Avila and Segovia

Its been a long journey and an exciting few days. After over 30 hours of travel we have all arrived safely in Avila! After an unexpected short walk through the old city (with bags and all) we arrived at the Residencia de Santo Thomas and were greeted with a chance to rest before going back into Avila for a little sightseeing. The late meal times (dinner is between 9 & 11) will take some getting used to.

Day 2: This morning we visited the tomb of Saint John of the Cross and the spirit of Bishop Joe was definitely present as we celebrated Mass in the presence of this great mystic of the church. Bishop Joe insisted that we visit Segovia and the burial place of St. John of the Cross and the experience did not disappoint, with many pilgrims overcome with emotion as they shared in the Eucharist. Already we have begun to encounter the people from all over the world in our 2 days in Spain, meeting some Brazilian's at the Madrid Airport, American's in Avila and a group from Mexico who made an impromptu stop in Segovia and joined us for Mass at St. John's tomb. A walking tour of Segovia followed encompassing the Cathedral of Segovia, the Roman Aqueduct and the Alcazar, which was used as part of the basis of the Cinderella Castle created by Walt Disney. Back at the Residencia de Santo Thomas we have been joined by 51 pilgrims from the Townsville Diocese, with stories being shared about what each of the groups have experienced so far on pilgrimage (much easier than trying to converse in Spanish! Thankfully we have had Bea, our amazing Spanish guide who has helped us through the tough spots! Muchas Gracias Bea!)

And so we Buenas Noches (Good night) and there will be more from Spain in the days to come!