Pilgrimage

"Pilgrimage is a traditional feature of all the great Religions and Cultures of the world. At its simplest level it involves making a journey as an individual or group to a place which may have significance for the pilgrim. This may be a recognised holy site or simply a place that has a personal resonance. What distinguishes a pilgrim from any other traveller is that he or she dedicates the journey to a spiritual (higher) purpose and anticipates an exchange with the special place - both receiving something from its atmosphere or holiness and giving something in return, such as a gift, a prayer or simply love. Through this exchange we believe pilgrimage can bring healing and balance both to the environment and ourselves. While many traditional pilgrimages are undertaken in the hope of receiving personal healing for oneself or a loved one, the idea of healing the environment in this way is given little attention today. There is an ancient science behind this aspect of pilgrimage which Gatekeeper Trust seeks to revive and research through its programme of events and published reports in a biannual Newsletter.

Shared journeys unite people and engender respect for different cultures, the land we live upon and the environment that sustains us. A journey is an adventure that can be both a challenging and joyful experience. Above all we believe pilgrimage can contribute to a more peaceful healthy world.

With an understanding of how energies move through the Earth, it can be realised that just as acupuncture can restore the healthy flow of vital energy in Humans, so walking can help Mother Earth. Today this way of caring for the Earth is mostly a lost knowledge. Yet, historically, pilgrimage formed a central core to society. In medieval times, for instance, pilgrimage routes were established all over Europe. The Australian Aborigines still go on their "walk abouts", walking the "song lines" very much in tune with the needs of their land. Walking in this way can enhance the natural energies that flow through the Earth's crust, as can dance, song and prayer, helping to bring healing and balance to the environment and to the planet as a whole."

Source: The Gatekeeper Trust - a Registered Educational Charity devoted to personal and planetary healing through pilgrimage. It seeks to rediscover the ancient art of pilgrimage as a way of journeying with an awareness of the sacred nature of our environment.