Gatekeeper Trust
The Gatekeeper Trust is a UK-registered charity (No. 326416) focused on promoting personal and planetary healing through pilgrimage and landscape-based spiritual practices. Founded in 1983 by Sir George Trevelyan, Stanley Messenger, and Peter Dawkins, the organization emphasizes reconnecting with the Earth through mindful walking, historical exploration, and ecological awareness[1][2].

Activities

The Trust organizes pilgrimages, conferences, and seasonal events aligned with equinoxes, solstices, and traditional festivals. These activities blend history, mythology, archaeology, and arts to foster a deeper relationship between participants and the natural world. Pilgrimages are framed as acts of mutual exchange, where "footprints of light" metaphorically represent energy shared between humans and the Earth, aiming to elevate collective consciousness[1][2].

Philosophy

Central to its mission is the belief that pilgrimage serves as a conduit for love and light, enabling a reciprocal healing process between humanity and nature. Peter Dawkins, co-founder, described this as a "love relationship" where pilgrims and the Earth mutually aid each other’s "illumination." The Trust views energy exchange as foundational, asserting that loving intent transforms physical and spiritual landscapes[1].

Structure and Outreach

Operating nationwide, the Trust encourages local and national participation in its events, often collaborating with groups to celebrate "The Wheel of the Year." Its approach integrates mindfulness, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, aiming to counter ecological degradation through spiritual reconnection[2][3].

While distinct from Gatekeeper for Good—a separate corporate initiative supporting non-profits like SOS Children’s Villages—the Gatekeeper Trust remains dedicated to its original vision of harmonizing human and planetary wellbeing[5].

Note: This article synthesizes details from the Trust’s public resources and charitable records. For operational specifics, consult official channels.

[1] https://gatekeeper.org.uk [2] https://gatekeeper.org.uk/about-us/history/ [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/326416 [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/326416/contact-information [5] https://www.gatekeeperhq.com/gatekeeper-for-good