Exciting Plans for Pilgrimage: USC Aiken Students to Walk the Camino de Santiago
In the charming city of Aiken, excitement is brewing among students at USC Aiken as two dedicated professors prepare to lead a unique journey next year. They will be guiding a group of students along the historic Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, a renowned pilgrimage route in Spain that is steeped in history and culture.
The History of the Camino
At the recent Aiken in the Alley lecture on November 20, Dr. Angel Renales, an assistant professor specializing in medieval and early modern Iberian literature and culture, introduced this fascinating venture. He spoke passionately about the Camino de Santiago, which leads to the grand Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. This cathedral is believed to house the remains of the apostle James the Greater, Spain’s patron saint, and has been a significant site of pilgrimage since the 9th century.
As Renales shared with the audience, walking the Camino is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about embracing the experiences that come along the way. He stated, “This is what I believe is the real joy of the Camino: it excels in granting and developing a set of skills that proves constructive in life.”
Collaborating for a Full Experience
Joining Dr. Renales in this adventure is Dr. Adam Pazda, a psychology professor who will enhance students’ understanding of the psychological aspects of the pilgrimage. While Renales will delve into the rich cultural, historical, and religious background of the Camino, Pazda will provide insights into the mental and emotional journeys participants will embark on.
The partnership between these two professors aims to foster a well-rounded experience for students. As Renales described, “Walking the Camino is constructive and transformative. Each town is different. The Camino is a versatile and enriching process that suits our innermost desires.”
From Past to Present: The Growth of the Pilgrimage
It’s fascinating to reflect on how the number of pilgrims has surged over the years. In 1971, only 67 people officially registered for the journey. Fast forward to recent times, and the number has ballooned to approximately half a million travelers setting off for Santiago last year alone! This dramatic increase illustrates a growing interest in exploring spiritual journeys and the historical significance of such paths.
Literary Inspirations
During the lecture, Renales also discussed notable literature surrounding the Camino. He highlighted the Codex Calixtinus, a 12th-century manuscript recognized as “Europe’s first travel guide.” This book not only provided practical tips for pilgrims but also shared stories that enriched the experience of those willing to undertake the trek. He also mentioned The Book of Margery Kempe, a 15th-century work considered by many to be the first autobiography in English. Kempe bravely navigated dangerous conditions in her pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, serving as an inspiration to future generations of pilgrims.
A Call to Adventure
The USC Aiken experience promises more than just a walk; students will immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of cultures along the route, meeting like-minded individuals pursuing their own spiritual paths. Daily reflections will allow students to process their experiences and share their thoughts with one another.
“You need to be there, see and write, in order to appreciate what we have in the present,” Renales encouraged. This journey is positioned not only as an adventure but as a deeply personal quest for those willing to take the first step.
What’s Next?
As part of the Aiken in the Alley series, which continues to offer free and engaging cultural events, the next lecture will feature Keely Rhodes, an assistant professor of music, on December 4. This ongoing series invites the community to learn and discover new ideas while enjoying vibrant discussions.
For those interested in the unique opportunity of walking the Camino, USC Aiken seems to be the perfect launching pad for a remarkable journey of personal growth and enlightenment.
