General News
16 April, 2025
Pilgrimage and passion: Walk of the Cross Pilgrimage 2025
The ancient art of pilgrimage has been embarked upon by many of the world’s peoples over the course of the last 1200 years.
More than just a journey - the pilgrimage seeks to reveal something new, something hidden, something inherent within us - that helps us to grow and become better people more engaged with the world around us.
Rev James Wood from the Anglican Parish of Warracknabeal will be embarking on his biennial local pilgrimage from Hopetoun to Warracknabeal during three days of Holy Week 15th-17th April - leading up to the Easter celebrations.
The pilgrimage will be walked in three stages: Tuesday 15th April - Hopetoun to Beulah; Wednesday 16th April - Beulah to Brim; Thursday 17th April - Brim to Warracknabeal.
“The busy-ness of Easter preparations often distract a man (or a woman if you are one) from the true meaning of our Christian heritage,” Rev James comments.
“It seems much harder to simplify ones life than ever before. This local pilgrimage is an attempt to strip back all the clutter. It’s an opportunity to ‘listen’ afresh - in essence to hear God’s voice anew.”
Rev James is not a stranger to pilgrimage.
Ten years ago before his tenure in Warracknabeal began, he walked 800km's across the north of Spain on ‘The Camino de Santiago’ (the Way of St James).
“It was such a rich experience and a time of poignant transformation for me personally. It feels as though I have never really left it, and I am really looking forward to these few days of reflection and insight in my own parish.”
This time around, he’ll be walking with a cross.
This ancient symbol of torture and punishment used by the Romans to deter criminals and certain characters who wanted to disturb the ‘good order of society’ at the time - became the symbol of transformation, hope and eventually ‘new life’ through Jesus’ death and resurrection in Jerusalem approximately two thousand years ago.
It ultimately represents one of the key promises of God - that LIFE - not death is God’s ‘last word’ to all people.
No matter what life throws at us - it can be used for our growth and wellbeing.
This - in essence - is the true Easter mystery - whether you believe in God or not.
In this year's biennial pilgrimage, Rev will be joined by a special guest on the leg from Beulah to Brim.
A couple of years ago Fin Roche had back and spinal surgery to assist mobility.
A challenge was issued and has been accepted to join Rev on his tricycle.
“I know Rev, and I’m excited about the pilgrimage,” says Fin.
“We’ve been practising since January and I’m ready to go!”
When asked what will be the most important thing to keep him going for the day - “Red frogs!” was the definitive answer.
Rev and Fin have known each other for several years now through the GLAD Program at WSDS
where Rev facilitates drumming and Fin has been a participant in the Shed Project for the last three
years.
In advance, Rev James would like to thank VicRoads for their support and endorsement of this
pilgrimage, and to the small and faithful support crew that will ensure that all elements of the pilgrimage remain safe and sacred.
If you would like more information please contact Rev James directly on 0438 233 630 or via email at warrackanglican@gmail.com
Contributed by Rev James Wood.
