The Camino de Santiago is a life-changing experience for those who walk it, so there’s nothing better than walking together as a family. It’s an opportunity for all the family members to practice the virtues and values that make a human being virtuous and just.
Striving to live this experience as a moment of personal and spiritual growth is what differentiates a pilgrim from a mere tourist or hiker. Who would want to travel a long way with the bare essentials on his back? Undoubtedly, someone pursuing a purpose, a goal, an end, or a promise.
You have to walk about 60 miles in order to earn the certificate of Compostela and the plenary indulgence. This year, 2021, and next year have been declared Compostela Holy Years: years of grace and forgiveness.
In short, a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela can be a moment of renewal in our lives and that of our family. It can also be a watershed moment for us to find a new beginning.
It’s certainly a great experience, and one of the best gifts we can give to our children and to ourselves. If we make this pilgrimage, we’ll all cherish it in our memories and in our hearts.
Sometimes, we tend to dedicate only our meager “spare time” to our family. Work life, errands or various other commitments steal most of our day. Making this pilgrimage journey with our family can be a great opportunity to establish stronger bonds with our family members. It can also help us to remember the deepest values that sustain our home.
The route of St. James is an important learning opportunity in our lives. In the case of children and teenagers, it will show them that every effort has its reward.
In fact, the reward isn’t merely being able to check with satisfaction the map with the points and stages covered and to look with pride at our certificate, complete with the stamps given at each stage of the journey. It’s much more! For example,
It is always a good time to make a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. However, this year, due to the pandemic, it’s fundamental to be aware of the various safety measures adopted in each territory.
Even under current circumstances, it’s a highly recommended trip. Families who decide to make a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela with children will experience a real family adventure full of values. Likewise, the emotions and lessons will remain in the memory and hearts of all.
