Thoughts on the way from Burgdorf to Guemligen

From the diary of the pilgrim James

Our route takes us through the Krauchtal Valley to the Swiss capital, Bern. Instead of meditating and praying monks, the former Thorberg Monastery is now home to people serving a sentence. Would they like to swap places with us – despite the blisters on their feet? "Sometimes we're prisoners too," says my young companion. "That's why I decided on a different kind of vacation and set out on the pilgrimage route." - "To demonstrate freedom?" I ask ironically. "No, to live it and enjoy those things that are all too easily lost in the hustle and bustle of urban life and everyday working life." Adrian Brunner is right; why else would I, pilgrim James, be walking the millennia-old Way of St. James?

Thorberg

For reflection on the way

"I find the proud castle of former lords to be in stark contrast to the former hospice on the outskirts of the town of Burgdorf."

The angels, the messengers between God and us, faithful servants, ascend and descend ceaselessly…
We should know that we are not abandoned in this world and, God willing, we should also have physical protection through it.
The angels take our prayers up to heaven and bring us the message that our prayer has been answered.
Martin Luther

back