The Francis 800 Peace Pilgrimage, organised by the Society of St Francis, began at Alnmouth in Northumberland on 17 July. The journey takes pilgrims through communities across England before reaching its final destination in London.
Pilgrims walked through the diocese at the end of July and beginning of August, and on Saturday 1 August, paused at Bishopthorpe Palace for a time of prayer before continuing their journey south.
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, welcomed the pilgrims, saying: “This pilgrimage is a wonderful reminder that Christ’s peace starts with each of us.” He said he hoped the journey would encourage people to bring peace and hope to the communities in which they live and serve.
The pilgrimage marks the 800th anniversary of the transitus of St Francis — the commemoration of his death — and celebrates his continuing legacy of peace and reconciliation.
Sister Maureen, of the Community of St Francis, spoke about the purpose of the pilgrimage as she walked from Sheriff Hutton towards York:
“Francis is known these days so much as a man of peace,” she said. “We are trying to encourage people to reflect on what peace is for them: peace in their hearts, peace between their neighbours, peace in the world, and how they can contribute actively to that.”
The legacy of St Francis
Born in Assisi towards the end of the twelfth century, Francis grew up in a wealthy family before radically changing the direction of his life and committing himself to following Christ through prayer, simplicity, poverty, and service.
Others joined him, and the movement which grew around Francis developed into religious communities for men and women, alongside a Third Order for people seeking to follow Franciscan principles within their everyday lives.
Francis also developed a Rule of Life for his followers, establishing a shared pattern of Christian living. That idea of intentionally shaping everyday life around our faithfulness to Christ has continued to influence Christians throughout the centuries and is something we encourage through our diocesan Rhythm of Life.
Today, the Society of St Francis continues the Franciscan tradition within the Anglican Communion, living out the Gospel through prayer, simplicity, service, peace, and care for creation.
Please pray for those taking part as the pilgrimage continues its journey towards London.
You can find out more about the Francis 800 Peace Pilgrimage at www.spiritoffrancis.com/2026-franciscan-peace-pilgrimage/.
The Francis 800 Pilgrims meet with Archbishop Stephen at Bishopthorpe Palace.
