Religious support activities for pilgrims along the Camino are provided by parishes, convents and hostels. The number of activities they organize and propose is increasing, with the purpose of welcoming pilgrims according to Christian principles. The Archdiocese of Pamplona and Tudela first launched this initiative in Pamplona, intended for the dozens of pilgrims who pass through the city every day, from April to October.
The activities blend both religious and cultural aspects. Participants visit two significant temples in Pamplona. Then a prayer is held and pilgrims are invited to participate in the Eucharist.
SCHEDULE OF THE WELCOME
The programme of activities is usually as follows: in 2019, the last year that there was a welcoming event, a gathering was held with the pilgrims at 5:15 p.m., every day from April 25th to October 15th, except from July 1st to 15th. Pilgrims were convened to the entrance to the Cathedral. First they walked to the church of Siervas de María in Plazuela de San José, where pilgrims held a gathering-prayer and shared their concerns and hopes for about 15 minutes. They were then offered a free guided tour of the Cathedral. The entire activity was carried out in Spanish and English.
The objective of this gathering is to help pilgrims upon their arrival in the city. The experience so far has been very positive for both the volunteers and the pilgrims. Throughout 2019, 3,344 pilgrims from 62 different countries participated. 18% were Spanish and 82% foreigners. Among foreigners, the largest number were from the United States (582), France (354), Italy (353). Plus, it is a good occasion to open the doors of the churches to walkers with the help of volunteers. The initiative has been greatly received, proof of which is the number of volunteers – more than thirty people interested in collaborating in the project. The group is further supported by several priests who offer the sacrament of reconciliation during the gathering before finally holding the pilgrim mass.