In a world of screens, schedules, and speed, we often forget the quiet, sacred gift of simply walking. Both science and faith remind us, that walking, especially in nature, is one of the most powerful ways to restore not just our bodies and minds, but our souls. While pilgrimage can take many forms, it is ultimately a sacred journey, one that can unfold in the natural world and lead to a deeper connection with oneself, with others, and with our Creator.

Today, as more people search for meaning, calm, and purpose in their lives, pilgrimage offers a timely path blending physical renewal, psychological well-being, and profound spiritual encounter.

Research strongly supports what ancient wisdom has long known: time spent in nature changes us. Studies show that walking in natural environments lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), reduces anxiety and blood pressure, boosts mood, self-esteem, life satisfaction, enhances cognitive clarity, and even strengthens the immune system. It also increases our sense of meaning and emotional connectedness.

The Biophilia Hypothesis (Wilson, 1984) bios meaning life, and philia meaning love of, translating roughly to love of life or love of living systems, explains this instinctive attraction. We are biologically wired to seek connection with the natural world because for most of history, nature was not a retreat but home. People across cultures prefer natural over built environments, and even brief walks in green and blue spaces restore our attention and lift the spirit. The world outside is not only beautiful, but also medicinal.

In our faith tradition, walking has always had sacred meaning. From Abraham’s journey to the disciples on the road to Emmaus, sacred stories unfold on foot. Jesus Himself was a pilgrim, walking desert paths, seaside roads, and city streets each step leading others closer to the Father. A pilgrimage is more than a hike. It is a holy journey, made with intention, prayer, and openness to God’s presence. Pilgrims walk not just to arrive at a destination, but to be changed along the way.

While science explains how nature helps us, calming the nervous system, reducing stress, restoring focus, faith reveals why: nature is not random beauty; it is the intentional artistry of the Creator. As St. Paul writes, “Ever since the creation of the world His eternal power and divine nature… have been understood through the things He has made” (Romans 1:20). Natural landscapes invite not just peace, but praise. Mountains point to majesty, rivers to mercy, and every sunrise whispers of hope. Pilgrimage becomes a journey not just through nature, but through grace.

For almost ten years, in excess of 100 people from across the Diocese and beyond have journeyed the bush, beach and backyards of our beautiful landscape on the aMeN caMiNo.

This Jubilee Year we are each invited to be Pilgrims of Hope. Is this your year to ‘step up’ and experience the journey?

For the first time in addition to our five-day pilgrimage, we are now offering the chance to tap in, and out over various days of the official 100km walk between August 6-10.

• Friday 8 August join us as we walk into Cooranbong to celebrate the Feast Day of Saint Mary MacKillop (3km). A place she herself visited!
• Saturday 9 August join us around the lake from Toronto to Warners Bay (12km).
• Sunday 10 August from Redhead to Newcastle (20km).

Or, join us for the first weekend in September as we welcome in Spring at Tea Gardens over 5-12km.

So, lace up your shoes, open your heart, and step into grace. The path is waiting. God is walking with you.

To express an interest in any one of these opportunities go to: https://mn.catholic.org.au/cdmn-news/events/

Or find out more, contact us at: [email protected]