I’ve noticed that pilgrimages are filled with unexpected surprises and ‘God-incidences’. Rarely do such journeys go as planned and it is in the unforeseen that the greatest gifts often lie. Often the hidden gifts lie in what unfolds along the way, and in the aspects of the journey over which we have least control. It means though a willingness to
trust that God is holding this journey and that somehow, I will be provided for.
I recall many years ago as a penniless student I went on a pilgrimage to the birthplace of St Ignatius in Loyola. It was long before the days of internet and mobile phones. My travelling companions and I arrived in this somewhat remote area shortly before dark, intending to stay in the Youth hostel. When we arrived, we discovered that it was closed for the winter. The only
other place to stay was a three-star hotel which none of us could afford. I imagined that we would end up sleeping on the steps of the Basilica.
Eventually we found a convent, and not being able to speak Spanish, I eventually managed in my broken French, waving a copy of the life of St Ignatius, to explain to the sister who answered the door the predicament we were in.
She knew the priest in charge of the youth hostel and found him at a party being held for the 50th anniversary of his ordination. He opened the hostel especially for us, at no charge, and the sisters brought us bread and cheese and wine enough for a feast and organised the laundry area so we could wash our clothes. As we ate in clean and comfortable surroundings, we were in awe
of how God had provided for us in such an extraordinary way.
What unforeseen moments in your journey now could become unexpected avenues of grace?
