While a pilgrimage historically was a journey undertaken for religious and spiritual reasons, it has evolved over the years. In today’s world it is often a journey taken by anyone seeking more clarity, healing or to allow for a period of contemplation. Often people are drawn to pilgrimage at a turning point in their life.
In today’s world of constant bombardment from the internet and social media, a pilgrimage is often seen as a way to take a break from the pressures of modern day life and get more connected to ones inner self. It allows us to experience the peacefulness of a simple life with no decisions other than when to begin walking in the morning and where to sleep at night.
Although the word “Camino” has come to be associated with the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage, it is actually a generic word meaning road, path or journey.
In our modern day society one of the most well known pilgrimages is the Camino de Santiago, where for centuries pilgrims have walked to Santiago de Compostela where the bones of St. James are reputed to be interred. There are many routes to Santiago but the most popular one is the Camino Frances which begins either in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, France or in Roncesvalles, Spain. This route which is approximately 780 KM has been walked for centuries with a peak by the end of the 12th century of about 100,000 recorded from Roncesvalles. Over time there was a decline then a revival starting after WWII. Since then it has grown in popularity with an increase from 2,491 pilgrims in 1986 to over 300,000 in 2017.
For a detailed history see 2000 Years of the Camino Pilgrimage by Laurie Dennett, former Chairman of the Confraternity of St. James.
Major Routes to Santiago
If any of the following apply to you a pilgrimage journey may be what your soul is yearning for.
☐ At a crossroads and not knowing which direction to go?
☐ Experiencing burnout?
☐ Sensing that there must be more to life?
☐ Wondering about your legacy?
☐ In supporting others have you lost a sense of who you are?
☐ Is there something calling but you don’t know what it is?
☐ Living a life that feels unfulfilled?
☐ Is there a sense of emptiness in your life?
☐ Have your dreams been put on hold?
Is it finally YOUR time ….
To answer your soul’s deepest call?
Take a deep breath…. and imagine yourself
on this life-transforming Journey….
Imagine the Benefits…
- You’ll have a greater sense of peace and clarity
- You’ll be more deeply connected to the wisdom of your soul
- You”ll have tremendous stories to share and memories to savour
- You’ll be rejuvenated and refreshed
- You’ll have tremendous stories and memories to share
- You’ll have a sense of accomplishment at having completed this incredible journey
- You’ll know that you are able to do so much more than you thought. Be so much more than you might have imagined.
Many People Dream . . .
Few Take Action to Turn their Dreams into Reality