In 2012, the number of pilgrims who came to Compostela broke a record. Pilgrims of all ages travelled from all over the world to embrace the Apostle and pray in the Cathedral of Santiago.
Although we think that there is no place for religion in today’s society, it is surprising that every day thousands of pilgrims go into churches along the Way in order to pray, go to confession, sing or just greet the Lord God. And they get even happier when, before arriving to Santiago, they see statues of the Apostle in these churches, like the one in Boente (A Coruña), located in the heart of the Way.
People walk the Way because of several reasons: religion, promises, culture, tourism, wishes of setting themselves free, among others. But, they all lead to the same aim, which is visiting the Cathedral and embracing the statue of the Saint. Some pilgrims end up the Way having totally different ideas from the beginning, and this is because the Way is a school for life: while walking you will learn values of friendship and sacrifice, it will teach you how to share with others or how little you need to carry on with your life. You will also learn to listen to others and to yourself too. You will feel an inner power that will push you to go ahead with your life.
It is gratifying to see parents and children walking the Way together, like a family, particularly during holidays. They go into a church and pray the Angelus at noon or the Lord’s prayer, or they simply talk about things related to the Way (Who was St. James?, Why did he end up in Spain?, Why did he carry a pumpkin, and a scallop-shell? Why is St. James’ cross a sword?, or Why is it then called a cross?).
We may think that the Way is too hard for children, but you would get surprised to see them walking, because once they take a little break they are automatically ready to start walking again. However, there are very implicated parents who make up impressive things so that their children will be able to come with them on the Way. They design baby stroller bikes, carry their children on their shoulders, or simply push the baby stroller.
On the Way you will meet people from all over the world who speak different languages. However, during the pilgrimage everybody manages to communicate. It looks like there is a common language on the Way. Everyone is friend with everyone, they all communicate, exchange telephone numbers, addresses and emails with others. The Way of St. James is a God’s grace. It is a Way of coming together and brotherhood. God relies on the Way to bring people closer to him, through the Apostle St. James.
Andrés Guerreiro Sánchez
Parish priest of Boente (A Coruña, Galicia)