Book Review: Once Upon a Camino
A review of Once Upon a Camino, a novel by Matthew S. Wilson. In this story of love, adventure, and time travel from 2010 to 1954, the Camino teaches protagonist Tom, an investment banker used to having everything at his disposal, that instead of relying on money and technology, he must now rely on others for a meal and a place to sleep, and even for his own safety and security.
Read MoreHappiness Relay
Patricia Clark recounts a tale from her trek on Japan’s Nakasendo Trail when she saw an opportunity to participate in a chain reaction of goodwill. What many Americans call “paying it forward” and what her Japanese hiking companion called a “happiness relay” speaks to the universal language of kindness.
Read MoreAngels Along the Way
Bick Treut describes the seemingly random, perhaps divinely designed way a culturally diverse group of pilgrims come together to form what he calls a band of angels.
Read More2025 Grants: Supporting Camino Infrastructure
American Pilgrims in 2025 approved 22 grants totaling $160,700, the largest one-year total in the history of the organization’s grants program that furthers the organization’s mission by supporting Camino infrastructure.
Read MoreBook Review: Introspective Guides for the Camino and the Way Back
Reviews of two introspective guidebooks, one designed to accompany pilgrims on their journey and the other structured to guide pilgrims in integrating their experiences into daily life after a journey.
Read MoreA Pilgrim’s Soul
In this poem, Bill Artz offers a relatable sense of someone on a spiritual journey.
Read MoreAncient Melodies in Ancient Places
A classical musician on Camino is encouraged by her teacher to have a piece of medieval music ready to play at all times, and to play for listeners as a gift.
Read MoreA Village Comes to the Rescue
When a pilgrim falls ill along the Camino Francés and is hospitalized, locals from Estella—including friends he had made earlier that year as well as other strangers-turned-friends—came to his and his wife’s aid, showing them how community forms the foundation of Spanish culture in some villages.
Read MoreBuilding Bridges of Friendship & Learning: A Unique Cultural Exchange with Castile & León
A group of 33 American Pilgrims members traveled to Spain’s autonomous community of Castile and León for an immersive experience exploring the history, culture, wine, gastronomy, and hospitality of the region.
Read MoreBook Review: From Sore Soles to a Soaring Soul
A review of Blaine Rada’s, From Sore Soles to a Soaring Soul, a memoir about a man who walks the Camino de Santiago from St. Jean Pied de Port in a tight four weeks. Despite his fast pace, Rada still manages to walk with intentionality and finds himself embracing the unknown and engaging in unforeseen challenges.
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