We made it: Arzua - Pedrouza - Santiago!

First, a disclaimer. We made it to Santiago on time and without any problems. It has just taken me almost 2 weeks to finally write this post. Getting into Santiago and the return home has been a whirlwind and I finally have some time to breathe.

One thing I noticed during the last few days of walking, was that I just didn’t take a whole lot of pictures. I think it was for a few reasons. I was getting tired (we were probably due for a rest day) and I was just trying to soak in the last few moments of walking - there is just something so freeing about only having to worry about getting to your destination, staying hydrated and nourished, and soaking in all the beauty that surrounds you, both in the natural environment and the people that you meet. 

Breakfast of champions!

Speaking of people that you meet, I was able to concelebrate mass in a few of the towns where we stayed. It just so happened that there were three other priests, who all seemed to be walking on the same itinerary the last few days, and so we got to know each other. One was from Chile, one from South Korea and one from Valencia, Spain, who was there with a group of seminarians that he works with. 

Fr. Andy from South Korea

Also, speaking of more people, I want to give a shout out to the UD students who were on this pilgrimage. They. Were. Incredible. In terms of their level of engagement and depth of reflection, they exceeded any expectations that I had.  They really threw themselves into the experience, went with the flow when needed, and just seemed to have a wonderful time.  And hats off to my colleague, Nick.  He was a great partner to have on the journey.

And now, for the moment you’ve all been waiting for… Santiago! Click on the video below to see our entrance into the cathedral plaza.

In Santiago, we took it all in, celebrated our accomplishments and had time to reflect on the experience. 

With our seminarian friends

That's my "Camino #2" pose

At a pilgrim's mass in the cathedral, one of the UD students even got to proclaim the first reading...in Spanish!

We also went on a tour of the cathedral rooftop. It was a group favorite.

After a few days in Santiago, we returned to Madrid to catch our flight home. We were able to explore Madrid for a few hours, including the cathedral and the seeing the royal palace.  I don't think the king was in.

Of course while visiting in Madrid, we had our packs with us still, and a gentleman approached me to tell me something very important. Honestly, I figured I had done something wrong.  Rather, he wanted to point out that the cathedral had a statue of Saint James. He simply pointed up and said, “Santiago! Santiago!”  It was as if everything had come full circle.  

Until next time…Buen Camino!

Pilgrims Everywhere: Sarria - Portomarín - Palas de Rei

We are now in the heart of Galicia, a region of Spain. It is very rural and agricultural, as well as lush and abundant with water. It also has a bit of a unique smell - I think that’s because of all the cows and sheep, pigs, and chickens that are here. 

From Samos, we made our way to the city of Sarria.

In order to receive a compostela (official pilgrim certificate) at the Cathedral in Santiago, you must walk at least 100km (or bike 200km.)  Sarria is just over 100 km from Santiago. Therefore, the number of pilgrims really increases from this point onward. In fact, I’m quite surprised by how many pilgrims there are on the Camino now.  I think this is for two reasons. First, when I walked two years ago, we did not stay in the major cities and so we were a little “off course” from the majority of pilgrims, so we just didn’t see them. Second, there is a lot of chatter on the Camino that the number of pilgrims is just really high this year. In fact, one of the monks in Rabanal mentioned they have already seen a 20% increase in pilgrims this year, and the busy season hasn’t even begun. We are also hearing reports that pilgrims are finding it difficult to get accommodations. Thankfully, all of ours have been booked ahead. 

Just after Sarria we passed the 100km point. 

Then we arrived in Portomarín.  The city is on a reservoir. In fact, when the reservoir was created, they had to move the city to higher ground, even moving the cathedral brick by brick.

To enter the city, you have to climb a long staircase.  I’m told that the proper way to do it is without stopping. Otherwise, you will have bad luck.  I didn’t take my chances and kept going.

On the way there, we were followed by a heard of sheep!  Just watch these videos!

I’m writing this now in the town of Palas de Rei.  I’m finding that I’m not taking so many pictures anymore. Not because of the scenery, but just wanting to take it all in and we’re all getting a little tired.

Tomorrow, we have an 18 mile day. It’s going to be a long one, but I’m sure it will be a great day as well.  Say a prayer for us. Until then, Buen Camino!