10 years ago, my college buddy, Chris, mentioned the Camino as a way to honor a Jesuit we met at Xavier, Father Bill King, whom I’ve mentioned in earlier blogs and included a photo of him that I carry with me. Another college buddy, Johnny V, Chris and I would try to get together every year since Bill’s passing in remembrance of him. The Camino seemed the perfect way to remember, honor and celebrate Bill’s life and what it meant to each of us as our collective friendships continued long after graduation. We did The Way on bikes and started our journey in this town, Leon. So there should be some familiarity for me over the final 2 weeks of walking.

Today’s rest day was somewhat strange as the rhythm of walking from point to point had really conditioned us. We felt a little out of sorts. We had beautiful weather to walk through this ancient city with so much history. We bumped into one of our Irish buddies (impact players on our journey for sure) and had to say goodbye to him as his Camino journey will resume in Leon a year from now. Below you will see pictures of one of the grandest cathedrals in Spain- Cathedral de Leon, built in the 13th century with strong Gothic and French influences. Carla and I were lucky enough to attend a mass there and receive communion in this awe inspiring House of God..

Chris, Johnny V and me in a cycling jersey we created for the journey in 2013. Too bad I didn’t get a shot of the back but I’m sure my cycling buddies are tired of seeing it.

Some shots of The Cathedral de Leon- do not do it justice

Parking is tight in Leon

Bike art- yeah!