The final farewell
We came on our own. But we left united by a common bond. We cross path many times out in the paddocks, along the quiet country road, across the cliff tops, along the beach, in the bar, or at dining table. We have encounter God along the way in many ways, each in our own way. Go forth and be the radiators!
I hope that you have found what you were looking for in this Camino.
Then it was time for us to go home. The mini-bus came and took the interstate pilgrims back to Portland.
Luke and Peter (and Michael C) Well Done!
As the only remaining South Australian left, I happily farewell all the pilgrims. I was very proud, felt good that each of the pilgrim had achieved their personal best. It was sad that we have to move on so soon. I could do with a few more days of the companionship of the group.
I discovered that amongst the pilgrims, there is a growing appetite to walk the Camino de Santiago. A “short” walk is from St Jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Compostela- 800km or a slightly longer walk is from Le Puy en Velay or Vezelay of about 1500km. Noel who holds the record for 10 Caminos might be the first one to walk again. Andy is definitely making a trip in May 2015. Then, there are a few of us who aspire to walk the European Camino. We will sty in touch.
My son, Ren, came from Adelaide to pick me up. I had lunch with him at the historical Royal Oak Hotel before heading home. On the way home, we stopped to view “The Father Woods Tree”. An area of land was cleared and carving were actually sculptured out of gum tree stump to tell the story. It was worth a visit.
“This area of land on the original Limestone Ridge Station was a favourite stop-over during his (Tenison Woods) travels across his parish, and he could often be found preparing sermons, celebrating Mass and rejoicing in the splendour of his natural surrounds beneath the shelter of the towering River Red Gum.
Source: http://www.visitmarymackillop.com.au
Seven tree stumps stand in the middle of the park across the road from The Father Woods Tree. These tree stumps are being sculptured into the image of Father Woods and Mary MacKillop, plus symbols of their work.
This was my third visit to Penola and I am sure that the sacredness of the place, and the attraction of the Coonawarra wine will draw me back again and agin in the future.
St. Mary MacKillop Camino 