Friday,11Sept2026 – Araia to San Vicente de Arana – Day 4

Friday,11Sept2026 – Araia to San Vicente de Arana

Before describing my day on the Camino, I would like to remember all those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Throughout out today, I have kept them in my heart and in my prayers. Today was the third day in a row of climbing over a mountain. My legs are very sore! The views were spectacular and the changing leaves on some of the trees along with the cold wind reminded me that autumn is on the way. The cool air was a welcome thing because the sun was bright and,combined with the exertion of climbing over a mountain, the breeze felt wonderful. There was nowhere to stay in the planned stop for today (Alda) so I pressed on for 3 more kilometers to the next town of San Vicente de Arana where there is a municipal shelter for pilgrims. The focus of today’s meditation was on our purpose as human beings and creatures of the Almighty. Saint Ignatius of Loyola in his Spiritual Exercises, reminds us that we are created to be loved by God, to love God, and to love our neighbor. It was a beautiful meditation for today.