USD-Magazine-Spring-2025

The Camino Will Provide Stories From the Camino de Santiago By Lissette Martinez ’03 (BA)

“All roads lead to Santiago” is a common phrase heard along the centuries-old pilgrimage to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. The cathedral is where many believe that the remains of St. James are buried. Nearly half a million people from across the globe annually make the journey. It is said that the pilgrimage officially begins the moment the pilgrims leave their homes; however, anyone seeking to receive a Compostela — an official document certifying the completion of the Camino — must walk at least 60 miles before reaching the cathedral. Once there, a special pilgrim’s Mass takes place, blessing those who have made the arduous journey, as the world’s largest Botafumeiro, or censer, swings across the nave of the cathedral. Like most spiritual journeys, the reasons people walk the Camino are as varied as the routes to Santiago. In the summer of 2024, a group of 22 University of San Diego alumni and friends traveled the Portuguese way in honor of the university’s 75th anniversary. Twenty-two souls and 22 journeys … all seeking something different, something unique that would light the way forward in their lives. As they quickly learned, “The Camino Provides” is not only a catchy phrase exchanged by those who have made the journey many times over but a reality, a guiding principle and a leap of faith they came to understand as the group reached their final destination.

Day One The Traveling Toreros begin their journey in the Portuguese town of Vigo.

Everlasting Love Karen and Tom Mulvaney ’77 (JD) celebrated 44 years of marriage on the Camino, inspiring all who witnessed their love. Tom, a successful attorney, businessman and USD board chair, and his wife Karen embraced the journey with enthusiasm and grace. They connected deeply with each group member, savoring every moment. For the Mulvaneys, the experience was life-changing. For others, their companionship was refreshing, always accompanied by smiles despite the miles. The couple continues walking the buen camino of life, embodying generosity and giving back far more than they’ve received. Their love and kindness left a lasting impact on all.

32 | University of San Diego Magazine