Pilgrimage from Montserrat to Manresa: walking, sharing, contemplating

The 15-mile route is part of the 27th stage of the Ignatian Way

It all starts early in the morning. Everyone is at school at 7:20 a.m. You get there and see everyone outside the bus. The atmosphere is palpable, with everyone eager to walk and learn. When we arrive at Montserrat, the initial prayer is uttered: You are reminded that you are here to come together and learn about the steps taken by Saint Ignatius.

The pilgrimage is fantastic. Not only due to the spectacular landscapes and the views of Montserrat that accompany you throughout the journey, but also for the people who walk with you: the ones you already know and the friends you are yet to make, always encouraging you to keep going. You walk, learning about everyone there and about yourself. Finally, you arrive at the Sanctuary of the Cave of Saint Ignatius, where the bright colours and beautiful mosaics welcome the end of your pilgrimage.

Ramón M. H., 3rd-year TQE

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The pilgrimage from Montserrat to Manresa was an experience that I really enjoyed. We got to school very early and travelled by bus to Montserrat. We spent the whole day walking, chatting with friends, thinking about our own things, and meeting people we had never spoken to before. When we arrived in Manresa, we said a prayer in the church and then returned to school.

This pilgrimage helped me to think about issues that I usually don't have time to think about, and it also helped me to open up more with my schoolmates from other classes and year groups. I think this activity is really worthwhile, since it's not like people think (praying all the way in complete silence). It's really fun and you have a great time. However, you do need to be mentally ready for the walk, as it takes many hours and you need to be well-prepared.

In conclusion, the pilgrimage was a very enriching experience both for me personally and in terms of my relationships with others. It allowed us to enjoy nature and friends, and I will definitely do it again next year.

Clara A. C., 4th-year TQE

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I had never been on a pilgrimage and this year I just said: why not? I had the wrong idea about this spiritual activity. I had always wondered why my classmates would go out walking for a whole day, but this year I realised that it's not just walking, it's meeting new classmates, people who may have been in your class for many years but you've never talked to about anything other than school; it's moments of silence, reflection, and laughter.

I personally recommend this experience to everyone, to break from the routine a little and not think about what is coming next, but about the present.

Sofía L. G., 1st-year BATX.