(This acts as the "Welcome to Galicia" sign!)
I have arrived at the city of Sarria, which is less than 75 miles from Santiago. I have also crossed into Galicia, the last Spanish province on this Camino.
A number of people start the Camino at Sarria, as it's the last place where you can begin the Camino and still receive a certificate of completion upon arrival at Santiago de Compostela.
Tragedy struck the Camino, as a pilgrim, who was staying at my albergue in the town of Cacabelos, died in his sleep. He was in his late 60s. Please pray for the repose of his soul.
Every year a number of pilgrims die along the route. It's not that the Camino is so strenuous (though it can be that and more), but that those who undertake it may not be physically fit.
I do want to leave you with some good news. The Bishop has granted me permission to spend the month of June hearing confessions at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in southwest France. I am grateful to God for this special opportunity. It will be very spiritually enriching.
