When James the Great, one of Christ’s closest disciples, accepted the call to leave his fishing nets and follow Jesus, he likely never imagined that his footsteps would inspire millions more to walk in his name. And yet, centuries later, the Camino de Santiago—the Way of St. James—has become one of the most influential spiritual paths in the world.
From Apostle to Pilgrim Icon
According to tradition, James traveled to the Iberian Peninsula to preach the gospel before returning to Jerusalem, where he was martyred (Acts 12:2). Though scripture doesn’t detail the full extent of his missionary work, legend tells us that his body was miraculously transported back to the coast of Galicia, Spain. There, his tomb was discovered in the 9th century, giving rise to Santiago de Compostela—“St. James of the Field of Stars”—and to one of the most revered pilgrimage routes in Christian history.
A Trail That Transforms
The Camino has not only reshaped the geography of Spain but also the hearts of people across centuries and cultures. Medieval pilgrims journeyed to Santiago to seek healing, forgiveness, or penance. Kings and paupers alike walked side by side, united by a shared search for meaning.
Today, over 300,000 people walk the Camino each year. Some come with religious purpose, others with questions, grief, or hope. Many leave transformed.
📖 A recent pilgrim, Carmen from Chile, carried her late husband’s ashes along the Camino. In her words, “The Camino didn’t heal my grief—it baptized it.”
🚶♂️ A veteran from the U.S. found solace and strength after trauma by walking the Primitivo route.
🌍 And countless more—atheists, seekers, believers—have found clarity, courage, and connection along the Way.
Why It Still Matters Today
In our hurried, distracted world, the legacy of St. James calls us back to the essentials: faith, humility, perseverance, and love. Walking the Camino—whether in Spain or in spirit—offers a sacred space to pause, reflect, and remember who we truly are.
This month, as we honor the Feast of St. James on July 25th, we invite you to rediscover this legacy with us.
🌟 New Resource: Walking with St. James the Great
This 30-day devotional guide follows the life and lessons of St. James through scripture, legend, modern stories, and practical reflections. Whether you’re walking the Camino in person, virtually, or simply journeying through life, this guide will help you walk with purpose and grow closer to God.
🛒 Download the devotional eBook here:
🚶♀️ Walk a Camino Route Virtually with Our App:
Reconnect with your body and spirit by choosing from several virtual Camino routes on the Camino for Good app.
Join the legacy. Walk the Way. Carry St. James’ torch into the world.
Buen Camino,
The Enlightened Journeys Team
