What's God Telling Me?
5/27/26 · Ron VandenBurg“Father Matthew spoke about Saint James and the deeper meaning of the Camino—exactly the perspective reset I didn’t know I needed. ”
On the Camino, you never quite know who you’re going to meet.
On my first day of hiking, I arrived in Vigo with plans to visit the main cathedral. Naturally, I ended up at a different one—thanks, Google Maps. At the entrance, I lingered, hoping to snag a Camino stamp while a group of priests chatted nearby. When I realized they were speaking English, I struck up a conversation and met Father Matthew and Father Marcello from Boston. They asked about my stamp book, so I showed them my credencial. Turns out, they were leading a group of young Catholics along the Camino. We wished each other well and went our separate ways.
Ron VandenBurg and tour leader, Fred Redekop, alongside fellow travelers on the Camino de Santiago
The next day, my group leader and I ran into a large, lively bunch on the trail. To my surprise, it was the Boston fathers and their crew. They were just as surprised to see me. We snapped a cheerful group selfie, exchanged greetings, and continued on.
A few days later, the hiking was still wonderful—but my sightseeing luck had taken a turn. Churches were either closed for renovations or locked up for their afternoon breaks. I’ll admit, I became a slightly cranky tourist. So when one church finally opened at 5 p.m., I hurried in for a stamp. Just as I approached the woman in charge, she covered her table and walked away. No stamp for me.
But then I heard music.
Inside the Padrón Cathedral, a service was underway—in English. I slipped in and joined the worshippers. Across the room, Father Matthew caught my eye and gave a small nod. He and Father Marcello were leading the service. Father Matthew spoke about Saint James and the deeper meaning of the Camino—exactly the perspective reset I didn’t know I needed. Afterward, we chatted, both amused at how often we kept crossing paths. And yes—I eventually got my stamp.
When my group reached Santiago Cathedral, we celebrated the end of our journey and all the kilometers behind us. Not long after, I spotted the Boston group arriving and happily volunteered as their photographer. By now, even the young pilgrims recognized me.
The following day, I joined thousands at the noon Mass to watch the famous Botafumeiro (incense holder) swing through the cathedral. There were the two Boston fathers again—this time participating in the service. Father Marcello spoke part of it in English, and I even received the Eucharist from him.
Later that day, I toured the cathedral and its museums, including a visit to the roof and towers. The tour was supposed to be in Spanish, with a bit of English mixed in—but when the priests and their group showed up, the guide switched to English for everyone. Another small Camino miracle.
Finally, I made my way to the Pilgrim’s Passport Office to receive my Compostela. As I approached, I heard, “Long time, no see.” It was Father Matthew.
We exchanged email addresses, and I promised to send photos. What started as a chance meeting with a couple of priests turned into a week full of unexpected encounters, meaningful moments, and a few well-timed blessings along the way.