GUIDED PILGRIMAGE - Key Persons

Guided Pilgrimage wa s the initiative of Christine Smith, and she was then joined by Iain Tweedale to double capacity and take GP in exciting new directions. They are the main pilgrimage guides. Chris is a qualified Lowland Leader with Mountain Training, an industry leader. A qualified outdoor First Aider and carrying all the recommended insurance cover, she provides a safe outdoor experience. She brings a wealth of other experience as a Spiritual Companion, qualified alternative health practitioner, extensive travel experience from working in the travel industry and finally a breadth of knowledge from leading groups on long distance routes in many areas of the world as well as at home for work and for personal exploration. She also has a very broad perspective on matters of a spiritual nature and how we can live our best lives.

Iain lives in the far west of Wales overlooking the Irish Sea. His family origins are in Ireland and Scotland which is reflected in his love of wild Celtic landscapes, poetry and music. He has a close association with the Cistercian Abbey on the monastic island of Caldey and is the co-founder of the lay Cistercians of Caldey there. He writes about pilgrimage, contemplative spirituality and Celtic Blessings. He also narrates regular online Taizé events from Waterford, Ireland with his friends from the Island of Ireland Peace Choir. He particularly loves to share his knowledge of the old pilgrimage routes in Wales with guests from all over the world.