Some Camino Reflections: Arriving in Roncesvalles

And so down, down, down we went...from 4,757 feet to 950 ft below, in two very long and rocky and 

dangerous hours, until we reached our goal.

 After storing our boots and paying for our board and beds, we were shown to our bunks in a tiny cubicle in a great big room full of other pilgrims like us.

 Our "drying the laundry" window ledge and misty view!

After dinner and conversations we crossed the yard to the church...

Went up yet more stairs....

Through passages until...

We reached our destination...Holy Mass in Spanish...

And a Pilgrim's Blessing with our fellow travelers from all over the world..

Before exploring the ancient crypt below!

(The text of a medieval rite dated 1078 preserved in the Missal of Vich Cathedral, Barcelona, Spain. At the Abbey of Roncesvalles the blessing is used at the end of the Mass for the blessing of pilgrims passing through.)

Blessing the Pilgrims

Lord Jesus Christ, you taught us through the Apostle St Paul that here below we have no lasting city and must always seek the heavenly city. Hear our prayers for these pilgrims we commission. May the Holy Spirit breathe his grace into their hearts; may he enliven their faith, strengthen their hope and feed the flame of their love. May they thus make their pilgrimage in the true spirit of penance, sacrifice and expiation. May the same spirit purify their minds from every evil thought. May he defend their hearts and give them the constant help of his protection so that they can reach the objective of their journey safely and by means of this pilgrimage they are now starting merit to come one day to the heavenly Jerusalem. You who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

R: Amen

May the Lord always guide your steps and be your inseparable companion throughout your journey.

R: Amen

May our Lady of Roncesvalles grant you her motherly protection, defend you against all dangers of soul and body. Through her intercession may you arrive safely at the end of your pilgrimage.

R: Amen

May St Raphael the Archangel accompany you throughout your journey as he accompanied Tobias and ward off every contrary or troublesome incident.

R: Amen

And may almighty God bless you, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

R: Amen

Go in the peace of Christ

(Translated from a French version of the Latin original by Brother David Leo fsc)