day of rest in Gloucester on Sunday, with events planned at the Mariners Church in the afternoon.

"There are going to be some activities for prayer there, suitable for any age, just to get people to think a little bit about peace and to help them pray," she said.

The pilgrimage will continue over the Cotswolds, into Bristol and onwards over the Mendips, before heading back up towards Oxford and London.

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