Day 2:
Saturday morning, we drove to St. Michael Catholic Church in Brattleboro for 8:00am Mass said by our own Father Peter. Celebrating the Eucharist that morning was a perfect reminder of one of the reasons we embark on a pilgrimage – to reflect on what Christ did for us in His Passion and crucifixion, and to build our faith in Him.
Our 15 mile walk began from the church through the streets of Brattleboro, eventually ending at the campground in Newfane. Walking through town provoked curiosity from the locals. The guy on the motorcycle nodding our way as we waited at a stoplight; the mother, smoking a cigarette on a front porch while her kids played in the yard, calling out cheerfully; the hitchhiker, making a pilgrimage of his own, wishing us well.
Leaving town, we made our way through rural backroads. The sun was high and hot that day, and it wasn’t long before we began to feel its effects. It was a good time to remember the third rule of the pilgrimage: no complaining. Quiet hour was observed between 10:00 and 11:00am, a time to turn inward, pray, and appreciate our surroundings. There is no shortage of natural beauty in Vermont, and stopping to watch a kaleidoscope of butterflies flit past was a good excuse to catch your breath.
At this point in the walk, we had spread out into small groups, falling into step with those of a similar pace. After quiet hour, conversations were struck up again, and the fourth rule of the pilgrimage could be accomplished: talk to someone new. The wonderful thing about a parish that is so active and welcoming is that there is always someone new joining in, so those old stories you keep repeating to your friends can become fresh and exciting again. The real prize is in the listening; taking the time to learn about someone builds relationship and can teach the greatest lessons.
Lunch was our reward for a four mile trek uphill – and since everything that goes up must come down – the second half of the day started off almost blissfully. Throughout the day, our “Angels” were ever at the ready to provide water, snacks, first aid, or a ride if the going got too tough.
A thunderstorm was the final test as we neared the campground, but after a long, hot day the rain was a welcome relief. Later, around the campfire, we tiredly joked and prayed and joked some more. Then we all disappeared into the dark, knowing sleep would come quickly.