A new book penned by a Cumbrian interfaith minister celebrates the launch of a pilgrimage route in honour of Cumbria’s ‘patron saint’.

The Kentigern Way, A life and Lakeland pilgrimage is written by the Rev Prof Stephen Wright and takes readers along a new pilgrimage route which connects churches named in honour of the 6^th Century saint, St Kentigern. It also provides readers with an historical backdrop to both the saint and the region, while exploring what pilgrimage is. Prayers and reflections are provided throughout each stage.

Stephen, who is also a trustee and spiritual director of the Sacred Space Foundation, explained: “I moved to Cumbria in 1996 and it became something of an obsession to learn more about this man, Kentigern. His story grabbed hold of me, and I became very aware of his influence for us here in Cumbria. He’s as close to being our patron saint as anybody.

“So, this book is the culmination of more than 20 years of research and reading around his life. He’s a man who left no writings behind so there’s a wonderful air of mystery around him too. I’d become aware of a circle of churches in the northern fells which are associated with Kentigern. The natural progression was to develop a pilgrimage based on these churches.”

The new book also complements Stephen’s work as the founder of the Kentigern School which supports those people who are interested in exploring the contemplative way and their relationship with God. Two schools have already taken place since its launch in 2018. The 90-mile pilgrimage is split into nine stages, linking churches connected with St Kentigern in places such as Mungrisdale, Caldbeck, Aspatria and Crosthwaite, near Keswick.

Stephen added: “It’s a route which takes in the beautiful northern fells, the city of Carlisle and the Cumbria coast so it covers all kinds of terrain. It’s been wonderful to be able to create this pilgrimage, one which although based around Christian sacred sites is open to people of all faiths and none to walk and explore the countryside and their own spirituality.”

The book also includes a foreword by the Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev James Newcome, who writes: “I challenge anyone not to be inspired and intrigued by the thoughtfulness and love that have gone into researching and producing this unusual and compelling work.”

The Kentigern Way, A life and Lakeland pilgrimage is published by Wild Goose Publications and is available at a special offer price of £8.99 from www.ionabooks.com.

ENDS

For further information please contact the Rev Prof Stephen Wright, on 01768 779000 or at stephen@sacredspace.org.uk.