Nineteen youth confirmed in 2024, accompanied by three teachers and two Augustinian Recollect religious, have done the last hundred kilometers of the French Camino de Santiago and have won the Compostelana spiritual recognition.
For the second consecutive year, first- and second-year high school students (16 to 18 years old) belonging to the St. Augustine School of the Augustinian Recollect Friars in Valladolid (Spain), who received the sacrament of Confirmation this year have completed the last part of the French Camino de Santiago from July 4 to 8, after their final exams.
The group of pilgrims was made up of 24 people, including three teachers and two Recollect religious from the community of Valladolid. They have walked the last hundred kilometers from Portomarín (Lugo) to Santiago de Compostela (La Coruña).
It has been a pleasant and rewarding experience. The pilgrims have endured the journey very well, done at a good pace and without major incidents thanks to previous preparation.
Aunque el grupo salió muy temprano desde Valladolid, la marcha se inició la primera jornada un poco más tarde de lo conveniente y recomendable. En Gonzar repusieron fuerzas y descansaron hasta que pasasen las horas más calurosas del día y menos cómodas para caminar.
On the second day, they walked slowly until after their octopus lunch, which helped them undertake the second part with more courage. They arrived in Arzua after overcoming a significant slope. The old hostel had few luxuries, but the food was exquisite and plentiful. There was still time to watch one of the matches of the European Championship.
The next stage went to Arca or Pedrouzo, which has these two names for the same place. There, the hostel had a swimming pool which was appreciated to relax the muscles after the day’s journey.
On the last day, only 20 kilometers were to be walked to arrive just in time for the pilgrims’ mass in the Cathedral of Compostela, in which the pilgrims from Valladolid participated in the readings. After the meal, there was a comforting walk through the city of the Apostle.
They were special days filled with art, history, and faith. The pilgrimage awakens a sense of solidarity in mutual support, encounter with God and self, and to remember what it is to live without everyday luxuries. This experience inspires pilgrims to a commitment to build a better world for everyone especially those who have less.