Alone in the Crypts by Andrew (a pilrgim)
Today is our first actual day of pilgrimage. Our first stop, after a traditional English breakfast of eggs sausage beans ham and a tomato half, was the St. Martins Priory. After our visit to the priory we spearheaded straight to the heart of Canterbury where we were given free reign for a few hours for looting and pillaging. Then we gathered and entered the Cathedral and took part in even song and a communion. The evening wound down and we said evening prayer.
What spoke to me today was the historical elements. We learned of how Christianity had been brought to England, how England may have got its name, and the famous story of St. Thomas. St Thomas story was touching and there was a tangible feeling of connection when we were at the site of his death. The history of our church is interesting and engaging especially while we are over where it happened. You can feel where the Romans and barbarians met and see the churches they used and worshipped in.
Our pilgrimage is not just about visiting sites and places. Its also about the spiritual part. Today I learned an important lesson as I spent time alone in the crypts underneath the cathedral. I learned that silence is not the act of not speaking but the act of listening. I learned to listen to God and hear him in all places.