It’s Edward here! Kate has been quite diligent about posting, so I’ll add just a few highlights before recapping today’s journey. Kate has covered most of the exciting parts, so these are somewhat specific to my own interests.
The Home Town of Ignacio Ellacuría
Yesterday, the first major town we reached after leaving Bilbao was Portugalete, which happens to be tbe birth town of Ignacio Ellacuría, a prominant theologian in the 70s and 80s whose courageous leadership of the Universidad Centroamericana “José Simeón Cañas” in El Salvador during the country’s civil war led to his martrydom in 1989. Ellacuría was a tireless advocate of the poor. His theological work focused on the relationship between salvation and human history. I studied Ellacuría in depth this semester, so it was a treat to be able to visit his hometown.
Walking Infrastructure Paradise
For the trek from Portugalete and Pobeña, we walked on the best bike/walk infrastructure I’ve ever seen. It was almost like a freeway for non-cars.
At certain points, it was quite busy with walkers of all ages, most of whom were walking faster than we were. We were going along at a solid pace of 4 miles per hour, and we were being passed by elders with canes and families with young children. Clearly, a walking culture to envy!
Generosity
Even just in our first few days, it’s remarkable how much generosity makes the Camino possible. The albergues are funded by donations and staffed by volunteers who often provide free meals. Local residents greet us warmly and give us advice about what to expect ahead (and show endless patience in putting up with my rusty Spanish). This journey is only possible because of the kindness and hospitality of those along the way. We have much to be grateful for already.