“Footprints Through Time: Pilgrimage, Secular and Sacred'” - Karen Ralls

Historically, reasons for going on medieval pilgrimage varied greatly . Pilgrims of all eras often encountered many unexpected trials before reaching their final destination. Pilgrimage today -
secular or sacred - reminds us that there are times when a visceral 'Knowing' connects us far more deeply to not only specific places in the landscape, but also to the sanctuary of the Heart. Modern-day pilgrims are significantly re-defining what pilgrimage is - and can be - a re-birthing in our time of the famous phrase from the medieval English poem by Piers Plowman - “for pilgrims are we all.”
Karen Ralls, PhD is a medieval historian and specialist in the High Middle Ages period and Celtic history. Based in Oxford, England, Karen enjoys local walks, stargazing and music and is also the author of seven books, including the recent Medieval Mysteries.