Journey of the Soul

What a Difference a Day Makes

Today began with something I hadn’t experienced in a while—a decent night’s sleep. I woke up feeling refreshed and full of energy. The day kicked off with an incredible cup of coffee from a little gem called Shot Me Coffee, and it only got better from there.

At 10:30 AM, we attended the English Pilgrim’s Mass near the cathedral. It was deeply moving. Pilgrims from all over the world—Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, England, the U.S.—gathered together, each sharing where their journey had begun. Our priest opened the Mass with a powerful reflection on the Camino as both a physical path and a spiritual metaphor for life. He reminded us to cherish every step—blisters and all—and to carry the spirit of the Camino into our everyday lives. He spoke of the “Camino angels” we encountered along the way, and how we are now called to be that for others.

During the service, we each lit candles and offered prayers for special intentions. It was heartfelt and reverent. One moment that really stayed with me was when the priest said, “The Camino is a movement of the body and a journey of the soul.”

I was honored to deliver the prayer intentions entrusted to me before and during my pilgrimage. I truly felt that grace was poured over each one.

Afterwards, we met up with our fearless leader, Christopher, and Becky and I joined him for the noon Pilgrim’s Mass inside the Cathedral—our group had actually contributed to this offering.

As the Mass began, nine priests from various countries processed to the altar. The celebrant read out the attending pilgrim groups, and to my surprise, one of the first names mentioned was Miles Christi of California. That name hit me hard—it’s the order of priests who have served as chaplains at four of our kids’ high schools: Cathedral Catholic and Mater Dei Catholic.

Immediately, I started texting Father Martin, Father Claude, and my friend Christopher, who’s studying in Rome to become a Miles Christi priest. Just earlier that day, I had offered prayers for them. I whispered a prayer: “Lord, if it’s Your will, let me connect with them.”

And then—God blew me away. At the very end of the Mass, the final blessing was given by none other than Father Claude. I had worked alongside him for years at Mater Dei. I was overwhelmed with joy.

And as if that wasn’t enough… the Botafumeiro came out. It was majestic—a breathtaking moment I’ll never forget (even though my video didn’t turn out!).

After Mass, I tried to wave to Father Claude as the priests processed out. A church nun nearly tackled me, thinking I was crossing into the procession—but it was worth it! We waited near the sacristy and found out the San Diego group Father Claude was with had actually sponsored the Botafumeiro that day.

What an incredible Godincidence.

From there, our feet felt lighter. We celebrated with churros and chocolate, did some shopping, enjoyed lunch, received a blessing at St. Francisco Church, knocked out some laundry, and ended the evening with one final, joy-filled Italian dinner with our group.

What an unforgettable conclusion to this leg of our pilgrimage. My heart is full. The connections we’ve made and the grace we’ve received have left me stronger in faith and deeply grateful.

This is the Jubilee Year of Hope, and it’s become a beautiful theme for my journey. Tomorrow, we head to Rome to continue the celebration.

Tomorrow, I will post the video of the Botafumeiro!Baca lagi