On Saturday, 18th July 2025, Holy Family parishioners travelled to Grindleford, for their parish Jubilee pilgrimage to the Padley Martyrs’ Shrine. Most participants began their journey with a 14 minute train ride from Sheffield Station to Grindleford station, High Peak District in Derbyshire where Padley Chapel is situated within walking distance of the train station. Visitors of all ages were welcomed by the ‘Friends of Padley’, who look after and maintain this site as a part of our Catholic cultural heritage. After arrival, attendees listened to talks about the history of Padley, it’s Martyrs, the Blesseds Nicholas Garlick and Robert Ludlum, and the challenges faced by other local Catholic families regarding their faith during their time. The visit coincided with the same month that the Martyrs were arrested, imprisoned and finally executed on the 24th of July 1588 on Saint Mary’s Bridge Derby.
A central component of the pilgrimage was the celebration of mass by Father Henry Woodhouse inside the chapel, with liturgy and hymns delivered in various languages reflecting the diverse national backgrounds within the Holy Family Catholic Parish in Sheffield. Some Catholic friends from Manchester who happened to be visiting the area, were also lucky to be present for the mass. Following mass, attendees enjoyed refreshments and a light lunch in the courtyard of Padley in true Holy Family style.
Although many pilgrims expressed desire for more time at the site, they departed promptly to catch the 16:15hrs train back to Sheffield. Plans are underway for a future pilgrimage, allowing for an extended visit and a trek to St Mary’s Bridge. Tendayi Hanyani Holy Family Church Parishioner
