Normanton on Soar

SMALL PILGRIM PLACES - Like many village churches, St James Church, Normanton on Soar, is open daily from 10am to 4pm. We have joined an organisation called “Small Pilgrim Places” as their ethos is to welcome all visitors – tourists, seekers and pilgrims. As Thomas Merton said: “A place where your mind can be idle, and forget its concerns, descend into silence and worship in secret.” Small Pilgrim Places are: • Spaces for pondering, breathing, meditating, praying and ‘being’. • Small places, not those already on the map, well-known, or that draw crowds. • Simple, quiet and unpretentious, with the presence of the Divine. • Places of worship, gardens, ruins, open spaces, holy wells, etc. • Welcoming and inclusive. The Small Pilgrim Places Network, which we have joined: Brings together people who support the ethos of Small Pilgrim Places through prayer and practical support. Encourages members to promote the key elements of Small Pilgrim Places – quiet prayer and meditation, hospitality, silence, space and simplicity not only in of Small Pilgrim Places but also in their own personal situations. Is mutually supportive, encouraging the exchange of experiences, inspiration and practicalities. That’s why we have joined as it seemed to describe what we try to do at St James. If you are interested in learning more and finding some Small Pilgrim Places, please visit www. smallpilgrimplaces.org and then click on “Places to Visit” and you will find St James! If you are travelling, there are other such places all over the country which you may find of interest.