August Awakening

Recently the town of Campostella in Spain was in the news because of the tragic crash of a high speed train. Most of the passengers were pilgrims headed for the church of Santiago de Campostella. Tradition has it that the remains of the Apostle St. James are kept there. For centuries people from all walks of life have made the 800 kilometer trek from France to Santiago, then some continue on to the ocean where the trail ends.

Just yesterday a young man came into our Center in search of books to bring along with him on the "Camino de Santiago."  Determined to make at least 100 kilometers of the Camino, the youthful pilgrim plans to bring 5 changes of clothes, along with other necessities. He admitted that the things dearest to him right now which he will have to give up on the journey is a hot shower. "I am sort of a neat freak. I like to be really clean." along the way in the small villages where he may stay, a shower will be a definite luxury. 

If you would like to visualize the Camino I recommend viewing the film "The Way" starring Martin Sheen. His son Emilio Estevez who plays the part of Sheen's son directed the film as well. The movie reveals some of the hardships pilgrims face from themselves together with the surprises and trials of a journey on foot through villages, mountains and crowded cities. Trekking for days on end comprises a true penance, and helps to put people in a receptive mood to see what else God has in store for us.

Another film which is more of a documentary is also available from our Pauline Books and Media Centers.

The films may be ordered from www.pauline.org. Or, you can contact the nearest Pauline Book & Media Center.

In this life we are all on a "Camino" towards heaven. Like the Camino pilgrims we are heading for a rendezvous with the Lord. Before we reach the goal there will be some bumps in the road, and probably some huge craters to challenge us. Like the pilgrims who lean on their staffs for support, we can lean on the grace of God to be there with the strength we need 

At Santiago de Campostella pilgrims who finish the journey there receive a diploma of completion.of The Caminos.

God bless you. If you can get to a beach near you before school re-opens pick up a scallop shell to remind yourself  of the lessons of "The Camino/The Way."