Santiago de Compostela and Home!

We've come to the end of our journey and are safely back at home! We arrived in Santiago de Compostela last Sunday after waking up very early. We had a full day to spend there before heading to Paris for our return flight. We also took the opportunity to spend a day in Paris. Paris was very crowded, but we were able to see quite a few sights. Even in Paris, we followed Caminos shells on the road to the base of Tour Saint-Jacques (St. James tower). The 171 ft. tower is all that is left of the ancient church where medieval pilgrims leaving from Paris would start their pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. The church was destroyed in the French Revolution.

The last week of the pilgrimage was so different than the rest. Many pilgrims join the route in Sarria, from other routes, and also those seeking to complete the 100 kms needed to receive an official certificate. There were a number of Spanish youth groups dressed in bright colored shirts and bandanas and camping along the way. Sometimes it was discouraging to be passed by those who had not completed all the leg-work and were fresh. They also were not tired at night and earplugs became extra useful! In the analogy of pilgrimage, it was a reminder that it is not our work that matters in obtaining the prize, but God's grace. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

Our arrival at the cathedral before noon on Sunday was filled with emotion. We all had tears in our eyes as we embraced. We had made it! Connecting with other pilgrims on the terrace was a joyful experience. We spent the remainder of the day receiving our certificate, checking into our lodging, eating and attending the evening mass. Tuesday we had the opportunity to go into a museum, although the main museum and cathedral tower was sold out. We enjoyed more food and walking the streets. The end of such a journey is complex. It will take time to chew on and digest what we've learned about the world and ourselves. We thank God for bringing us safely to the end of this journey!

Streets of Santiago

Tour St. Jacques - Paris