Pilgrim bushwalking in the green Church

Tasmania is blessed by natural beauty and there are many close and far places that can be visited to experience this beauty. Bushwalking requires preparation, a journey away from the familiar to the unfamiliar and a sense of shared purpose and contemplation. One returns changed but the same. With practice, the experience of being in the environment and feeling the close presence of God can be developed and the sense of pilgrimage deepened. Mountains are always such an experience for me, I feel as though there are no barriers between myself and the eternal. Such an experience is to be shared, although a time of individual contemplation, in the bush or sitting on stone, is also necessary.

In an urban parish, several of the congregation have begun walking, approximately once a month, starting with close walks and planning to move further with time and confidence. Mount Wellington is always a good starting point. There are many ways to approach the mountain and despite the volume of tourist traffic and other walkers, many quiet spots and calm places can be visited. There are several small and one large waterfall and a few hidden huts.

The few basic precautions are: wear comfortable runners or bush-walking shoes; take light, warm as well as cool clothing - even when it seems warm; take a water bottle and some snacks; take a basic first aid kit; plan where you are going, for how long and consider whether everyone is able to walk the path chosen. The pace is that of the slowest person. Take your time! Contemplation and an awareness of the green world around you is very important.

I invite walkers from other parishes to contact me, if they are interested in a joint walk. The aim would be to foster a sense of pilgrimage in our own land, initially easy and perhaps mores strenuous later. Some degree of fitness and the basic equipment is required. A sense of communion is essential.

I also want to hear from past and present walkers who can tell me about the special magical and significant places that can be our destinations. Respectful and thoughtful walks can then be planned, with the aim of continuing these minor pilgrimages as a new extension of the church into the world, providing a meaningful and enjoyable activity for all. I have experience and some special places in mind, but am always learning and finding or hearing about new amazing places.

I must advise that we are all walking as an informal group and must take all reasonable care and precautions for our own well-being. As with all pilgrimages, there is some risk and that increases as the walks become tougher.

I look forward to the comments and communications from other Anglicans. If you decide to just walk with your parish or friends, then I wish you a safe and joyous experience, that refreshes you and compliments your faith! God keep you safe and give you a sense of wonder.