Letter for Past, Present, and Puture Pilgrims

Dear Pilgrimage Family,

Ah! We have made it! The last leg of the journey...It is hard to believe that we have actually made it this far and have arrived in South Africa. We feel your spirit with us. Although you are not here in person, we recognize that it is only through the effort, energy and contribution of ALL of us that any of us are here at all.

We want you to know that you are all part of our morning prayer ­ “for all pilgrims past and present...” During our time of meditation and reflection in Nigeria, as we came to the completion of the West African portion of this sojourn, we created an alter room of prayer and gratitude. In this cleansing period, we dedicated a space to honor and acknowledge past pilgrims. Folks pulled out all their pictures of you who could not be with us in person, and other items that represent your energy. We realize that this Pilgrimage, like a mighty river is the coming together of all the prayers, sacrifice, creativity, hope and faith of so, so many. This Pilgrimage is all of us ­ the walkers, the hosts, the organizers, those giving water, baking cookies, smiling, or waving as we pass.

Here, in South Africa, we number now about 40, with 7 African walkers at present. It is clear that the indigenous peoples of South Africa were enslaved and many still are. The extent of cultural banishment that has occurred is appalling. South Africa, for the most part, does not look like any of the Africa we have seen. Rather, it looks like North America. Very, very few people wear traditional clothing; street market places were banned, so there are none; most of the elders we see are working for White people. At this moment, we are in Edendale town, in Kwazulu Natal province, the center of the Zulu nation. It is very reminiscent of native reservations in the United States.

At this moment, South Africa is in the process of redefining who she is, so that all people can live more equally. Because of this, and because South Africa has created for herself one of the most progressive constitutions in the world since the abolishment of apartheid, it becomes clear that this is a land of infinite possibilities. The spirit of the people here is quite amazing in light of the horrific enslavement and colonization they have experienced. In many ways, South Africa challenges all that we have been learning so far. As we know more people and feel their spirit, and as we learn of this history and struggle, our connection and understanding grows.

Before the closing ceremonies on June 12 in Cape Town, we will be taking a few days to reflect together. We will pool our pictures of the last 12 months of this journey and share stories of the US and other portions of the Pilgrimage with current walkers. Your spirit will be very much a part of this process, and even if not in flesh, you will all be with us at the closing ceremonies.

We miss you all and look forward to returning home where we can share new and old stories together with you, either in person, or by telephone, letters, or email.

We send many blessings,
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