Looking at the guide book earlier this morning, we saw that the road ahead of us was going to be more psychologically challenging than the past few days. The route followed an ancient Roman road for about 26K. The road was completely flat and strait, with little to no shade. There had been snow capped mountains before, but today there was no scenic views. This provided us with ample time to chat and discuss more about what we study.
In the college seminary we primarily study philosophy. This science may seem to be somewhat unimportant for a Catholic parish priest to know, but it is actually incredible important. It is upon this science that we begin to grasp greater concepts in theology. Michael and I had no real experience with philosophy prior to seminary, but we have enjoyed learning it. It is not uncommon for us to walkout of a lecture and talk about how both of our minds have been blown. You can say that we have had many lightbulb moments over the past three years.
Since we love what we study, it is sometimes hard to not stop thinking about school, even on the Camino. A fellow pilgrim wanted to hear all about what we study. The conversation took many different forms over the next five hours, but it was incredibly fruitful. We were able to discuss not only philosophy, but also some basics of the Catholic Church. It was a tremendous amount of information and new knowledge for this other pilgrim, yet at the end of the conversation they said their outlook on religion and Catholicism had changed for the better.
Our discussion didn’t only make the long walk go much faster, but it reminded me once again of how important it is to further our own knowledge of the faith and help others to discern the truth. Leanring and teaching the faith is not something that takes a few days or even years to become proficient at. Rather, it takes a lifetime. Often this involves meeting people where they are at, and above all conversing with charity.
– Luke