Pilgrim Cross began as Student Cross in 1948 when Wilfred Maundcote-Carter organised a 'Cross Carrying Pilgrimage of Penance and Prayer'. 30 male Catholic students and chaplains took part, walking from London to Walsingham during Holy Week. They had such a great time that at the end of the week they turned to each other and said 'shall we do it again next year?'

The next year it was so popular a second group had to be created, walking from Nottingham instead of London with the two groups meeting in Walsingham. These two routes are still in existence today as London and Northern!

The pilgrimage has continued to grow ever since with 7 current adult walking routes and 4 family routes.

Our demographic has diversified from those original young Catholic men who could carry the cross and their packs for the week. First women were admitted, then we began to welcome pilgrims from across the Christian traditions. After a while the students grew up and had children, now you can find pilgrims of all ages. In 2021 we changed our name to Pilgrim Cross to recognise the diverse community we had become. Today Pilgrim Cross is made up of over 300 pilgrims from diverse backgrounds and faith traditions, ranging from babies to those in their 80s.

Pilgrim Cross is an inclusive Easter pilgrimage for all Christians. You can walk for one, three or seven days our pilgrimage has options to suit all physical abilities, ages and levels of faith. Building a community with those who walk alongside and the communities who host us on the way. This journey culminates on Good Friday where all the walkers from different legs (groups) join together, young and old, to celebrate the Easter weekend in Walsingham – an ancient site of pilgrimage. An experience to deepen your faith, find like-minded people or just taking some time personal search and reflection, there's something for everyone. To more about it and to join in next year visit: https://pilgrimcross.org.uk/

This Holy Week three Salesians have walked the Pilgrim Cross Walk - Fr Martin P (London Leg) Br Jean Marc & Fr Saju (Ely Leg) along with a student from Thornleigh Sixth Form.