The Journey: A Guide for the Modern Pilgrim

This beautiful book by husband-and-wife team Maria Ruiz Scaperlanda and Michael Scaperlanda will lead you further on your spiritual journey even if you have no plans for a "real" pilgrimage on the horizon. Each writing from their own viewpoints, Maria and Michael weave personal stories with practical information in way that draws the reader in and encourages the reader to go out into the world to experience God with a pilgrim heart. At one point I was so moved by Maria's word, I found myself in tears. I wholeheartedly recommend to this book to anyone who is walking a spiritual path and looking for ways to deepen their awareness of the divine in everyday life.

I have read the work of Maria Ruiz Scaperlanda before and have always been impressed with her depth and style. "The Journey" caught my eye so as to get a glimpse into the thoughts of Maria's husband, Michael, knowing that this was the first book he and Maria had written together. What was a casual purchase has turned into a far reaching recommendation to friends, coworkers, pilgrimage directors and countless others. I highly recommend it to people of all ages, all faiths. "The Journey" leads the reader into the exploration of pilgrimage. At first glance, one might assume this will be an overview of pilgrimage sites and trip preparation. Begin reading, and you find a renewed awareness for the spiritual journey that we live daily, weekly, and throughout lives. The depth of spirituality these writers possess is so impressive and thought-provoking, yet they move with humility and humor throughout. They weave historical events with common daily chores, lend an empathetic pen to victims of tragedy -- yet celebrate the courage and earned respect of those people, places and events that have touched us as we "walk with a pilgrim heart". This book gently blends every day circumstance with the unseen but often felt spiritual presence and pull. Yes, it encourages us to look locally, nationally, internationally for pilgrimage sites that may enable us to deepen our faith. But it does something more. From the first chapter, it reminds us that we have a choice. We can live life as a tourist or as a pilgrim. One enjoys the view. The other experiences the trip, lights a path for those who go after her, is touched by all those who enter the sacred space of the journey, and inspires those same souls as well. Subtly, this book inspires us to find our purpose on this planet, in this life. And time's-a-wastin'. Carrie Swearingen Chicago