On the Way!
Following Jesus…
When I was sixteen, I got to know Jesus by reading his biography, the first four books of the New Testament. I often wondered how it would have been to have actually walked with Jesus, heard his words and been part of his encounters with people. It would have certainly been life changing. A bit of that I was able to experience these past years on the Snail-Trail – my deliberate way of traveling at a "snail's pace" – walking long pilgrimages across Europe…
- Snail-Trail 1.0 (2023): A 3,268-kilometer-long pilgrimage route, The Way of St. James, from Moosburg to Cape Finisterre in Spain (near Santiago de Compostela).
- Snail-Trail 2.0 (2024): A trek from Germany to Greece, covering approximately 2,500 kilometers. Along the way, I traversed the Balkans and encountered challenges such as wild dogs, dilapidated wooden bridges, and abandoned villages.
- Snail-Trail 3.0 (2025): Last year's foot journey which led me 2,675 kilometers from Tallinn (Estonia) back to my home near Landshut. In total, it consisted of 85 stages with an average distance of 31 kilometers.
Each journey was an extraordinary experience. Even though I could not see Jesus, I felt his presence, which gave me courage and strength for the long road ahead. Although I did not hear his voice audibly, I perceived profound truths about life through the experiences I encountered along the way. Through conversations and prayers with people I met on the path, I was privileged to witness how Jesus encounters others.
Snail-Trail 4.0…
Walking with Jesus does not end with reaching a certain destination, fulfilling a specific task, or reaching retirement age. The call to follow Jesus remains. The journey continues… and for me, too, this year on the Snail-Trail. This time, I set out on June 15th from Inverness, Scotland. I will hike through Scotland and Ireland, along the coasts of Wales and Southern England, through Belgium and Luxembourg, crossing then a small strip of France on my way to Southern Germany. I expect to arrive back home the last week of September… 102 days, 86 stages, and 2,650 kilometers – not counting sea miles. I am now nearly 70 years old, and yes, I can certainly feel my bones and muscles. Yet I walk this path in confidence that God is guiding and strengthening me. Step by step. In the truest sense of the word.
X Marks the Spot…
Together, the four Snail-Trails form an "X" across the greater part of Europe — the sign of the Cross of Jesus Christ. When Jesus, with his final breath, cried out from the cross, "It is finished!", he was thinking of us here in Europe as well. He took upon himself all the suffering and pain of history – with all its bitter injustices and everything that destroys us as human beings and separates us from God. Yet Jesus' empty tomb bears witness that death does not have the final word. There will always be a tomorrow and a new beginning. We have a well-founded hope in Christ. May this grace from heaven touch the soul of Europe! That is what I will be praying for, as I walk from one country to the next.
Together…
Prayer: I see the Snail-Trails not merely as personal paths of faith, but also as an invitation for others to share in them. Through the postings on my blog, I share my impressions, thoughts, and experiences. I would then greatly appreciate your prayer support – for the encounters I have along the way, for protection on the Snail-Trail, and that many hearts would connect with God's heart.
Project: The Snail-Trail is also a walkathon. If you would like to be a part of what the Assemblies of God is doing in this region of Europe (church planting, children/youth/student outreaches…), please click on this link to make an online donation. It could be a one-time gift or per-kilometer-walked-pledge:
Please click on the option "88 Snail Trail". Many thanks!
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Blog
24.
Jun
Bridge of Orchy - Crianlarich
Photo 1: "Day 3 on the West Highland Way"
Today was my tenth day all together on Snail-Trail 4.0, an important milestone. After ten days on the trail one's body adjusts to the strenguous routine and accepts its fate to this new norm. It does not make it any easier, it just more tolerable.
Photo 2: "Sheep on the path"
My expierence on the trail so far reflects the parable of the sower. I met a secularist from the USA who was interested in my walk across Scotland, but did not care much to know about my walk with Jesus. A bit later I spoke with a young man from Holland, Viktor, who is studying in Dublin to be an ER Doctor. He is from a Catholic background and looks to Jesus for help with his medical studies and the treatment of patients. After our talk and prayer he said: "You made my day." Shortly before my destination I talked with two young girls from Wales who were making camp and the prayed for them. They were amazed that a complete stranger would give them perspectives for their lives. Not more than 10 minutes later a young Scottish girl caught up to me on the path into town. Her response to those "perspectives for life" was: "That's not my faith."
Photo 3: Today was the first day on Snail-Trail 4.0 that I needed to put on sunglasses. I wanted to document the moment with this photo...
Photo 4: There was only one outdoor store on the entire West Highland Way between Fort Williams and Glasgow. It was a small shop in a small village, but they had exactly the kind of walking sticks that I was looking for.
Photo 5: "A sunny day today for Willy in the Highlands...
Today was my tenth day all together on Snail-Trail 4.0, an important milestone. After ten days on the trail one's body adjusts to the strenguous routine and accepts its fate to this new norm. It does not make it any easier, it just more tolerable.
Photo 2: "Sheep on the path"
My expierence on the trail so far reflects the parable of the sower. I met a secularist from the USA who was interested in my walk across Scotland, but did not care much to know about my walk with Jesus. A bit later I spoke with a young man from Holland, Viktor, who is studying in Dublin to be an ER Doctor. He is from a Catholic background and looks to Jesus for help with his medical studies and the treatment of patients. After our talk and prayer he said: "You made my day." Shortly before my destination I talked with two young girls from Wales who were making camp and the prayed for them. They were amazed that a complete stranger would give them perspectives for their lives. Not more than 10 minutes later a young Scottish girl caught up to me on the path into town. Her response to those "perspectives for life" was: "That's not my faith."
Photo 3: Today was the first day on Snail-Trail 4.0 that I needed to put on sunglasses. I wanted to document the moment with this photo...
Photo 4: There was only one outdoor store on the entire West Highland Way between Fort Williams and Glasgow. It was a small shop in a small village, but they had exactly the kind of walking sticks that I was looking for.
Photo 5: "A sunny day today for Willy in the Highlands...
23.
Jun
Kinlochleven - Bridge of Orchy
Photo 1: "Bridge of Orchy"
This was my destination for today. It would take me 30 km and 1224 altimeters to get there... and I needed to arrive by 7.00 pm in order to get dinner at the bunkbed hostel. It is good that I did the extra climb yesterday.
While I was getting my backpack packed, a solo hiker from Estonia, Evi, came by the corner of the mountain where I had stayed the night. She had campen as well a bit further ahead. She was in her early 50's and was slowly making her way from a secular world view to realizing there is a God who created the beauty she was seeing on the path. We talked and prayed. It was a God moment. Tears came to her eyes. She gave me a hug and said that this was the highlight of her trip. Estonians are quite reserved, I learned on my trip to through the Baltics last year. So this was quite a statement. If was not me, but God's presence that touched her heart.
Photo 2: "The Devil's Staircase"
Once I got up to the top of the mountain this morning, I started going down a series of zigzag switchbacks on an old military road know as "The Devil's Staircase". The path is about 2.4 km long and reaches an altitude of 550 meters at the summit, making it the highest point of elevation on the West Highland Way. I could see that people were struggling to make the climb. I began to tell passersby that when the walk the Devil's Staircase with Jesus, it becomes a Stairway to Heaven. I got a lot of laughs and positive reactions to the comment. It also led to a number of meaningful conversations. It took me forever to get down the hill because of all talks I had along the way. The clock was ticking...
Photo 3: "The mountain Buachaille Etive Mòr"
This is the nountain where the opening scene of the James Bond movie "Skyfall" was taken.
Photo 4: "Radek from Poland"
I greet just aboit everyone who passes by me on the path. I was very surprised when I greeted Radek that he adked: "Are you the guy who walked across Poland last year?" I had met a friend of his several days earlier at a hostel. He called Radek and said that this American will be walking in his direction who walked through Poland last year and is now walking from Scotland to Germany. "He knows a few Polish words," his friend said. "If you see him, talk to him. He is really interesting." I said, "That sounds like me!" We went and sat on a rock, and Radek told me his story. He had been raised a Catholic, but it was his parents belief. He started on a journey to find out what he really believed. He went from athiestic thought to agnostism to realising that there must be a God. Now he heard Jesus was knocking on the door of his heart and was not sure how to answer. I explained how he could say yes to Jesus and start his walk with him, and then led him in prayer to make that first step. There were some real long and difficult hikes through Poland last year. Every step was worth it if it helped Radek to make that faith connection to Jesus.
Photo 5: "On the way to the bridge of Orchy"
It was now foot race to make it to the hostel in time for dinner. I arrived exactly at 7.00 pm. I was given a seat at a table with two women from New Zealand and one from Ireland. I was hot, sweaty, thirsty and hungry... and very happy.
This was my destination for today. It would take me 30 km and 1224 altimeters to get there... and I needed to arrive by 7.00 pm in order to get dinner at the bunkbed hostel. It is good that I did the extra climb yesterday.
While I was getting my backpack packed, a solo hiker from Estonia, Evi, came by the corner of the mountain where I had stayed the night. She had campen as well a bit further ahead. She was in her early 50's and was slowly making her way from a secular world view to realizing there is a God who created the beauty she was seeing on the path. We talked and prayed. It was a God moment. Tears came to her eyes. She gave me a hug and said that this was the highlight of her trip. Estonians are quite reserved, I learned on my trip to through the Baltics last year. So this was quite a statement. If was not me, but God's presence that touched her heart.
Photo 2: "The Devil's Staircase"
Once I got up to the top of the mountain this morning, I started going down a series of zigzag switchbacks on an old military road know as "The Devil's Staircase". The path is about 2.4 km long and reaches an altitude of 550 meters at the summit, making it the highest point of elevation on the West Highland Way. I could see that people were struggling to make the climb. I began to tell passersby that when the walk the Devil's Staircase with Jesus, it becomes a Stairway to Heaven. I got a lot of laughs and positive reactions to the comment. It also led to a number of meaningful conversations. It took me forever to get down the hill because of all talks I had along the way. The clock was ticking...
Photo 3: "The mountain Buachaille Etive Mòr"
This is the nountain where the opening scene of the James Bond movie "Skyfall" was taken.
Photo 4: "Radek from Poland"
I greet just aboit everyone who passes by me on the path. I was very surprised when I greeted Radek that he adked: "Are you the guy who walked across Poland last year?" I had met a friend of his several days earlier at a hostel. He called Radek and said that this American will be walking in his direction who walked through Poland last year and is now walking from Scotland to Germany. "He knows a few Polish words," his friend said. "If you see him, talk to him. He is really interesting." I said, "That sounds like me!" We went and sat on a rock, and Radek told me his story. He had been raised a Catholic, but it was his parents belief. He started on a journey to find out what he really believed. He went from athiestic thought to agnostism to realising that there must be a God. Now he heard Jesus was knocking on the door of his heart and was not sure how to answer. I explained how he could say yes to Jesus and start his walk with him, and then led him in prayer to make that first step. There were some real long and difficult hikes through Poland last year. Every step was worth it if it helped Radek to make that faith connection to Jesus.
Photo 5: "On the way to the bridge of Orchy"
It was now foot race to make it to the hostel in time for dinner. I arrived exactly at 7.00 pm. I was given a seat at a table with two women from New Zealand and one from Ireland. I was hot, sweaty, thirsty and hungry... and very happy.
22.
Jun
Fort Williams - Kinlochleven
Photo 1: "The West Highland Way"
This is a very beautiful and popular long distance hiking path through Scotland from Fort Williams to Glasgow, but it is not very easy. I will average walking 28,5 km with 927 altimeters the next six days.
Photo 2: "Ahmad from Saudi Arabia"
Most people walk the West Highland way from Glasgow to Fort Williams. So all week I will have people coming from the other way in my direction. This presents many opportunities to speak and pray with people and to share my story. Among the talks I had today, there were three special encountets, with Luzia from Germany, a group of young people from France and Ahmad from Saudi Arbabia pictured here.
Photo 3: "Broken walking stick"
I decided to take my wife's walking sticks on this trip, because they were easier to pack away for the flight to Scotland and for the upcoming three ferry trips from Scotland to Ireland, from Ireland to Wales and from England to France. Before leaving for Scotland, I must have damaged the one pole when I changed the tips. It broke right at that point without any other evident cause. Good walking sticks on a foot journey like this are essiential. They help carry the load of a backpack, relieve the pressure on your foot and leg joints while walking and are like having two extra legs to push you uphill or to brace your step going downhill. Fortunately I was able to plug the broken point with a Rubber tip as a temporary solution until I would find new walking sticks.
Photo 4: "Two sheep"
The later in the day I walked, the less traffic came my way. I enjoyed this these late afternoon hours to sing my pilgrim song, pray for Scotland and to behold the beauty of God's creation.
Photo 5: "Wild camp"
Since the weather was good this evening, I decided to go up one more hill. It was a high one and just about doubled the altimeters for the day, but would shave off 4 km and several hundred kolometers for tomorrow's walk. I had food and water with me and slept very well on the side of the mountain.
This is a very beautiful and popular long distance hiking path through Scotland from Fort Williams to Glasgow, but it is not very easy. I will average walking 28,5 km with 927 altimeters the next six days.
Photo 2: "Ahmad from Saudi Arabia"
Most people walk the West Highland way from Glasgow to Fort Williams. So all week I will have people coming from the other way in my direction. This presents many opportunities to speak and pray with people and to share my story. Among the talks I had today, there were three special encountets, with Luzia from Germany, a group of young people from France and Ahmad from Saudi Arbabia pictured here.
Photo 3: "Broken walking stick"
I decided to take my wife's walking sticks on this trip, because they were easier to pack away for the flight to Scotland and for the upcoming three ferry trips from Scotland to Ireland, from Ireland to Wales and from England to France. Before leaving for Scotland, I must have damaged the one pole when I changed the tips. It broke right at that point without any other evident cause. Good walking sticks on a foot journey like this are essiential. They help carry the load of a backpack, relieve the pressure on your foot and leg joints while walking and are like having two extra legs to push you uphill or to brace your step going downhill. Fortunately I was able to plug the broken point with a Rubber tip as a temporary solution until I would find new walking sticks.
Photo 4: "Two sheep"
The later in the day I walked, the less traffic came my way. I enjoyed this these late afternoon hours to sing my pilgrim song, pray for Scotland and to behold the beauty of God's creation.
Photo 5: "Wild camp"
Since the weather was good this evening, I decided to go up one more hill. It was a high one and just about doubled the altimeters for the day, but would shave off 4 km and several hundred kolometers for tomorrow's walk. I had food and water with me and slept very well on the side of the mountain.
21.
Jun
Fort Williams
Photo 1: "Willy's first day of rest"
I always look forward to Sundays. It is a day to celebrate having made it through the week, to give thanks to God for his sustaining grace... and to not walk with a heavy backpack!
Photo 2: If possible, I really like going to a church service and connecting with believers from the community where I might be staying. Just a few hundred meters down from the hostel where I stayed the weekend, was the Baptist Church from Fort Williams. In the photo I am standing with Pastor Jonathan. A visiting pastor from Inverness gave a very insightful message, and, even though the worship team was just one man, the music was from the heart and uplifting.
Photo 3: I had many meaniful encounters with young people at the hostel. One was with Cameron from England who is following after Jesus and wanting to do his will. In my prayer for him, Cameron said I spoke to things in his life that I did not know about, giving confirmation and encouragement.
Photo 4: Another meaniful encounter was this morning with Christine und Sebastian from Germany. We met each other while brushing teeth last night and shared the same room together... along with three others. I am not sure how we got on the subject, but I mentioned how the Hillsong song "Highlands - Song of Ascent" meant a lot to me thinking about starting to walk the West Highland Way tomorrow. Sebastian found the song right away on YouTube and played it. Christine and I both had tears in our eyes. A very moving and important conversation and prayer followed. It was a God moment and a great start for the Sunday. Here is a link If you would like to hear the song: https://youtu.be/3ZFkFZAabfw?si=McuOTjpCw2blkStq
Photo 5: "The flag of Scotland"
The X-shaped cross represents the diagonal cross on which St. Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, was martyred in 69 AD. It is also the shape of the cross that the four Snail-Trails make through Europe.
I always look forward to Sundays. It is a day to celebrate having made it through the week, to give thanks to God for his sustaining grace... and to not walk with a heavy backpack!
Photo 2: If possible, I really like going to a church service and connecting with believers from the community where I might be staying. Just a few hundred meters down from the hostel where I stayed the weekend, was the Baptist Church from Fort Williams. In the photo I am standing with Pastor Jonathan. A visiting pastor from Inverness gave a very insightful message, and, even though the worship team was just one man, the music was from the heart and uplifting.
Photo 3: I had many meaniful encounters with young people at the hostel. One was with Cameron from England who is following after Jesus and wanting to do his will. In my prayer for him, Cameron said I spoke to things in his life that I did not know about, giving confirmation and encouragement.
Photo 4: Another meaniful encounter was this morning with Christine und Sebastian from Germany. We met each other while brushing teeth last night and shared the same room together... along with three others. I am not sure how we got on the subject, but I mentioned how the Hillsong song "Highlands - Song of Ascent" meant a lot to me thinking about starting to walk the West Highland Way tomorrow. Sebastian found the song right away on YouTube and played it. Christine and I both had tears in our eyes. A very moving and important conversation and prayer followed. It was a God moment and a great start for the Sunday. Here is a link If you would like to hear the song: https://youtu.be/3ZFkFZAabfw?si=McuOTjpCw2blkStq
Photo 5: "The flag of Scotland"
The X-shaped cross represents the diagonal cross on which St. Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, was martyred in 69 AD. It is also the shape of the cross that the four Snail-Trails make through Europe.
20.
Jun
Gairlochy Locks - Fort Williams
Photo 1: "Phil"
Yesterday evening as I was approaching Gairlochy Locks, I saw Phil doing yard work near the road. That is business. We greeted each other and we started to talk about my trip. He asked me if there was anything he could do to help me on my way. I said that I was planning on camping that night and had what I needed. He then asked me if I would like some watermelon. I knew God was speaking to me then... I love watermelon! He offered to take me to his house just down the road a bit to get some. I accepted. The evening was coming quickly, so I asked if it might be a consideration for me to put my tent up on his property. After a short Pause, he asked if I would rather sleep on an extra bed that he had at the house and whether I like trout. He was a fisherman and had some trout he could make for dinner. I love trout. To make it short, by the time I got cleaned up and changed my clothes, one if the best trout dinners that I ever had was ready... just as the World Cup game between the USA and Australia was beginning. I did not think I would have a chance to see any of World Cup games while walking Snail-Trail 4.0... and I had water melon before the dinner and this morning with breakfast... and it rained all night, and I slept well with a roof over my head. Phil, if you are reading this, you totally blessed me! Thanks so much! Those who might be looking at this blog, if you would, ask God to bless Phil's health (he is dealing with some issues), his son and his yard business.
Photo 2: Willy wanting to take a swim in Lochy Loch.
Photo 3: The last lock on the Great Glen Way.
I had arrived at Fort Williams. After five days of walking 133 kilometers with 4,300 altimeters, I am now one third of the way through Scotland. I have had conversations and been able to pray with many people about walking with Jesus and finding that God connection. It had been a good first week. Thanks for praying for me!
Photo 4: For most people the The Great Glen Way starts here in Fort Williams. I had been wondering how it would be to walk in the opposite direction. It was great!
Photo 5: An old ship wreck on the beach at Fort Williams. In the background you can see the highlands lifting up over the horizon. On Monday the journey begins to go through the Highlands towards Glasgow.
Yesterday evening as I was approaching Gairlochy Locks, I saw Phil doing yard work near the road. That is business. We greeted each other and we started to talk about my trip. He asked me if there was anything he could do to help me on my way. I said that I was planning on camping that night and had what I needed. He then asked me if I would like some watermelon. I knew God was speaking to me then... I love watermelon! He offered to take me to his house just down the road a bit to get some. I accepted. The evening was coming quickly, so I asked if it might be a consideration for me to put my tent up on his property. After a short Pause, he asked if I would rather sleep on an extra bed that he had at the house and whether I like trout. He was a fisherman and had some trout he could make for dinner. I love trout. To make it short, by the time I got cleaned up and changed my clothes, one if the best trout dinners that I ever had was ready... just as the World Cup game between the USA and Australia was beginning. I did not think I would have a chance to see any of World Cup games while walking Snail-Trail 4.0... and I had water melon before the dinner and this morning with breakfast... and it rained all night, and I slept well with a roof over my head. Phil, if you are reading this, you totally blessed me! Thanks so much! Those who might be looking at this blog, if you would, ask God to bless Phil's health (he is dealing with some issues), his son and his yard business.
Photo 2: Willy wanting to take a swim in Lochy Loch.
Photo 3: The last lock on the Great Glen Way.
I had arrived at Fort Williams. After five days of walking 133 kilometers with 4,300 altimeters, I am now one third of the way through Scotland. I have had conversations and been able to pray with many people about walking with Jesus and finding that God connection. It had been a good first week. Thanks for praying for me!
Photo 4: For most people the The Great Glen Way starts here in Fort Williams. I had been wondering how it would be to walk in the opposite direction. It was great!
Photo 5: An old ship wreck on the beach at Fort Williams. In the background you can see the highlands lifting up over the horizon. On Monday the journey begins to go through the Highlands towards Glasgow.
19.
Jun
Leitirfearn - Gairlochy Locks
Photo 1: "Willy's first night in the tent..."
The campground was supposed to have a WC and a shower. That is why I needed the key. There was a WC, but it had been flipped over by the wind and was laying on its backside. There were no water facilities... and my water filter was not working. I needed to ration my water. There was also a group of children that were on a canu trip and stayed the night as well. I had an opportunity to share some of my pilgrim stories with a few of the supervisors and one little girl who had hurt her foot while the others were out and about playing games. It reminded me of my Royal Rangers days.
It rained all night and well into the morning, so I got a late start. Just as I was getting ready to leave the camping place, two older ladies from New Zealand were coming up the path. I greeted them both and asked how they were doing. The one, Betty, responded that she was in bereavement. Just two days ago while on her walking trip, she received the tragic news that her 52 year old niece had unexpectedly and suddenly died while on her honey moon. I shared some words of comfort and the hope that we have in Jesus who overcame death and the grave. As I prayed for Betty and her companion, I sensed a very strong presence of the Lord. I think as well that they felt a touch from heaven. They were very grateful for the prayer and encounter... and gave me some water for my start in the day.
Photo 2: A lot of Rhododendrons are still in blume in Scotland. I love Rhododendrons!
After about two hours I came to a Lock would I could actually use my key to go into a toilet facility and get some water. When I came out there was a group of young people also wanting to use the facilities. We got talking about my trip. Eventually there was just one young man left, Louis, after the others continued on to a nearby Café. He wanted to know what inspired me to do this trip. I knew then that God wanted me to speak to him about spiritual truths. Louis grew up in a cultural Christian environment, but was now leaning more towards Islam. His main problem was understanding the Christian teaching of the trinity. I gave him a five minute crash course of explaining the one God who reveals himself in plurity by way of Genesis 1:1-3. He responded that the Koran also refers to Allah saying "we" when it came to the creation. "See", I said, "God in plurality who is one God." The conclusion is, that Jesus is God, the Son. Hopefully these thoughts will lead to more spiritual understanding.
Photo 3: A lot of rain water running down from the high places...
Photo 4: "The Great Glen Way - Day 4"
Not far from this corner on the path I ran into a true Scotsman, Rob MacGregor. He told me that his name was outlawed and banished in Scotland for about 70 years, because his clan was at odds with and fought against the Britts. Rob also said in our conversation that he believed there was something out there greater than humanity, but just was not sure what. I prayed for him that he would come to know who this God is, who created the beauty of creation that we were looking at.
Photo 5: "Safe Bear"
I am glad that I do not need to be on the lookout for bears on this trip!
The campground was supposed to have a WC and a shower. That is why I needed the key. There was a WC, but it had been flipped over by the wind and was laying on its backside. There were no water facilities... and my water filter was not working. I needed to ration my water. There was also a group of children that were on a canu trip and stayed the night as well. I had an opportunity to share some of my pilgrim stories with a few of the supervisors and one little girl who had hurt her foot while the others were out and about playing games. It reminded me of my Royal Rangers days.
It rained all night and well into the morning, so I got a late start. Just as I was getting ready to leave the camping place, two older ladies from New Zealand were coming up the path. I greeted them both and asked how they were doing. The one, Betty, responded that she was in bereavement. Just two days ago while on her walking trip, she received the tragic news that her 52 year old niece had unexpectedly and suddenly died while on her honey moon. I shared some words of comfort and the hope that we have in Jesus who overcame death and the grave. As I prayed for Betty and her companion, I sensed a very strong presence of the Lord. I think as well that they felt a touch from heaven. They were very grateful for the prayer and encounter... and gave me some water for my start in the day.
Photo 2: A lot of Rhododendrons are still in blume in Scotland. I love Rhododendrons!
After about two hours I came to a Lock would I could actually use my key to go into a toilet facility and get some water. When I came out there was a group of young people also wanting to use the facilities. We got talking about my trip. Eventually there was just one young man left, Louis, after the others continued on to a nearby Café. He wanted to know what inspired me to do this trip. I knew then that God wanted me to speak to him about spiritual truths. Louis grew up in a cultural Christian environment, but was now leaning more towards Islam. His main problem was understanding the Christian teaching of the trinity. I gave him a five minute crash course of explaining the one God who reveals himself in plurity by way of Genesis 1:1-3. He responded that the Koran also refers to Allah saying "we" when it came to the creation. "See", I said, "God in plurality who is one God." The conclusion is, that Jesus is God, the Son. Hopefully these thoughts will lead to more spiritual understanding.
Photo 3: A lot of rain water running down from the high places...
Photo 4: "The Great Glen Way - Day 4"
Not far from this corner on the path I ran into a true Scotsman, Rob MacGregor. He told me that his name was outlawed and banished in Scotland for about 70 years, because his clan was at odds with and fought against the Britts. Rob also said in our conversation that he believed there was something out there greater than humanity, but just was not sure what. I prayed for him that he would come to know who this God is, who created the beauty of creation that we were looking at.
Photo 5: "Safe Bear"
I am glad that I do not need to be on the lookout for bears on this trip!
18.
Jun
Altsigh - Leitirfearn
Photo 1: "The Great Glen Way - Day 3"
This would be the second most difficult hike this week, 32 km and 1100 altimeters, but it was a good one. I had a good breakfast at the hostel. The evening before I got to know two volunteer staff members a bit, Sebastian from Columbia and Katja from Russia, very nice and helpful young people. After breakfast I had one final talk with them and prayed a blessing for their journey through life. It was a special moment.
Photo 2: "The High Path"
It rained off and on throughout the day, but mostly a spray rain. The weather has been very similar to that which I had at the start of my walk last year in Estonia. I actually prefer walking in weather like this than the extreme heat I had on Snail-Trail 2.0 through the Balkans.
At one point today I needed to make a decision. Originally I planned to take the low route which would have been much easier. But at the juncture I decided to take the high route. I was feeling good and it was not raining at this time. I was glad I did. It was the most beautiful part of the whole Great Glen Way.
Photo 3: "Evi"
I was wondering how it would be walking the Great Glen Way in the opposite direction that most people go. Indeed I had many people coming towards me. Each day I have had numerous short talks with people, often I could share a part of my story, and occassionly there would be a special encounter. The encounter with Evi was one of those special ones. She is a delightful young woman, 24 years old, who is seeking God's will for her life. She is exactly the age I was when I first came to Germany to find my way through life and ministry there. Evi has a heart for Muslims, has already learned some Arabic and has had some cross cultural experience in an Islamic country. I was able to encourage her and perhaps give some helpful insights for her journey ahead. We prayed for each other... on the high path. Almost missed it. Another special God moment. Pray for Evi and that the Good Shepherd would confirm the steps that she is to take.
Photo 4: "The Moorings"
In Fort Augustus I wanted to eat a good lunch and buy provisions for the next two days. I would not see another grocery store until the end of The Great Glen Way at Fort Williams on Saturday. I asked the clerk at the grocery store where I might find a good place to eat. He suggested "The Moorings". I went. The owner is a Turk from Bulgarian descent. We started talking. When I said in Turkish that my name is Steven, his eyes light up. His name is also Steven. When I said that I was a pastor, his eyes light up even more. He is a Christian. There is a large group of Bulgarian Turks who have placed their trust in Jesus. Steven and I are brothers in Christ. I prayed for him, his family and their restaurant business. If you like, please pray for him as well. If you ever go to Fort Augustus in Scotland, be sure to visit "The Moorings". The food is great!
Photo 5: The locks at Fort Augustus
This would be the second most difficult hike this week, 32 km and 1100 altimeters, but it was a good one. I had a good breakfast at the hostel. The evening before I got to know two volunteer staff members a bit, Sebastian from Columbia and Katja from Russia, very nice and helpful young people. After breakfast I had one final talk with them and prayed a blessing for their journey through life. It was a special moment.
Photo 2: "The High Path"
It rained off and on throughout the day, but mostly a spray rain. The weather has been very similar to that which I had at the start of my walk last year in Estonia. I actually prefer walking in weather like this than the extreme heat I had on Snail-Trail 2.0 through the Balkans.
At one point today I needed to make a decision. Originally I planned to take the low route which would have been much easier. But at the juncture I decided to take the high route. I was feeling good and it was not raining at this time. I was glad I did. It was the most beautiful part of the whole Great Glen Way.
Photo 3: "Evi"
I was wondering how it would be walking the Great Glen Way in the opposite direction that most people go. Indeed I had many people coming towards me. Each day I have had numerous short talks with people, often I could share a part of my story, and occassionly there would be a special encounter. The encounter with Evi was one of those special ones. She is a delightful young woman, 24 years old, who is seeking God's will for her life. She is exactly the age I was when I first came to Germany to find my way through life and ministry there. Evi has a heart for Muslims, has already learned some Arabic and has had some cross cultural experience in an Islamic country. I was able to encourage her and perhaps give some helpful insights for her journey ahead. We prayed for each other... on the high path. Almost missed it. Another special God moment. Pray for Evi and that the Good Shepherd would confirm the steps that she is to take.
Photo 4: "The Moorings"
In Fort Augustus I wanted to eat a good lunch and buy provisions for the next two days. I would not see another grocery store until the end of The Great Glen Way at Fort Williams on Saturday. I asked the clerk at the grocery store where I might find a good place to eat. He suggested "The Moorings". I went. The owner is a Turk from Bulgarian descent. We started talking. When I said in Turkish that my name is Steven, his eyes light up. His name is also Steven. When I said that I was a pastor, his eyes light up even more. He is a Christian. There is a large group of Bulgarian Turks who have placed their trust in Jesus. Steven and I are brothers in Christ. I prayed for him, his family and their restaurant business. If you like, please pray for him as well. If you ever go to Fort Augustus in Scotland, be sure to visit "The Moorings". The food is great!
Photo 5: The locks at Fort Augustus
17.
Jun
Drummadrochit - Altsigh
Photo 1: "Willy's first castle"
The Urquhart Castle a bit closer than yestetday
Photo 2: "Loch Ness Backpackers Hostel"
I stayed the night at this hostel, and so glad I did, because it rained all night and right up to the time I needed to leave for today's stage. Two other men were in the room with me. One from England snorred quite a bit, so I was glad to have ear plugs with me. The other was Bernd from Germany, a man approaching the more seasoned phase of life. He was able to get a leave from work for a number of months to ride his bike through a number of countries in Europe... and to think. We related well and shared life experience stories. Before we parted ways this morning, I offered to pray for Bernd's continued journey now and through life. He said he felt goose pimples while I prayed. It was Jesus letting him know that he was there.
Photo 3: "A real Scotsman"
Not far from the Urquhart Castle I saw this Scotsman in traditional costum and asked if I could take a picture of us both together. I told him that we might be related as my last name Dunn comes from either Scotland or Ireland.
Not far from this corner was a B&B where Astrid and I had stayed nine years ago. I remember the hosts telling me that there was a shortcut from their place, an unmarked path, from their place, up the hill and to the official path of The Great Glen Way. I decided to see if they were there to ask about the shortcut. It would save me from needing to go back into town before heading up the hill. They were at home, still in business, but had a "For Sale" sign in front on their home. Because of health concerns they were needing to make some difficult changes. When I told the wife that I was a pastor, she recalled that Astrid and I had visited them a number of years earlier. I think it was the prayer if blessing back then which created the memory. I shared some words of encouragement and offered to pray for their next phase of life. It was a God appointment.
Photo 4: "The Great Glen Way - Day 2"
Photo 5: "Rainbow on Loch Ness"
The rainbow is a sign from heaven that God keeps his promise. Under "Story" on this webpage, you can read about the promise God gave me through a snail struggling to make its way through a crushed stone path. That experience led to the name Snail-Trail for these long foot journeys. Whenever I see a snail carrying its shell, I remember that promise.
The Urquhart Castle a bit closer than yestetday
Photo 2: "Loch Ness Backpackers Hostel"
I stayed the night at this hostel, and so glad I did, because it rained all night and right up to the time I needed to leave for today's stage. Two other men were in the room with me. One from England snorred quite a bit, so I was glad to have ear plugs with me. The other was Bernd from Germany, a man approaching the more seasoned phase of life. He was able to get a leave from work for a number of months to ride his bike through a number of countries in Europe... and to think. We related well and shared life experience stories. Before we parted ways this morning, I offered to pray for Bernd's continued journey now and through life. He said he felt goose pimples while I prayed. It was Jesus letting him know that he was there.
Photo 3: "A real Scotsman"
Not far from the Urquhart Castle I saw this Scotsman in traditional costum and asked if I could take a picture of us both together. I told him that we might be related as my last name Dunn comes from either Scotland or Ireland.
Not far from this corner was a B&B where Astrid and I had stayed nine years ago. I remember the hosts telling me that there was a shortcut from their place, an unmarked path, from their place, up the hill and to the official path of The Great Glen Way. I decided to see if they were there to ask about the shortcut. It would save me from needing to go back into town before heading up the hill. They were at home, still in business, but had a "For Sale" sign in front on their home. Because of health concerns they were needing to make some difficult changes. When I told the wife that I was a pastor, she recalled that Astrid and I had visited them a number of years earlier. I think it was the prayer if blessing back then which created the memory. I shared some words of encouragement and offered to pray for their next phase of life. It was a God appointment.
Photo 4: "The Great Glen Way - Day 2"
Photo 5: "Rainbow on Loch Ness"
The rainbow is a sign from heaven that God keeps his promise. Under "Story" on this webpage, you can read about the promise God gave me through a snail struggling to make its way through a crushed stone path. That experience led to the name Snail-Trail for these long foot journeys. Whenever I see a snail carrying its shell, I remember that promise.
16.
Jun
Inverness - Drummadrochit
Photo 1: "The Great Glen Way"
Today the real journey begins, one step after the other. I will be following these signs for "The Great Glen Way". This first hike will be one of the two most difficult ones this week, almost 33 km and 1080 altimeters.
Photo 2: "Willy taking a break..."
Astrid Hattenkofer leads our children’s ministry at the Moosburg Church. She asked me to take Willy with me, a little blue whale stuffed animal, and to post a picture now and then with Willy for children to become intersted in the journey of Snail-Trail 4.0. So I am now walking with Jesus and Willy!
Photo 3: "The Path"
I love paths like this with an open gate, an invitation to walk in and discover what is beyond. In 2017 my wife Astrid and I walked this path going the normal direction from Fort Williams to Inverness. It was more the tourist option with Bed & Breakfasts booked along the way and a baggage transport, so all we needed to carry on the walks were a light backpack for the day. I loved the experience of walking each day somewhere where I never had been and seeing the beauty of God's creation in what was for me an unknown corner of the world. It was on this trip that I first heard about "The Way of Saint James". I also would offer to pray a prayer of blessing for many of our hosts at the B&Bs, and we had opportunities to talk with people on the path about God and our walk with Jesus. These were the seeds of what would become the Snail-Trail.
Photo 4: "Loch Ness"
Loch Ness is the largest and most famous lake in the waterway of The Great Glen Way.
Photo 5: "Urquhart Castle in Drumnadrochit"
When I saw the castle, I knew I did not have far to go to the hostel where I would stay the night. I made it without rain, but it would soon be coming. Nothing like a bed after a challenging hike, and good that I would have a roof over my head!
Today the real journey begins, one step after the other. I will be following these signs for "The Great Glen Way". This first hike will be one of the two most difficult ones this week, almost 33 km and 1080 altimeters.
Photo 2: "Willy taking a break..."
Astrid Hattenkofer leads our children’s ministry at the Moosburg Church. She asked me to take Willy with me, a little blue whale stuffed animal, and to post a picture now and then with Willy for children to become intersted in the journey of Snail-Trail 4.0. So I am now walking with Jesus and Willy!
Photo 3: "The Path"
I love paths like this with an open gate, an invitation to walk in and discover what is beyond. In 2017 my wife Astrid and I walked this path going the normal direction from Fort Williams to Inverness. It was more the tourist option with Bed & Breakfasts booked along the way and a baggage transport, so all we needed to carry on the walks were a light backpack for the day. I loved the experience of walking each day somewhere where I never had been and seeing the beauty of God's creation in what was for me an unknown corner of the world. It was on this trip that I first heard about "The Way of Saint James". I also would offer to pray a prayer of blessing for many of our hosts at the B&Bs, and we had opportunities to talk with people on the path about God and our walk with Jesus. These were the seeds of what would become the Snail-Trail.
Photo 4: "Loch Ness"
Loch Ness is the largest and most famous lake in the waterway of The Great Glen Way.
Photo 5: "Urquhart Castle in Drumnadrochit"
When I saw the castle, I knew I did not have far to go to the hostel where I would stay the night. I made it without rain, but it would soon be coming. Nothing like a bed after a challenging hike, and good that I would have a roof over my head!
15.
Jun
Airport - Inverness
Photo 1: "Boots on the ground"... Four months of planning now become reality. With this first step I entered a different world, that of a walker, a pilgrim, a world of simplicity. Many questions and emotions rush through the thought process: Will I make it? How will the weather and walking conditions be? Will I be safe, get hurt, get sick? What might be God's purposes in this trip? Time Will tell, one day after the other...
Photo 2: "The Caledonia Canal"
I will be walking this week along the Great Glen Way which follows a series of locks and lakes to create a waterway through Scotland from Fort Williams in the southwest to Inverness in the northeast. Most people walk from Fort Williams to Inverness, because the more challenging hikes are at the end. I will be going the opposite direction.
Photo 3: "The Key"
I needed to get this key. I will be staying at two wild camping places that supposedly have a WC and water/shower facilities, but one must rent this key. My internet research said that I needed to get to the canal office by 6.00 pm, but the information was not real clear. I made it from the airport to the office at 5.15 pm. A lady had just locked the door, turned on the alarm, and was about to leave. She explained that the canal lock closses at 6.00 pm, but the office at 4.30 pm. She "just happened to be working longer that day." I told her that I needed the key. She was willing to open the office again for me to get the key and said: "I guess it was just meant to be." I said that I had prayed to God that he would help me to get the key today." She said: "I am not a God person... I am a bad person." Her name had Hebrew roots, she said though it was from the Koran. I told her that Jesus came to this world for people like her who needed God's grace and asked whether I could pray for her. I felt God's compassion come into my heart as I said these words: "Just as you were willing to open the office door so I could get the key, so Jesus was willing to come into this world so that your heart could connected to God's heart." I do not know what God did in that moment, but it was a knock from heaven on the door to her heart.
Photo 4: "The City of Inverness"
In the background you can see the Castle of Inverness. Not far from there was the hostel where I would stay the night. There I spoke with a young girl from Canada who said she was an athiest. After our talk she progressed to being an agnostic, not just sure if there was this God. A week earlier she said that she met a young man at another hostel who talked to her about God. "What a coincidence!", she said. I answered: "I think the Creator is wanting to get your attention so that you know that he is there and he wants to tell you, 'Je t'aime beaucoup!'" She spoke fluent French. The radiating smile on her face was priceless.
Photo 5: View from the Inverness Castle
Photo 2: "The Caledonia Canal"
I will be walking this week along the Great Glen Way which follows a series of locks and lakes to create a waterway through Scotland from Fort Williams in the southwest to Inverness in the northeast. Most people walk from Fort Williams to Inverness, because the more challenging hikes are at the end. I will be going the opposite direction.
Photo 3: "The Key"
I needed to get this key. I will be staying at two wild camping places that supposedly have a WC and water/shower facilities, but one must rent this key. My internet research said that I needed to get to the canal office by 6.00 pm, but the information was not real clear. I made it from the airport to the office at 5.15 pm. A lady had just locked the door, turned on the alarm, and was about to leave. She explained that the canal lock closses at 6.00 pm, but the office at 4.30 pm. She "just happened to be working longer that day." I told her that I needed the key. She was willing to open the office again for me to get the key and said: "I guess it was just meant to be." I said that I had prayed to God that he would help me to get the key today." She said: "I am not a God person... I am a bad person." Her name had Hebrew roots, she said though it was from the Koran. I told her that Jesus came to this world for people like her who needed God's grace and asked whether I could pray for her. I felt God's compassion come into my heart as I said these words: "Just as you were willing to open the office door so I could get the key, so Jesus was willing to come into this world so that your heart could connected to God's heart." I do not know what God did in that moment, but it was a knock from heaven on the door to her heart.
Photo 4: "The City of Inverness"
In the background you can see the Castle of Inverness. Not far from there was the hostel where I would stay the night. There I spoke with a young girl from Canada who said she was an athiest. After our talk she progressed to being an agnostic, not just sure if there was this God. A week earlier she said that she met a young man at another hostel who talked to her about God. "What a coincidence!", she said. I answered: "I think the Creator is wanting to get your attention so that you know that he is there and he wants to tell you, 'Je t'aime beaucoup!'" She spoke fluent French. The radiating smile on her face was priceless.
Photo 5: View from the Inverness Castle