On a beautiful late summer afternoon (28th August), 9 walkers and 4 cyclists set out from Callander Kirk on the annual pilgrimage to the Trossachs.

At Loch Vennachar, we stopped for a picnic lunch, sang “Be still, for the beauty of the Lord” and listened to a short meditation on life as a pilgrimage. Continuing on along the scenic south shores of the loch, we chatted and enjoyed the surrounding hills, lochs, trees, flowers and wildlife. At our second stop, we made crosses from grass and sticks, sang, prayed and reflected on a bible reading. From here, the walkers took a shorter route, while the cyclists completed a loop around Loch Achray.

Meeting up again at the picturesque Trossachs Kirk, where we were joined by some who had come by car, swelling the congregation to around 30 folk. Rev. Valerie Allen led a short act of worship in the church, and our pilgrimage finished with a lovely picnic tea of home-made scones, cakes and other goodies. Thanks were due to Margaret Warnock for organising the event, and all those who contributed in many ways. Already, we are looking forward to next year’s pilgrimage. If you missed it this year, come along next year – or better still, organise your own mini-pilgrimage or outdoor worship while this summer lasts!