On Saturday 25th of July members of the clergy of Wells Cathedral will complete a Sponsored Pilgrimage, walking the seven miles between Glastonbury and Wells Cathedral. The team, which includes the Dean of Wells and Canon Chancellor are raising funds, which will be shared between the Cathedral’s Bounce Back Appeal and St Margaret’s Hospice Care.
Both organisations have been severely impacted by the recent coronavirus crisis, and have seen their traditional income streams hit hard. With the Cathedral seeing an overnight drop in visitor numbers, and the hospice being unable to organise events or public fundraising activity, both have sought alternative ways to raise money to keep their doors open.
Joanna Hall, Director of Fundraising for St Margaret’s Hospice, comments:
We are thrilled to be benefiting from this Pilgrimage, and overwhelmed by the support that our local community has shown the hospice during this turbulent time. Both the Cathedral and St Margaret’s hold a special place in the hearts and minds of people throughout our community, and represent important symbols of hope and reflection for many. Offering our patients and their families spiritual care is an integral part of our end-of-life provision here at St Margaret’s, so it’s wonderful to be benefiting from this pilgrimage and we wish the Dean and those walking the best of luck.
The Dean of Wells, the Very Reverend Dr John Davies DL, said:
It will be good to walk the ancient route from Glastonbury to Wells in aid of Wells Cathedral and St Margaret's Hospice Care. Here is a very special way to support the Cathedral and the Hospice, two great causes and two landmarks of Somerset life, both with key roles in our community.
The walk will be undertaken within current government guidelines, walkers will be organised in appropriate bubbles, and they will adhere to social distancing measures while on route.
If you would like to support the Pilgrimage, there are two ways you can get involved:
You can walk with the Dean and clergy, sponsored by family and friends. If you would like to join the Pilgrimage please email sponsoredpilgrimagewells@gmail.com for further information. To ensure that the event can be managed safely and within current guidelines, sign-ups will close on 20 July.
Or you can sponsor the Dean and clergy via the Pilgrimage Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/campaign/sponsoredpilgrimagewells
Click here for more information on how you can be involved and support.
On completion of the Pilgrimage, walkers will be invited for tea at the Cathedral before a special Pilgrimage Evening Prayer at 5:15pm.