Hearts in Search of God, with Phil McCarthy

This conversation explores the multifaceted nature of pilgrimages and their personal significance. Phil McCarthy shares his experiences and insights on how pilgrimage can serve as a means of healing, community building, and personal reflection. The discussion also highlights the Hearts in Search of God project, which aims to revitalize walking pilgrimage in England and Wales, and the importance of addressing loneliness and fostering connections through shared experiences. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the transformative power of pilgrimage in finding meaning and purpose in life.Takeaways:*Pilgrimage can be a deeply personal and transformative experience.*Battlefield pilgrimages connect historical events with personal narratives.*The psychological benefits of pilgrimage include reflection and community building.*Hearts in Search of God aims to revitalize walking pilgrimage in England and Wales.*Social prescribing can encourage people to engage in meaningful activities.*Pilgrimage fosters encounters that can alleviate feelings of loneliness.*Young people are increasingly drawn to pilgrimage as a form of adventure.*Pilgrimage can serve as a platform for exploring personal and family histories.*The integration of health and pilgrimage can enhance overall wellbeing.*Meaning and purpose are central themes in the pilgrimage experience.Phil McCarthy is a retired GP and former CEO of Caritas Social Action Network. Having walked to Rome and Istanbul he now leads a project called ‘Hearts in Search of God’ to promote walking pilgrimage in England & Wales by developing pilgrim ways between each Cathedral and one or more shrines in the same diocese. As part of the Jubilee year he is organising the national walking Pilgrimage of Hope from Cardiff, Leeds, Norwich and London to Nottingham, arriving on 13th September 2025, the eve of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. For more information see www.pilgrimways.org.uk