Devon Vicar takes on Medieval Walk to Honour Friend and Support Suicide Bereavement Charities

A unique pilgrimage took place on the 11-12 October, which saw Rev’d Stuart Huntley, Priest-in-Charge for Offwell, Farway and Widworthy, leading a two-day walk in full medieval attire.

The pilgrimage was inspired by the ancient journey of Queen Ethelburga and the Royal Kentish Camino, as it started at Canterbury Cathedral and concluded at St Mary and St Eanswyth Church, Folkestone.

During the route Stuart visited ten local churches along the Royal Kentish Camino.

Stuart decided to lead the pilgrimage in memory of his friend Will, who sadly lost his life to suicide.

The event aimed to raise crucial funds for Pete’s Dragons, a leading suicide bereavement charity, as well as for ten local churches along the route who held services along the journey.

Stuart said, “Every donation will help ensure ongoing support for those in need and the preservation of these historic places of worship.”

Whilst walking the pilgrimage, Stuart wore medieval clothing, reflecting Will’s enthusiasm for history. This outfit even included medieval shoes, that he made himself!

Stuart said, “This heartfelt pilgrimage is dedicated to Will, whose vibrant love for history and enduring friendships touched all who knew him. Will’s passing left a profound impact on his community.”

Reflecting on the pilgrimage, which has raised over £1300 for charity so far, Stuart said, “It was emotional finishing the walk, arriving at the sea and then being greeted by the Lay Reader in Anglo Saxon dress at St Eanswyth’s church in Folkestone to conclude the walk with Evensong.”

As the pilgrimage drew to a close at St Eanswythe’s Church in Folkestone, Stuart offered a reflection on Saint Eanswythe, the Anglo-Saxon princess who is believed to have founded Folkestone Priory—one of Britain’s earliest Christian monastic communities for women.

“As I gave my reflection talking about St Eanswythe’s bravery, fortitude and faith I pointed back to altar and realised I was pointing at her reliquary and welled up thinking the great saint I was inspired by was laying in rest only a couple of feet away. We owe so much to these three woman of faith in fact we wouldn’t have the Church of England without them.”

During the pilgrimage, special services were held at each church along the Royal Kentish Camino. These were opportunities for moments for remembrance, prayer and healing.

To make a donation, please click here. 

Click here to hear an interview from Stuart on BBC Radio Devon.