Reflection by: Nicole Chow
Chronicles of a pilgrim – Day 10 – AVILA
#sequelachristi2024
Day 10 began with a chilly walk through the ancient streets of Avila, where we spent time in the Basilica of St Teresa, reflecting on her life and spiritual legacy, as well as the Avila Cathedral. When afternoon arrived, we gathered for lunch before continuing our journey to Arenas de San Pedro, where we celebrated Mass at the Royal Chapel of San Pedro de Alcantara and explored its serene sanctuary.
What struck me the most today was the theme of self-sacrifice and the call to surrender one’s comforts for a higher purpose. In the Basilica, we saw the rope that St Teresa used to whip herself for self-discipline, a vivid reminder of the lengths to which she went to purify herself. We also stood before a life-sized cell of St Peter of Alcantara’s cell where he slept, which was a cramped, bare space so small that one could not stand fully upright inside. It contained only a stone platform for sitting and a wooden armrest for support. The simplicity of it all was striking. These austere conditions seemed to reflect their complete devotion to God, a devotion that required detachment from personal comfort and earthly desires, towards spiritual growth. As Fr John Paul mentioned in his homily, interior freedom demands a detachment from not just material comforts, but also from ego and selfish pleasures.
As the day drew to a close, we journeyed back to Avila, the setting sun casting a warm glow over the mountains. With the final night in the city upon us, I find myself reflecting on the profound faith of St Teresa and St Peter. Their extraordinary humility and devotion amazed me.