On Sunday 1st of August our Sunday Evening Prayers on Zoom were dedicated to our Patron Saint, St Olaf.
Edward Watson had prepared the following information.
Edward also found that there is a monastery dedicated to St Olaf in Norway. More on that and lots of picture at:
Last week Bishop Anne Dyer led a pilgrimage along the St Magnus Way
A core group of seven pilgrims were joined by others on some days. The morning started with devotions at the starting point of the walk for that day. As well as lots of conversation while walking there was also plenty of time to contemplate the theme of that section, be it Peace, Loss or Forgiveness etc. Bishop Anne was also asked to bless the loo at Fursbreck Pottery as it has been refurbished and themed on the St Magnus Way and is available to those walking the route. On the last day the weary pilgrims were greeted by a crowd gathered at the Old St Olaf’s Church door and we all walked together to St Magnus Cathedral for a closing act of worship and very welcome refreshments.
[Photographs taken at the end of the pilgrimage can be seen here. Many thanks to Bryan Leslie for allowing these to be shared.]
St Olaf’s members Pirjo and Stuart Little are trustees of the St Magnus Way and Stuart is currently its Chairperson.
The St Magnus Way is a 58 mile long pilgrimage walk opened in 2017 as part of the celebrations of the 900 years since the martyrdom of St Magnus, Orkney’s patron saint. The walk starts on the island of Egilsay but is mostly on Orkney Mainland. It is based on what is known of Magnus’ life, death and the subsequent building of a cathedral in his name following on from his canonisation in 1136. The shrine to St Magnus was a pilgrimage destination drawing pilgrims to Orkney for many years. The website and app give clear instructions on the way-marked route which is varied in its scenery and walking conditions. Some of the route is on paths and road but most is over open country and some sections need sturdy footwear. The website and app are full of photos and information on the story of St Magnus and the places along the way. For those wanting a reflective experience there are audio and written materials based on themes inspired by the life of Magnus such as peace, forgiveness and growth with questions to ponder as you walk.
