This Lent, thousands of people across England and Wales are lacing up their walking boots for CAFOD's Big Lent Walk – a challenge to walk 200km in 40 days to bring life-saving water to communities around the world. Here, we meet four more inspiring walkers: a couple exploring the best of Kent, a mother and son duo making every school run count, a vicar swapping sacrifice for stepping out, and a woman of faith walking the Yorkshire coast.
Ian and Steph: exploring Kent for a great cause
Ian and Steph walking along the coast
For Ian and Steph, a married couple based in Headcorn, Kent, the Big Lent Walk slots perfectly into something they already love doing together.
"We enjoy walking and this is a great way to add to our monthly support of CAFOD for a great cause," they say.
And their route list is an enviable one. "We will be walking in the lanes around our house in Headcorn, but also at places like Leeds Castle, Sissinghurst Castle, as well as walks around Kent such as the North Downs Way and the Greensand Way." From the rolling meadows around their home to the grandeur of Kent's famous castles and ancient trails, Ian and Steph are turning their love of the outdoors and walking into an act of solidarity for their sisters and brothers around the world.
Zoe and Henry: a mother and son mission
Zoe and Henry on the beach
For Zoe and her son Henry, the Big Lent Walk is a chance to put values into action — together.
"Henry and I are taking on The Big Lent Walk as it's such a great way for him to learn the importance of giving back to those in need," says Zoe. "We will be walking locally during the weeks as there are some lovely countryside trails nearby. On school days we will be walking where we can rather than using the car, which will help reach our goal!"
Between the local trails at the weekend and the school gate during the week, Zoe and Henry are squeezing steps in wherever they can — and we reckon Henry might just end up outwalking mum before Lent is over.
Reverend Shirley: taking on more, not less
Reverend Shirley on her daily walk
As a vicar, Reverend Shirley knows a thing or two about the Lenten tradition of giving things up. But this year, she's doing something a little different.
"Why am I taking on the Big Lent Walk? Well, rather than giving up something, I'm taking on more — in this case, walking to raise money for a wonderful cause," she explains.
Reverend Shirley is the vicar of St Anne's Church in Tottington, Bury (Greater Manchester), and her routes for the challenge are already mapped out. "I shall be walking on the Tottington Lines — the site of an old railway track — and in the nearby Kirklees Valley Nature Trail. I may occasionally have a canine companion (I look after friends' dogs while they are away) and will meet plenty of other walkers."
With or without her four-legged friend, Reverend Shirley is sure to make every kilometre count.
Holly: faith in every footstep
Holly walking in nature
For Holly, the Big Lent Walk is about more than just miles — it's an act of almsgiving woven into the fabric of daily life.
"The Big Lent Walk is an opportunity for me to give back to others and show faith through action," she says. "Some walks will be alone, in nature or on my regular outings from day to day. I know I will need some help from my family and friends — we will be planning some walks along the East Yorkshire coast!"
Holly's approach beautifully captures the spirit of Lent. It's a season not just of giving up, but of giving back. The Big Lent Walk helps Holly act intentionally this Lent. Whether she's out on a solitary stroll or joined by loved ones along the dramatic East Yorkshire coastline, every step she takes is a step taken for our neighbours.
Join the Big Lent Walk
Sign up for CAFOD’s Big Lent Walk and challenge yourself to walk 200km in 40 days. You can sign up as an individual, parish or school!