An incredible evening in

Hello dear ones,

Actually, I consider myself a very rational thinking and not really spiritual or even religious person, but what happened that evening in Grañón at the Church's Refuge is hard to put into words. I needed some time to 'process' it (which is actually the wrong word, internalize might be more fitting).

It all started when Hanni, Barbara, and I decided to stay overnight in the church's refuge (based on a tip from Svend - who always has great tips and also stayed there :)). This refuge is actually a church. The 'concept' is based on helping, compassion, and supporting other pilgrims. This includes cooking dinner together, eating together, cleaning up and washing dishes afterwards, or attending a mass in the church (if you like), etc. All of this is based on donations only. As you have seen in my previous pictures, the sleeping arrangements are very simple and you can't necessarily choose your bed neighbor :).

So we all had a simple but good meal together. After washing up and cleaning, there was supposed to be a so-called reflection. At that time, we didn't really know what to expect...

We were taken to a kind of balcony/terrace inside the actual church. It was illuminated only by candles. A beautiful atmosphere spread. The room was almost circular in layout. Everyone took a seat either on small benches or on the floor. The hospitallers said a few words about compassion, the Camino, etc. Then one of them took a small candle in their hand and asked us to say a few words about the Camino, why we are here, what we feel, etc., in the light of this candle. Those who simply wanted to remain silent could do so... Additionally, everyone was asked to speak in their own native language.

So the candle was passed to the first pilgrim... and what happened after that is hard to put into words. It was simply wonderful! Even though I didn't really understand anything except English and German, you could still perceive and feel the emotions of the speakers in every little speech. It felt simply incredible... and involuntarily tears came to my eyes, I just had to cry out of happiness and emotion. It was an incredibly liberating cry... and it wasn't out of fear, terror, or anger, I believe these were emotions deep from the heart. I really wish I could convey this experience here even remotely... but it's impossible. To feel the whole thing, you probably just had to be there.

After everyone had spoken or remained silent, we hugged each other goodbye and went into the church's garden. Many people felt like me, they didn't know what to say. Everyone had to process what they had just experienced.

And in that moment, I couldn't put my feelings into words. I was so overwhelmed and speechless. So we sat silently in the evening twilight in the church's garden...

What the Camino does to you is simply indescribable, you have to experience it!

Love and incredibly happy greetings!

Nicole