This archive report was first published on 19 October 2019.
As I walked the Camino de Santiago, I encountered a diverse group of pilgrims, each with their own story to tell. For some, the journey was a spiritual quest, while for others, it was a physical challenge. I found myself drawn to the stories of those who had been touched by faith, but also struggled with doubt.
One of the most striking aspects of the Camino was the way in which it brought people together. From the Benedictine monastery in northern France, where I shared a silent dinner with a group of monks, to the vibrant city of Laon, where I marveled at the power of miracles, every step of the way was a reminder of the complexities of human experience.
According to St. Augustine, 'miracles are not contrary to nature, but only contrary to what we know about nature.' As I walked, I found myself grappling with this idea, trying to understand the role of faith in a world that often seems to defy explanation.
My journey took me to the Swiss Alps, where I visited a permanent prayer site dedicated to Maurice, the first black saint. The story of this enigmatic figure, who was martyred in North Africa, is a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Christianity in Africa.
As I climbed to the high point of the Via Francigena, I met a priest named Father John of Flavigny, who shared with me his own struggles with faith. 'Doubts are allowed by God,' he said, 'it's a bit like training for sports. If you only ride a bicycle with the wind at your back, that's not going to help you. You need to ride your bike against the wind.'
