Camino pilgrims raise funds for vulnerable children at Christmas

“It is more than just a physical journey; it’s a spiritual adventure that will test, teach, and transform you.”

A Christian charity embraced the spirit of Christmas on the Camino de Santiago trek by fundraising for disadvantaged children around the world.

Last month, seven supporters of World Vision UK – in addition to two guides – raised more than £10,500 to “continue doing the fabulous work it does with children all over the world” on the run up to Christmas.

World Vision is a Christian charity that aims to help vulnerable children by providing access to clean water, healthcare, education, child protection and income generation across almost 100 countries.

Over the past five years alone, the charity claims to have changed the lives of more than 200 million children.

In response to why she felt inspired to walk the French Way of the Camino, World Vision sponsor visits officer, Teresa Churcher, told The Tablet: “When the opportunity arose to undertake the journey as a fundraiser for World Vision UK, it felt like the perfect blend of personal challenge and a chance to make a difference for others.”

Churcher recalled the “stunning contrasts” of “cows herded through sleepy hamlets, the crisp scent of eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls cascading from recent, torrential rains”.

“Walking with World Vision supporters and meeting others from other countries gave us a heart-warming sense of community and shared purpose,” Churcher said. “Every moment reinforced the power of connection and the beauty of human kindness.

“I arrived [in Santiago] feeling revitalised, stronger, and more determined to face life’s challenges. It was deeply rewarding – not only for the friends made and the challenge accomplished but also for the lessons learned along the way.

“It is more than just a physical journey; it’s a spiritual adventure that will test, teach, and transform you.”

World Vision said that they decided to walk the Camino because where pilgrims learn to persevere through hardships, World Vision demonstrates resilience by working in difficult circumstances and persevering until sustainable change is achieved: “Both World Vision and the Camino emphasise connection, perseverance, and faith, that inspires transformation and shared humanity. Both remind us of the power of walking with others toward a greater purpose.”

In addition to the Camino pilgrimage, World Vision also raised funds trekking in Nepal where supporters had the opportunity to see projects that support livelihoods, nutrition, health, and life skills.

Both treks will run again in October and November 2025.

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