Liz, Roger
and I have just returned from our journey along the Pilgrim route to Santiago
De Compestela in the north-west of Spain. In the 9th century the
remains of St. James the Apostle were ‘discovered’ in this farthest fringe of
the continent and soon became an important place for Christian pilgrimage. The
route which pilgrims from all over Europe took became known as the Camino de
Santiago or the Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago. Today, after Jerusalem and Rome it
is the third most visited pilgrimage site.
We travelled
part of this route taking in Burgos, Leon and some smaller towns before
reaching Santiago and were privileged to be able to have a Communion service
for our group in side chapels in Burgos, Leon and Santiago Cathedrals. The
pilgrims we met, whether walking or travelling by coach like us, had come from
all over the world and we even met a lady who was walking who had been born in
Walsall. The number and nationalities of pilgrims reminded us all that wherever
people come from we all share the same faith and desire to make this special
journey.
A highlight was
the Pilgrims Mass which takes place in Santiago Cathedral and although it was
in Spanish with only a few English sections we were able to participate. There
was something rather special about exchanging the Peace and receiving Communion
with other pilgrims of all nationalities.
Although we
took a physical journey we are all on a journey, which may be bumpy at times
and the way not always clear, in which we endeavour to reflect and share
Christ’s love for us with one another.
I would like
to conclude with a verse from a hymn which we sang at our own service in
Santiago Cathedral:
We are pilgrims on a
journey
And companions on the
road;
We are here to help each
other
Walk the mile and bear
the load.
God bless
Lilian
