Frequently asked questions

People have been so kind as to be interested in what I'm up to and to ask questions. Now that I'm about to set off, I thought I'd compile a short list of the most popular. So with apologies if I've answered these elsewhere already, here's my FAQ:

1. What on earth are you doing?
I'm taking a three-month sabbatical from ministry between Easter and the end of the summer school term. The main focus during this time is Walking Home, a kind of pilgrimage in reverse, between Paris where we honeymooned and home in Oadby, Leicestershire. On the way, I'm meeting up with friends and family and visiting some old haunts.

2. How far is it?
It's just over 500 miles of walking altogether.

3. When do you actually go?
I set off from Paris on 23 April 2009. St George's Day in the French capital. Seems like a good day to begin a retreat.

4. How long will it take?
I plan to be home again on 12 June 2009, God willing. But I don't get back to work until 11 July.

5. Are you camping each night?
No way! The thought of arriving in a damp field at twilight with a tent to pitch and a meal to cook is not my idea of renewal and recreation. I'm stopping in bed and breakfast accomodation, in cheap hotels and with friends.

6. How many miles a day are you walking?
I've planned for an average of 12 miles on each of the walking days. The longest days are about 18 miles.

7. What about the wet bit in the middle?
Some have suggested I should walk on water, or swim the Channel. But no, I'm taking the ferry from Le Havre to Portsmouth.

8. Are you fit enough?
Let's say I've got issues. I've lost a few pounds in training and certainly gained stamina. But walking once a week is not the best way to prepare. I expect to feel rough in the first couple of weeks and to either expire or improve after that.

9. Are you raising money for charity? Can we sponsor you?
I'm hoping to write a book, probably a compilation of the blog with more material thrown in when I've had a chance to reflect and regain my senses. The proceeds will go to Christian Aid. If you'd like to register interest in the book, click here.

10. Will you keep blogging?
That's the plan. It will depend on mobile phone signals and wifi connections but I'm hoping to publish some of my writing online as I go.

11. You're a vicar. Shouldn't you be doing something religious?
The whole Walking Home idea is full of theological possibility. There's the dimension of pilgrimage, the metaphor of homecoming as a way of thinking about a life-journey which begins and ends with God, the challenge to my work-addiction and the improvement of my physical health. In addition, I'm going to be thinking about fruitfulness versus productivity in the spirituality of evangelicalism. Beyond all that, I'm going to meet some fascinating people and see some curious things. That's plenty!

12. What does Jennifer think about this?
She's been fabulously encouraging all along. I'll miss her lots. And Jon and Phil too.