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Pilgrimages and Retreats
News13
Connecting faith with life in the land of saints
PILGRIMAGES are an experience common to all religions and cultures.
In it, what is proper to human nature nds expression.
“The world does not constrain the human person, but rather like a waymark, opens it to transcendence, to God,” Paul Skippen, of GPBS (Gather, Proclaim, Break, Send), said.
“Humankind has always known that the world is not its nal destination, that here we are always travellers.”
In Genesis 12:1, the Lord said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people, and the home of your parents, and go to a place which I will show you.”
Mr Skippen (pictured) has
had many years in ministry in
Catholic parishes and schools, co- ordinates the GPBS Ministry and Mission team and is a gifted pre- senter of staff inservice days, parish renewal events and retreats for all ages.
Mr Skippen is an avid traveller and has expe- rienced many of the world’s Catholic spiritual heartlands.
His rst walk of the Camino pilgrimage was with his father.
“It wasn’t a trip – it was a deep spiritual expe- rience, so much so, we did it again,” Paul said. Since then he has led groups on the Camino Pilgrimage and facilitates the yearly tour to the
Los Angeles Religious Education Congress in California each March.
Humankind has
always known that the world is not
its nal destination, that here we are always travellers.
The 2018 “Land of Saints and Scholars” walking and exploring
tour will take in many of Ireland’s hidden treasures and best-kept secrets.
The tour will be lled with gen- tle strolls through towns, villages
and cities while capturing the beauty and essence of this ancient land.
“Each day will be a unique and pleasant experience as we explore something new that connects faith with life in the land of saints and scholars,” Mr Skippen said.
Teacher at St Pius X Primary School, Dubbo, NSW, Kristy Isbester said: “We were blessed with the tour organisers who took care of all the organisation, including outstanding accommo- dation, meals, transfers and tours. Paul was an excellent guide along the way.”
Contact Mr Skippen on 0412 850 883, email info@gpbs.com.au or visit www.gpbs.com.au
Experience Ireland: “The 2018 ‘Land
of Saints and Scholars’ walking and exploring
tour will take in many of Ireland’s hid- den treasures and best-kept secrets.”
Saturday 22 September – Saturday 13 October 2018
Also visiting
EDINBURGH
and
PARIS
The best way to see and appreciate Ireland’s history, culture, nature and stunning
views is on foot. A wealth of quiet tracks, charming people, beautiful scenery and
famous sites will make the tour a leading destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The trip will give you the
opportunity to experience ‘real’ people and ‘feel’ the atmosphere that makes Ireland so unique and such a great walkers paradise. Excellent accommodation, meals and transport.
Discover the vibrant history of Celtic spirituality from St Patrick (5th and 6th centuries) - revered as the patron saint of Ireland - to the present day.
We will also explore delightful Paris en route and take in the wonder of Edinburgh before we journey home.
Reserve your place TODAY for this bucket-list adventure in 2018.
Tour Leader: Email: Mobile: Web:
Paul Skippen info@gpbs.com.au 0412 850 883 www.gpbs.com.au
www.catholicleader.com.au
The Catholic Leader, August 27, 2017