ST JAMES THE APOSTLE
Last week (Thursday 25th of July) saw the Feast of St. James. For the people of Spain he is their patron saint and it is a wonderful celebration. I have a great devotion to Santiago (St James) from my time as a deacon in James’ Street parish, and have had the privilege of doing the camino (pilgrimage) to his shrine in Santiago de Compestella – The first time I cycled it from Lourdes over the Pyrenees, the next time was as part of a parish Pilgrimmage where we walked the 120kms from Saria, and I visited it on the motor bike a few times when I lived in Spain. Here is a lovely reflection on life/pilgrimage/camino because we are all pilgrims on the journey of life.
1. Blessed are you pilgrim, if you discover that the “camino” opens your eyes to what is not seen.
2. Blessed are you pilgrim, if what concerns you most is not to arrive, as to arrive with others.
3. Blessed are you pilgrim, because you have discovered that the true “camino” begins when it is completed. A new journey starts as we complete the first one.
4. Blessed are you pilgrim, if your knapsack is emptying of things and your heart does not know where to hang up so many feelings and emotions.
5. Blessed are you pilgrim, if you discover that one step back to help another is more valuable than a hundred forward without awareness of those at your side.
6.Blessed are you pilgrim, if you discover that the “camino” holds a lot of silence; and the silence of prayer; and the prayer of meeting with God who is waiting for you.