Living the Camino Back Home

‘Here is a book which can be seriously said to fill a pressing need.’ The Irish Catholic

Brendan McManus and Katherine O’Flynn have worked for some years as Camino Companions, a ministry for welcoming pilgrims in Santiago. They noticed that as well as providing a space for pilgrims to tell their unique Camino stories while in Santiago, pilgrims wanted help to reflect on the importance and relevance for their lives back home (the real Camino!). Living the Camino back Home is a suggestion as to what pilgrims might do on returning home in terms of keeping that Camino spirit alive. Although written from the Christian perspective of its authors, it can be used by pilgrims of all faiths and none.

We are all pilgrims in the world and our challenge is to live life as a journey, keeping our hearts open. Back at home we easily forget this and can drift along on autopilot. However, God (or Mystery, or Spirit) is always with us, and can be seen especially when looking back on our experience. Hence the importance of reflection and taking time out to get perspective.

Brendan McManus SJ is a Jesuit priest and currently works as a Spiritual Director and retreat giver. He has published a number of books, some on the Camino and others on Ignatian spirituality. With Jim Deeds, he co-authored the award-winning Finding God in the Mess trilogy.

Katherine O’Flynn FCJ is a psychotherapist and works as a volunteer with Camino Companions, an organisation set up by the FCJ to welcome pilgrims to Santiago, offering them an opportunity to reflect on the experience and the meaning of their pilgrimage.