Albergues on the Camino provide physical nourishment for the body, a place to rest and recuperate for the way ahead. Marist Fathers, a religious congregation born in France in 1836, noticed however an even greater need for spiritual nourishment. So they have set up an albergue at Sahagun.

In addition to all the facilities needed by the pilgrims, provided in a wonderful atmosphere of an old convent building, the Marist fathers and brothers also provide a rich spiritual program. First by being what they are, authentic witnesses the Gospel message. Every afternoon there is a Pilgrim coffee, an opportunity for pilgrims to discuss their Camino experience.

What is interesting is that pilgrims are encouraged to use visual symbols chosen from a set of cards, that best represent what each finds most important or most relevant to their own Camino experience. It is a very helpful way for pilgrims to open up and start sharing. The evening mass has a double pilgrim blessing both by the priest officiating the mass, and by the Mother superior from the nearby Benedictine monastery.

Another interesting thing, is that every Pilgrim is given a small gift, a piece of paper with a Gospel quote, available in several languages. It is amazing how many pilgrims have commented, how very relevant those quotes were to their individual issues at that particular moment in life.