Today was a travel day from Lisieux to St Jean Pied de Port where we will begin the 500 mile Camino to Santiago

Today’s pictures can be viewed here. Today’s prayer intentions: Virginia Motter special intentions for family healing and parish ministry.

It was refreshing to begin the day with such cool weather. We could actually see our breath in the 43 degree morning!

We successfully navigated 3 train changes and had a good day on the trains to pray and see the French countryside. We are not big fans of major cities so it was nice to get outside of Paris and see the rural areas.

When we arrived in Bayonne we saw many pilgrims all lined up looking for the train to St Jean. You know you’re getting close when the backpacks begin to appear!!

We checked into our small “flat” and decided to make use of the kitchen for one last home cooked meal before the days of taverns and alburgues begin.

One last reflection for the day. We are discussing how this pilgrimage is beginning much differently than our last experience with the Camino. In 2016 we travelled to Rome and then made our way here to St Jean Pied de Port. This time, our experience by our own choices, is more austere. No fancy dinners, very basic accommodations, and less sight seeing. I have a feeling that this Camino is already providing what we need. More for our souls to grow in grace… that’s my hope.

So from 2016 to 2022…..

Today’s pictures can be viewed here. Today’s prayer intentions: Virginia Motter special intentions for family healing and parish ministry.