Green Man Pilgrimages

Our initial inspiration came from Spain where we in 2004, five months at a row, helped pilgrims on their way to Compostela with (unique) Chinese pain treatments, everything free of charge. It was a wonderful experience. It was the reason why I flew to Mexico in early 2009 to initiate a comparable Camino. For the moment political developments have prevented it. Now it can be enjoyed as the "virtual" LINK: Camino de Esperanza

When I discovered that the Green Man could not only be found in England and France, but specifically in Germany, as well - together with the knowledge that they are still largely unknown there - my enthusiasm was unstoppable. The "circumstances" - increased uncertainty due to spiritual and global problems - make that this is exactly the "right" time for his entry.

The first step of my work was a survey created in order to find the places where he can be found. A network has to be established through which people are capable of spotting Green Men in a simple way.. Not all objects are mentioned, it is purposely, because then you will have the possibility to find new Green Men yourself. Anyone who finds a new Man is asked to disclose to it us, so that we can give him a place in our website*.

* Of course, together with the name of the photographer ..

The purpose of the network is to anable pilgrims to travel from one place to another. Unlike the Spanish Camino, where today it probably it is going to be a bit too commercial, we have the routes deliberately left open. What you do know is that you walk from Würzburg to Bamberg - because that has been shown in our list* - while designing the exact way you use yourself. No "rat-race", no jostling at the hostels, but totally relaxed living out your own adventure. How great is the joy then to meet other pilgrims, how interesting to exchange with each other!

* Mentioned on top of every photo-page.
LINK: GREEN MAN IN EUROPE/GERMANY 3

To help you support e.g. enrich your pilgrimage, we have developed a number of additional initiatives. Apart from this website, an additional guide to all known sites will be published. It is small and handy so you can take it easily with you on your journey. In addition, the small but beautiful Green Man meditation book with spiritual texts and beautiful color photo's have been added. A similar book for children is being considered. It's just a matter of time, because we regard it as very important.

What we also intend to do is to cooperate with local churches and communities. Both may have interest in announcing to the public the treasures they have in their church or in their streets. It will enrich everyone, spiritually, religiously, culturally, environmentally and even economically.....*. To this end, we will hold exhibitions in many Green Men places - with the emphasis on local finds! - supplemented by lectures and workshops. We are not afraid to incorporate local and national media. Convinced as we are by the great importance of our initiative.

* Our attitude is decidedly inter-religious. That is, we try to promote, through the Green Man (and the Wise Woman) understanding, tolerance, reconciliation and co-operation. Ultimately, he is a part of our culture and wants to be integrated, once again.

Once a year we will organize a "Green Man and Wise Woman" festival. All who are interested e.g. searching the Green Man or Wise Woman in themselves are invited. There is a "serious" part of lectures and workshops and a "non-serious" part of celebrations, meetings, meditation, qigong, chant and dance. Topics are, among other things, "The importance of GM and WW for our culture," "The GM and WW as hopefuls in today's crisis?", "Religious reconciliation through GM and WW?", "The relationship of GM and WW with the Cosmic Mother," "GM and WW: new prospects for our youth? "," GM and WW: A new step in evolution? " etc., etc. Participation is totally non-binding. If you were to decide to engage yourself the possibility of a training will be offered. For that we have established the "Transformatorium".

Wishes you a wonderful pilgrimage
Han Marie Stiekema
"Green Man"