Yesterday, we had a short walk to the city of Leon which is in the midst of its week long celebrations for the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul (Wednesday). The city was alive with concerts, venders, bands walking the streets, and plenty of families and friends strolling about or enjoying some tapas (snacks) at resturants. With all this ruckus, we found santuary in a benedictine convent whichs runs an albergue with a hundred some beds. The place had a peaceful courtyard for conversations and place for personal reflection. While in the city, we walked around a good deal, stopping for a bite to eat and spending some time in the historic and beautiful San Isidore which has perpetual adoration in the main Church. We went to Mass at the Cathedral before stopping by a local grocery store to make some sandwhiches for dinner. Once finished, we realized that we still had 2 and a half hours before our albergue closed so we decided to walk the city to people watch and enjoy the festival.
Since today was a Sunday, we decided to take it easy again, which consisted of sleeping in till 7am, grabbing a bit of breakfast before a holy half hour and Mass in San Isidore this time. It was a great relief to have Mass in the morning since most of the Mass times on the Camino are at 7:30 pm. I also had an interesting experience going to confession to an elderly priest who only spoke spanish. I used a translation app, and I may not have understood his advice but he gave me absolution and my penance. It wasn’t the average confession but the sacraments span across language barriers as long as the essentials are there. Again, the Church is universal, and this is another great example.
Refreshed from a slow morning, we hiked pretty fast, finishing our 20kms in about four hours. On our way, we passed by some Shepard leading their sheep into town.
The afternoon was spent in relaxation with various activities of napping, catching up on news, prayer, some reading, and conversations. Dinner was cooked by two guys, one Italian and one from NY who have been walking together for a while. We were joined by a number of new friends and even got in a game of euchre among some Americans.
We realized today that we’ve been in Europe a little over four weeks and on the Camino for three. We are excited for our fourth week of walking as we quickly approach some larger mountains and the midway point of our entire pilgrimage.
-Michael
Dear Luke and Michael, I am greatly enjoying reading about your journey(s). I am praying for you both daily. I especially enjoy this because I was fortunate to live in Spain for five years in the early 70’s but in Zaragoza. I love your spirit and dedication and will continue to pray for both of you. Thank you for your writings. I live in Sun Prairie.