Day 9 (June 21, 2022)

We spent our final day exploring the beauty of the Holy Island.  Walking the perimeter we experienced the North Sea shore, wild grasses, sand dunes, priory ruins, a small harbor, and much more – all under a beautiful blue sky.  We took some time to visit the Lindisfarne Heritage Center which was a small museum providing history from the early days of the island, including an early Viking raid and the Lindisfarne Gospels. 

A highlight of the day for us was after the tide receded, we walked out to the small St. Cuthbert’s Island, which the night before had been surrounded by water.  Sitting on the rocks and listening to the seals sing — while watching them play in the water — was mesmerizing.   

We enjoyed our final group dinner at a local restaurant and then met for a Godspeed service conducted by Pastor Pat who reminded us that Moses never reached his destination, but God was always with him. We made it to the Holy Island, but our walk with God will continue to be our life’s pilgrimage.   Isaiah: 43, “As you pass through the waters, I will protect you” has taken on quite a significance during this pilgrimage.  At the end of the service, we tried Cutty’s Cheese and celebrated with a champagne toast.  Afterwards we went outside, placed the stone from the service in Wooler, and then split into small groups to explore a little more and watch the sunset over the North Sea.