New pilgrim walk will visit Saul and Down Cathedral
A new camino style pilgrim walk will take in both Saul Church and Down Cathedral. St Patrick's Way, is being launched in Downpatrick on 1 July.
New pilgrim guides Martina Purdy and Elaine Kelly will in turn lead pilgrims on the journey which includes Inch Abbey, Saul Church, the site of Patrick's first church in Ireland, Slieve Patrick and the national monument, Struell Wells, and St Patrick's grave at Down Cathedral.
Dean of Down, the Very Revd Henry Hull said:
"I hope this will introduce many new people to the Downpatrick area and the depth of spirituality found in the life of our patron saint. I know Martina and Elaine will be engaging guides which should make this a very uplifting experience for those who join the pilgrimage."
A second 8 mile route with guides and pilgrims in Newcastle on Saturdays is being launched on 4 July.
There will also be an Irish language bilingual walk on Sundays starting on 12 July in Downpatrick with Jean O'Neill.
Further details and bookings for all or part of the walk, are available at the St Patrick Centre, Downpatrick, on (028) 4461 9000.