St Frances of Rome RC Church in Ross organised a Share the Journey walk on Sunday, June 24th to coincide with the end of this year’s Refugee Week.

Share the Journey is a global campaign calling on governments to put the human dignity of migrants and refugees at the heart of new global agreements being drawn up by the UN in September and December this year.

It’s asking world leaders to make a united, global response in these new agreements which: respect human dignity, protect the vulnerable, support host countries, keep families together and tackle the reasons for migration.

Parish Priest, Father Nicholas James, gave his blessing to the whole congregation before the walkers set off after Mass.

The route chosen was the easily accessible Ross Buggy route which, after leaving Sussex Avenue, took in the welcome shade of the former railway line, now the Town & Country Trail, as well as a beautiful walk along the tranquil River Wye.

The group all made it to the Hope & Anchor where they rested a while and enjoyed very welcome refreshment.

Along the route they stopped at various points for reflection and prayer.

In total, 40 miles were accumulated to be added to the Share the Journey online totaliser.

Therese Warwick, CAFOD’s Community Participation Co-ordinator said: “The walk was a marvellous opportunity for us all to enjoy a few hours of encounter with each other too, as well as reflecting on the plight of our brothers and sisters who have been forced to leave their homes.”

Parishes and schools across England and Wales are organising walks and card signings to add their voices to the campaign. If you would like to get involved, please get in touch with [email protected]

You can add your name to an online petition which will be passed to the Prime Minister. Visit https://e-activist.com/page/12965/petition/10