Faith Journeys

03/20/2025

St. Cuthbert and the Island of Lindisfarne

Today is the Saint’s Day of the quintessentially British Saint, Cuthbert of Lindisfarne. Born around 634, he was a monk, bishop, and hermit. He has ties to the monasteries of both Melrose and Lindisfarne (also known as Holy Island). It is said that he decided to become a monk after having a vision on the same night that St. Aidan, the founder of Lindisfarne Monastery had died.

The Isle of Lindisfarne is located a little over a mile from the English shoreline, into the North Sea, and about 70 miles South of Edinburgh. Geographically, it is unique to the English coastline, as it's a tidal island. That means that twice a day (as the waters ebb and flow) it is accessible by land. Yes. You can actually walk to the island. But it is important to watch the tidal timetable on the day you visit. When the tide does come back in, it comes in quickly.

The history of Holy Island is one that many people don't realize they know. If you've ever watched a movie or TV show about Vikings you know that they discovered a passage to the West and sailed to a new land. They raided and pillaged a monastery they found and murdered nearly everyone residing there. They then went on to the conquer most of England. The first place they landed, and the monastery they plundered and destroyed, was the Priory of Lindisfarne.

While visiting the island, be sure to see the ruins of the original priory, the Parish Church of St. Mary the Virgin, and the newly restored castle. You can wander around the windswept landscape and imagine what it would have been like to have been one of the first Christians in that part of the world.

If you’d like to visit Holy Island or one of the many great pilgrimage stops in “The Borders” area (Northern England and Southern Scotland), reach out to us. We’ll consult with you to build the perfect itinerary to learn more about the live St. Cuthbert and any of the other saints associated with the area.

03/18/2025

This week’s journey takes us into the city of Jerusalem and to the site of the Pool of Bethesda. Although it is mentioned in the Gospel of John, not much was known about the physical site until the 19th century.

In the fifth chapter of John, the gospel described a scene where Jesus heals a paralyzed man who had been coming to the pools for 38 years, but there was no one to help him into the water. Jesus told the man, “Stand up, take your mat and walk.” And he did!

If you are leading a group to Jerusalem and are visiting the Pools of Bethesda, make sure to stop and St. Anne’s. (And plan on singing a hymn in this beautiful site. You will sound like a choir of angels!)

For more information of visiting Jerusalem or the Holy Land, please contact Faith Journeys. The most trusted name in pilgrimage travel.

03/17/2025

Today, we honor St. Patrick, who died on March 17, 461. He is the patron saint of Ireland and probably the most recognized saint, outside of biblical times. On this day, when the whole world (no matter your nationality) becomes Irish, we wish a happy St. Patrick’s Day. But what do we really know about the saint and his life?

St. Patrick (whose given name was probably Maewyn Succat) was born in Roman controlled Britain in the late 4th century. At the young age of 16, he was kidnapped and taken to Ireland to be a slave. He eventually escaped his captors and returned to his family in Britain. While at home, he had a dream that God was calling him to minister to the Irish and after some years of religious education in Paris, he returned to convert the Irish to Christianity. By the time of his death, he had established multiple monasteries, churches, and founded schools throughout Ireland.

There are many sites around Ireland that anyone interested in St. Patrick should include on their itinerary. From the Hill of Slane, in County Meath, St. Patrick’s Well, in County Tipperary, Croagh Patrick, in County Mayo, to the Rock of Cashel, in Tipperary, the country is dotted with sites associated with the life of the saint. One of the most meaningful sites is to visit the grave of St. Patrick at Down Cathedral, where groups can pray, reflect and worship at his tomb.

Although many legends are associated with Patrick (like driving the snakes out of Ireland and using a shamrock to explain the Trinity), the most powerful message he gives us today, is to love our neighbors and to share God’s love with everyone.
If you are interested in walking in the steps of St. Patrick or any of the other Celtic saints in Ireland, Scotland, England or Wales, please contact us.

Faith Journeys offers unparalleled knowledge and service in Celtic Christianity centered pilgrimage travel and religious/spiritual group travel to other sites throughout the world.

03/14/2025

Happy Purim!

Purim commemorates the events described in the Book of Esther, set in ancient Persia. Haman, an advisor to King Ahasuerus, plotted to kill all the Jews. Queen Esther, secretly Jewish, revealed her identity and bravely convinced the king to stop Haman's plan. Today, in Jewish culture the victory over adversity is celebrated with festive traditions - costumes, festive meals, and lots of noise.

03/12/2025

Today we celebrate the feast day of Pope Gregory I, also referred to as Saint Gregory the Great. Born around 540, he is best known for writings (more than any of his predecessors), his many reforms to the church, and his codification of the church music of his time.

Today, we still find elements of Gregorian Chant in our modern worship. And the music notation system that we use, today, is a direct result of the system started by Gregory in the 6th century. Because of this, Gregory the Great is recognized as the patron saint of musicians and singers.

Faith Journeys and our sister company, Music Celebrations International have partnered to offer British Choir Residencies at Cathedral, Abbeys, and historical Churches through the United Kingdom. Our team can help arrange a stay of a few days to a week at one of these fantastic sites where your choir takes its place as the “Choir in Residency”, filling all of the musical needs of that community for the time you are present. This usually means singing numerous services of Evensong and at least one service of a sung Mass.

While very popular with Episcopal Church choirs, there is no requirement on denomination. Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, Lutheran, or any other group is welcome to participate in one of these residencies. The only prerequisite is that you are dedicated to the importance of music in worship.

Some recent residency experiences we’ve arranged include time at:
Exeter Cathedral, Durham Cathedral, Bath Abbey, York Minster, Ely Cathedral, St. Edmundsbury Cathedral, Coventry Cathedral, and St. Alban’s Cathedral
If you’re interested in learning more about British Choir Residency, please contact Faith Journeys or Music Celebrations International.

Music Celebrations International is pleased to introduce our Cathedral Choir Residency program to experience the rich English choral traditions in the UK.

03/11/2025

This week, we continue or walk through the Holy Land with a visit to Cana and the site of Jesus’ first miracle, at the wedding feast:
Cana is a small town in Galilee, just five miles northeast of Nazareth. Within the city there are two churches, the Franciscan Wedding Church and a Greek Orthodox Church. Some ruins from ancient Cana can be found on a small hill near the city.

For more information about planning your walk in the Holy Land, contact Faith Journeys and let us help you be becoming a ministry partner through pilgrimage travel.

03/10/2025

While we have introspection during Lent, recognizing the Christian roots of many American holidays, it's equally important to understand the significant celebrations of our Muslim and Jewish neighbors. While many American holidays stem from Christian traditions, expanding our understanding to include other faiths enriches our communities. Paul's actions in Acts 17 show that knowledge of our neighbors' beliefs is crucial for communication and understanding. By observing our neighbors’ practices and engaging with their culture, we can follow Paul's example and live harmoniously among diverse communities.

To respectfully support your Muslim neighbors during the last few weeks of Ramadan:

• Offer warm wishes for a Happy Ramadan.
• Be aware of their fasting during daylight hours when planning social events.
• Recognize potential fatigue, especially as the day ends.
• Avoid casual jokes about fasting, respecting its spiritual significance.
• If invited, embrace the opportunity to share an iftar meal.

03/05/2025

As we start down the path of Lent and focus on the wilderness of Juda, I’m reminded of the folk hymn, “Jesus Walked this Lonesome Valley”.

Jesus walked this lonesome valley;
he had to walk it by himself.
Oh, nobody else could walk it for him;
he had to walk it by himself.

Today, we start the penitential season of Lent and the 40 days of preparation leading up to Easter. Last year, due to conflict in the Holy Land, pilgrims were not able to safely travel to Israel. This year, we look forward to groups, once again, traveling to Israel, Jordan, and Egypt to once again walk in the footsteps of Jesus, the Apostles, and other Biblical figures.

This year, we would like to focus on Israel for a 40-day journey through the land of the Bible and the holy places where Jesus walked. Join us as each week we explore a region, city or site associated with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ and the early leaders of the church.

What better place to start our Lenten journey than in the same place Jesus started his forty day fast. The Gospels of both Luke and Mark mention the event that starts with Jesus, being led by the Spirit into the wilderness and culminates with him being tempted by the Devil.

In our industrial and overgrown world, it’s hard to imagine being somewhere so desolate and remote that you wouldn’t see another person for forty days. But, in biblical times, the desert area south of Galilee is remote, even today. At over 550 sq. miles, when driving through the area, it is easy to think of how alone Jesus must have felt during that time.

03/04/2025

Why the revelry of Mardi Gras?

The name 'carnival,' from Latin phrases like 'farewell to meat,' hints at its purpose: a last hurrah before Lent. As Lent demanded strict fasting and prayer, the days before Ash Wednesday were a time to indulge in rich foods and enjoy social gatherings, a stark contrast to the solemnity that followed.

One of the most ornate celebrations is The Venice Carnival, a globally recognized and ancient annual event. takes place each year in February. It begins around two weeks before Ash Wednesday and ends on Shrove Tuesday, also known as Fat Tuesday.

Venice Carnival's hallmark is its elaborate masks and costumes. Historically, the masks were essential, not just beautiful. They functioned to obscure identity, effectively leveling social hierarchies within the vibrant, masked crowds.

03/04/2025

Tomorrow Lent begins. So today, we should eat pancakes!

02/27/2025

George Herbert (1593–1633) is celebrated as one of the finest devotional poets in English literature. Born into an affluent family in Montgomery, Wales, Herbert received an exceptional education, studying at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he excelled in academics and became a skilled orator. His early ambitions seemed directed toward a career in public service, but his spiritual calling ultimately led him to the Church of England.

Herbert’s poetry, most notably collected in The Temple, reflects his deep religious conviction and his struggles with faith, sin, and redemption. His works, such as “The Altar” and “Love (III),” are celebrated for their intricate structure, lyrical beauty, and profound theological insights. Herbert’s poems often explore the relationship between God and humanity, blending personal introspection with universal themes of grace and devotion.

To learn more about George Herbert and his works, below is a great resource to get started

Poems, readings, poetry news and the entire 110-year archive of POETRY magazine.

02/26/2025

People were moved to tears and prayers. Our evening debrief sessions were helpful for people to process what they had seen and experienced. During a time when there is a move to suppress our country's history of slavery and its long-term impact on our society, this pilgrimage provides a truth that is hard to deny.

02/25/2025

The year 2025 is shaping up to be a great year for group pilgrimage travel! With the current restrictions on trips to Israel, many organizers are turning to Greece, a destination rich in biblical history and spiritual significance.

Why Greece?
Greece offers a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul, one of the most influential figures in early Christianity. Paul preached in many notable locations across Greece, including Mars Hill in Athens, Berea (Veria), and Corinth, and addressed key cities in his epistles. These cities—Corinth, Thessalonica, and Berea—hold deep historical and scriptural resonance for modern pilgrims.

Paul’s journey through Greece also included stops in Thessaloniki, Philippi, Neapolis, and Crete, making this region a treasure trove of biblical heritage. Pilgrims can walk where Paul walked, visit the ancient ruins of Corinth, and stand in the very places where he delivered his powerful sermons.

Today’s pilgrims to Greece have two main options: a land-based itinerary or a combination of land and a Greek Island cruise. Each offers its own unique advantages:

1. Land-Based Itinerary
o Explore Athens, Corinth, Berea, and Thessaloniki.
o Visit significant archaeological sites and churches tied to Paul’s ministry.
o Dive deep into the cultural and spiritual atmosphere of mainland Greece.
2. Greek Island Cruise
o Add stops in Turkey, including Ephesus, where Paul preached.
o Visit Patmos, where the Apostle John received the vision for the Book of Revelation.
o Experience the beauty of the Greek islands, blending scriptural exploration with serene landscapes.

Whether on land or sea, a pilgrimage to Greece offers an unforgettable spiritual experience, immersing travelers in the stories and landscapes of the New Testament.
For more information or to plan your group pilgrimage, contact Faith Journeys at [email protected] or call 877-732-4845. Make 2025 a year of faith, discovery, and connection.

02/24/2025

I was so moved by the courage and grit of the civil rights activists. Reading “Letter from Birmingham Jail” at Kelly Ingram Park was very powerful. Our evening reflections were wonderful ways to connect about what we had seen and felt during the day and to process our emotions. And – to think about next steps for us to do something!

02/20/2025

If you’re planning on attending the Episcopal Parish Network Annual Conference in Kansas next month, Faith Journeys will once again be a Sponsor. If you have any questions about group pilgrimage travel, please stop by our table.

Our pilgrimage offerings are completely customizable and designed specifically for your group’s individual needs. Our pilgrimage consultants will work with you to plan an itinerary that is grounded in spirituality and constructed to allow time for reflection, prayer, and corporate worship.

Popular destinations for 2025 and 2026 include:

England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales – to study church history and the lives of the saints
Greece and Turkey – to explore the live and letters of the Apostle Paul

Alabama, Mississippi, and Georgia – to dive deeply into the issues of social justice and racial equity

In collaboration with our sister company, Music Celebrations International (MCI), we also offer Cathedral Residencies for choirs wishing to spend a week (or less) singing the daily offices and services of a British Cathedral or historic church.

If you’re in Kansas City for the EPN Annual Conference, please stop by and visit with Darren S. Herring, National Director of Sales for Faith Journeys and Residency Specialist for Music Celebrations International. We hope to see you there!

02/18/2025

You will be changed! This is the promise.

We sixteen pilgrims from the Episcopal Church in Wyoming were transformed on our Social Justice and Racial Reconciliation Pilgrimage to Alabama and collectively have been fired up and ready to “get in the way” and courageously find a way to make a difference in the State of Wyoming.

02/14/2025

If you want to join a pilgrimage to Ireland and Scotland later this year, here's your chance. A group from St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Austin, TX, led by the Rev. Katie Wright, has a few unfilled spots and is opening their pilgrimage to anyone who may want to join them. For more information or to request a copy of the pilgrimage brochure, please get in touch with Faith Journeys at [email protected] or call 877-732-4845.

02/14/2025

Although no longer on the official church calendar as a holy day, Valentine’s Day is certainly near to all of our hearts! Very little is known about the person that is so associated with February 14. The date is believed to be attributed to St. Valentine of Rome, a 3rd century figure associated with “courtly love.”

Church history shows that there may have been two different St. Valentines and at least one of them was martyred and buried just North of Rome. One of these saints healed the blind daughter of a judge and signed his name to a letter to her as “your Valentine”. Another legend is that he performed marriage ceremonies for young couples to save the husbands from having to go off to war. (At that time married men could not be conscripted into military service.)

In either case, St. Valentine has long been associated with loving relationships. And, he really did exist. Archaeologist have unearthed a Roman catacomb and ancient church dedicated to St. Valentine and we know that in 496 AM Pope Gelasius designated February 14 to honor his martyrdom.

Relics of St. Valentine can be found all over the world. From Rome, Dublin, Prague, Vienna to Glasgow, churches claim to have a piece of the saint.

If you’d like to go in search of St. Valentine or any of the other early church leaders and saints, let us know. We can customize an itinerary to help you, and your faith community dig deeper into the history of the church and its people.

Catholic pilgrimages to Italy. Experience the religious and inspirational Catholic culture and history on this life changing tour of Italy - Faith Journeys