Churches are being encouraged to sign up to become a ‘Pilgrim Place’ offering a quiet contemplative space.

It follows a meeting of 22 church leaders from the Major Churches Network about the Faith in the North initiative and its focus this year on pilgrimage.

In recent years there has been a renewed interest in pilgrimage, with more people taking time out to think about their journey, seeking special places that offer space to pause, pray and explore deeper questions of meaning, hope and faith.

The gathering who met at Bishopthorpe Palace, the home of the Archbishop of York also discussed the mission opportunities presented by choral ministry among children, young people, and families. Initiatives such as Sing My Soul and Choir Church were highlighted.

Hilary Barber, national chair of the Major Churches Network said: “It’s been great to gather people from across the network today. We’ve heard about the opportunity for churches of all sizes to become Pilgrim Places as a way of reaching out in mission. Churches in whatever their context, rural or urban are always seeking to develop and grow, and the resources from Faith in the North are a great way of helping this. Today has also given church leaders time to discuss the opportunities and challenges they face, encouraging and supporting each other as they serve the Church of God.”

Addressing the gathering, the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell said: “I don’t want major churches to thrive because they are more important — I want them to thrive so that the whole ecosystem of the Church can flourish. Renewal so often comes from the edge, from quiet faithfulness and unseen prayer, but when every part of the body is valued and supported, we are stronger together in God’s mission to change the world.”

To access free resources and to sign up to become a Pilgrim Place visit www.faithinthenorth.org