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
31.
Jul
Bristol - Bath
Photo 1: "St Peter's Church"
Gutted during the 1940 Bristol Blitz during World War II, this 12th-century shell remains a roofless, open-air memorial set inside Castle Park.
Photo 2: "Blackberries"
I rarely see apples and plums hanging over the road like on previous Snail-Trails, but quite often I see now ripe blackberries. They are a welcome little treat along the way.
Photo 3: "Avon Canal"
A nice part of the hike today was along the Avon Canal. I stopped at this spot for my lunch break. Just before the lunch break I had a brief God-talk with Andrew who was coaching Henry how to fish. Andrew had done some coastal hikes in his younger years with a Christian youth organisation called Challengers. I asked him if he was still walking with Jesus. Things had happened in life that brought distance between him and the Lord. I encouraged him to break through to a renewed God connection and prayed for both him and Henry.
Photo 4: "The Roman City of Bath"
Bath is of course famous for the ancient Roman baths that are well perserved along with other Roman structures and artifacts. As I was going through a park and approaching the city center, a young man called out to me: "Did I not see you yesterday walking through Bristol?" He was a Hindu athiest. I asked him to tell me his story. In the course of our conversation until he had to leave to catch a bus to London, we covered a number of critical questions. I like talking to people with critical questions. It shows they are searching... and perhaps something that is said may become the first seed of faith.
Photo 5: Pulteney Bridge, a stunning 18th-century landmark that crosses the River Avon.
Gutted during the 1940 Bristol Blitz during World War II, this 12th-century shell remains a roofless, open-air memorial set inside Castle Park.
Photo 2: "Blackberries"
I rarely see apples and plums hanging over the road like on previous Snail-Trails, but quite often I see now ripe blackberries. They are a welcome little treat along the way.
Photo 3: "Avon Canal"
A nice part of the hike today was along the Avon Canal. I stopped at this spot for my lunch break. Just before the lunch break I had a brief God-talk with Andrew who was coaching Henry how to fish. Andrew had done some coastal hikes in his younger years with a Christian youth organisation called Challengers. I asked him if he was still walking with Jesus. Things had happened in life that brought distance between him and the Lord. I encouraged him to break through to a renewed God connection and prayed for both him and Henry.
Photo 4: "The Roman City of Bath"
Bath is of course famous for the ancient Roman baths that are well perserved along with other Roman structures and artifacts. As I was going through a park and approaching the city center, a young man called out to me: "Did I not see you yesterday walking through Bristol?" He was a Hindu athiest. I asked him to tell me his story. In the course of our conversation until he had to leave to catch a bus to London, we covered a number of critical questions. I like talking to people with critical questions. It shows they are searching... and perhaps something that is said may become the first seed of faith.
Photo 5: Pulteney Bridge, a stunning 18th-century landmark that crosses the River Avon.
30.
Jul
Caldicot - Bristol
Photo 1: "Small boats and a bridge"
In the background you can see the Prince of Wales Bridge which connects Wales with England. This is an express way bridge, though. I would have to hike another two hours to get to the Severn Bridge where cyclists and pedestrians could cross.
Photo 2: "The Severn Bridge"
Photo 3: Willy was glad to get on the England side of the Severn Bridge, not so much because of its 1.6 km length, but because of the strong cross wind.
Photo 4: A closer look at the newer and longer Prince of Wales Bridge. Not far from here I stopped in Severn at a Christian runned Café called "Just as ypu are Tea Cottage." I did not know this was a Christian Café until I saw Bibles on a counter and heard worship music being played in the background... a nice start to my walk through England.
Photo 5: I shared a room with Jackson at the YMCA hostel im Bristol. He had just arrived from Chicago and was dealing with jetlag. We got things at the grocery store together to make dinner. He is believes in Jesus, but still has many critical questions looking for answers. We had a good and long God-talk, after which I prayed for Jackson's journey through life and walk with Jesus. I think our talk gave him some helpful insights.
In the background you can see the Prince of Wales Bridge which connects Wales with England. This is an express way bridge, though. I would have to hike another two hours to get to the Severn Bridge where cyclists and pedestrians could cross.
Photo 2: "The Severn Bridge"
Photo 3: Willy was glad to get on the England side of the Severn Bridge, not so much because of its 1.6 km length, but because of the strong cross wind.
Photo 4: A closer look at the newer and longer Prince of Wales Bridge. Not far from here I stopped in Severn at a Christian runned Café called "Just as ypu are Tea Cottage." I did not know this was a Christian Café until I saw Bibles on a counter and heard worship music being played in the background... a nice start to my walk through England.
Photo 5: I shared a room with Jackson at the YMCA hostel im Bristol. He had just arrived from Chicago and was dealing with jetlag. We got things at the grocery store together to make dinner. He is believes in Jesus, but still has many critical questions looking for answers. We had a good and long God-talk, after which I prayed for Jackson's journey through life and walk with Jesus. I think our talk gave him some helpful insights.
29.
Jul
Peterstone Wentlooge - Caldicot
Photo 1: "Cow on the flood wall"
The first 7 km went along the flood wall, followed by 14 km through Newport and an industrial area on the coast.
Photo 2: "Jesus in the city"
Right at a busy intersection I saw this aged sticker showing a cross and depicting hope. Life is like that. It is not always a walk through the garden. Sometimes the path in life takes you through heavy traffic with a lot of noise to a zone where you would rather not be. Even there Jesus can be found. Hope will inspire you to continue on. It is important to keep foccused and taking those small steps. Eventually you will get through it.
Photo 3: "Path where there is no path"
Time and again I have walked a path where there was no path to be seen. Walking with Jesus is sometimes like that. This is where faith gives sight and orientation. Keep going, one step after the other.
Photo 4: "Back on the flood wall"
There is a lot of brown grass these days in the UK. I have not had any rain on the path since I arrived in North Ireland on July 4th. It has been good for walking... many of the paths I would not have wanted to do in the rain... but it has been hard on nature. May the rain come... either before I get there or after I haved passed through.
Photo 5: "The Castle in Caldicot"
It was a long walk today, a bit more than 37 km. Near this castle and not far from the path and under some trees, I found a place where I could put my tent up. I slept well and managed to get my tent packed away bfore dog walkers came out.
The first 7 km went along the flood wall, followed by 14 km through Newport and an industrial area on the coast.
Photo 2: "Jesus in the city"
Right at a busy intersection I saw this aged sticker showing a cross and depicting hope. Life is like that. It is not always a walk through the garden. Sometimes the path in life takes you through heavy traffic with a lot of noise to a zone where you would rather not be. Even there Jesus can be found. Hope will inspire you to continue on. It is important to keep foccused and taking those small steps. Eventually you will get through it.
Photo 3: "Path where there is no path"
Time and again I have walked a path where there was no path to be seen. Walking with Jesus is sometimes like that. This is where faith gives sight and orientation. Keep going, one step after the other.
Photo 4: "Back on the flood wall"
There is a lot of brown grass these days in the UK. I have not had any rain on the path since I arrived in North Ireland on July 4th. It has been good for walking... many of the paths I would not have wanted to do in the rain... but it has been hard on nature. May the rain come... either before I get there or after I haved passed through.
Photo 5: "The Castle in Caldicot"
It was a long walk today, a bit more than 37 km. Near this castle and not far from the path and under some trees, I found a place where I could put my tent up. I slept well and managed to get my tent packed away bfore dog walkers came out.
28.
Jul
Barry - Peterstone Wentlooge
Video: "Song of Welsh Revival"
This is an amazing story. Last night I looked up on the internet information about the Ty Coch Campground in Peterstone where I planned to stay this evening. On the webpage it stated that it was very necessary to make an advance reservation. "Oh no", I thought. "I do not have one and there is no other option for a place to stay in the area." It would be 36 km from Barry to the campground, and the next city, Newport, would be another 10+ kilometers. I needed very much a yes answer when I called the campground early this morning. What I got, was a no. I pleaded my case and said that all I need would be 2 m², that I was walking and needed to cover the distance to the campground today and had no other options. Maria was the person I talked to, and she said she would get back to me in a few minutes. After a half hour I sent a WhatsApp with a link to the Snail-Trail webpage to verify my story that I was walking from Scotland to Germany. Shortly thereafter I got a response explaining that some electric work was being done today and that they needed some downtime, but they would do something for me... when did I plan to arrive? A bit later I got a WhatsApp call from Maria asking how it would be if she invited some friends over to hear my story. I could have dinner with them. I certainly agreed to that! It turns out that Maria and her husband Nigel, who own and operate the campground, also lead a house church in their home. They have been active in ministry in Wales for many years. Their good friends and ministry partners for thirty years, Andrew and Deb, came over for the evening.
How can I say this? I was so disappointed that I could not connect with a church anywhere on my way through Wales. Now I was part of an impromptu home meeting. I shared my story of how God enabled me to overcome a speach impediment and healed my soul of the fear of speaking when he filled me with the Holy Spirit. Without that, I never would have become a pastor, never would have come to Europe and certainly would never had walked a Snail-Trail. Singing was a vital part of the Welsh revival a little over a century ago. They shared with me the Welsh Song of Revival, the melody of which comes from the national anthem. Listen to the passion and faith in their singing. I recipocated by singing my pilgrim song and then praying for Wales. Spontaneous worship followed, and then Maria had a prophetic impulse about a blue pilot flame sparking a wildfire of spiritual renewal in Wales. Apparently Evan Roberts, the central figure in the 1904 revival in Wales, had a similar vision at the start of his ministry. May that blue fire of enpowerment from heaven burn again! This was just simply a great way to end my prayer walk through Wales.
Photo 1: "Trees formed by the wind"
In the forefront you see a smaller tree that no longer lives. It had been bent by the force of the wind through the years. Behind it you see a larger tree that is alive which had also been shaped by the wind. I would like to see this as a prophetic picture for Wales... that the winds of the Holy Spirit which had once blown through the country and shaped its spiritual expression of Christianity, will do their redeeming, renewing and enpowering work once again.
Photo 2: It is interesting how God-appointments sometimes just seem to happen. Early in my walk today I saw a man, Gareth, doing partial push-ups on the back of a park bench. Without thinking anything I said that push-ups are good for you and that I did 100 a day in preparation for carrying the backpack on the Snail-Trail. He answered that he had once done 1000 a day, but a serious infection set him back, and he was now trying to slowly build back up. We had a God-talk. After I prayed for him, I encouraged him to get to know Jesus, to go to the source and read his biography - the first four books of the New Testament. He said he had recently been thinking about doing exactly that and was so grateful for the nudge in that direction.
After an apple break, Kevin and David (see photo) came around the corner. They are hiking buddies, and today was their day for a walk. Kevin is a follower of Jesus, but David is not quite their yet. We were going the same direction, so we walked the next few kilometers together. I think God used that encounter to encourage us all in the conversations that we had and the time of prayer before we parted ways... just what I needed before going through a very unpleasant industrial area.
Photo 3: "Part of the journey..."
It was loud, dusty and not very safe. The Wales Coastal Path was blocked at one point and the only option was this. Shortly after I took this picture, the narrow sidewalk ended. I decided to cut through a field to make my way to a residential area and hopefully reconnect to the coastal path. I had to climb over three fences to do so, but I made it.
Photo 4: "Cows grazing in the flood zone"
The beautiful cliffs are gone, but it is still aways nice to walk along the coast. In the background you can already see England.
Photo 5: "The Shepherd's Hut"
Maria and Nigel were so nice to me. They allowed me to stay in their Shepherd's Hut at their campgroup, a wooden wagen remade into a cottage. I slept so well and was so blessed. Thanks Maria and Nigel!!! The day started off with a "No-go" and ended with a warm welcome. This is Jesus. This is God's people. This is another one of those miracles that happen on the Snail-Trail.
This is an amazing story. Last night I looked up on the internet information about the Ty Coch Campground in Peterstone where I planned to stay this evening. On the webpage it stated that it was very necessary to make an advance reservation. "Oh no", I thought. "I do not have one and there is no other option for a place to stay in the area." It would be 36 km from Barry to the campground, and the next city, Newport, would be another 10+ kilometers. I needed very much a yes answer when I called the campground early this morning. What I got, was a no. I pleaded my case and said that all I need would be 2 m², that I was walking and needed to cover the distance to the campground today and had no other options. Maria was the person I talked to, and she said she would get back to me in a few minutes. After a half hour I sent a WhatsApp with a link to the Snail-Trail webpage to verify my story that I was walking from Scotland to Germany. Shortly thereafter I got a response explaining that some electric work was being done today and that they needed some downtime, but they would do something for me... when did I plan to arrive? A bit later I got a WhatsApp call from Maria asking how it would be if she invited some friends over to hear my story. I could have dinner with them. I certainly agreed to that! It turns out that Maria and her husband Nigel, who own and operate the campground, also lead a house church in their home. They have been active in ministry in Wales for many years. Their good friends and ministry partners for thirty years, Andrew and Deb, came over for the evening.
How can I say this? I was so disappointed that I could not connect with a church anywhere on my way through Wales. Now I was part of an impromptu home meeting. I shared my story of how God enabled me to overcome a speach impediment and healed my soul of the fear of speaking when he filled me with the Holy Spirit. Without that, I never would have become a pastor, never would have come to Europe and certainly would never had walked a Snail-Trail. Singing was a vital part of the Welsh revival a little over a century ago. They shared with me the Welsh Song of Revival, the melody of which comes from the national anthem. Listen to the passion and faith in their singing. I recipocated by singing my pilgrim song and then praying for Wales. Spontaneous worship followed, and then Maria had a prophetic impulse about a blue pilot flame sparking a wildfire of spiritual renewal in Wales. Apparently Evan Roberts, the central figure in the 1904 revival in Wales, had a similar vision at the start of his ministry. May that blue fire of enpowerment from heaven burn again! This was just simply a great way to end my prayer walk through Wales.
Photo 1: "Trees formed by the wind"
In the forefront you see a smaller tree that no longer lives. It had been bent by the force of the wind through the years. Behind it you see a larger tree that is alive which had also been shaped by the wind. I would like to see this as a prophetic picture for Wales... that the winds of the Holy Spirit which had once blown through the country and shaped its spiritual expression of Christianity, will do their redeeming, renewing and enpowering work once again.
Photo 2: It is interesting how God-appointments sometimes just seem to happen. Early in my walk today I saw a man, Gareth, doing partial push-ups on the back of a park bench. Without thinking anything I said that push-ups are good for you and that I did 100 a day in preparation for carrying the backpack on the Snail-Trail. He answered that he had once done 1000 a day, but a serious infection set him back, and he was now trying to slowly build back up. We had a God-talk. After I prayed for him, I encouraged him to get to know Jesus, to go to the source and read his biography - the first four books of the New Testament. He said he had recently been thinking about doing exactly that and was so grateful for the nudge in that direction.
After an apple break, Kevin and David (see photo) came around the corner. They are hiking buddies, and today was their day for a walk. Kevin is a follower of Jesus, but David is not quite their yet. We were going the same direction, so we walked the next few kilometers together. I think God used that encounter to encourage us all in the conversations that we had and the time of prayer before we parted ways... just what I needed before going through a very unpleasant industrial area.
Photo 3: "Part of the journey..."
It was loud, dusty and not very safe. The Wales Coastal Path was blocked at one point and the only option was this. Shortly after I took this picture, the narrow sidewalk ended. I decided to cut through a field to make my way to a residential area and hopefully reconnect to the coastal path. I had to climb over three fences to do so, but I made it.
Photo 4: "Cows grazing in the flood zone"
The beautiful cliffs are gone, but it is still aways nice to walk along the coast. In the background you can already see England.
Photo 5: "The Shepherd's Hut"
Maria and Nigel were so nice to me. They allowed me to stay in their Shepherd's Hut at their campgroup, a wooden wagen remade into a cottage. I slept so well and was so blessed. Thanks Maria and Nigel!!! The day started off with a "No-go" and ended with a warm welcome. This is Jesus. This is God's people. This is another one of those miracles that happen on the Snail-Trail.
27.
Jul
Southerndown - Barry
Photos 1 - 3: Today was a very beautiful walk along the cliffs of southern Wales. No encounters today, just walking and praying... and singing my pilgrim song from the cliffs.
Photo 4: "Nash Point Lighthouse"
It holds the distinction of being the last manned lighthouse in Wales before automation in 1998.
Photo 5: "World War II pillbox"
I saw a lot of defense structures walking along the coast of Wales. Thankfully they are relics of the past and hopefully will never be needed again.
Photo 4: "Nash Point Lighthouse"
It holds the distinction of being the last manned lighthouse in Wales before automation in 1998.
Photo 5: "World War II pillbox"
I saw a lot of defense structures walking along the coast of Wales. Thankfully they are relics of the past and hopefully will never be needed again.
26.
Jul
Southerndown
Photo 1: The pub at Southerndown also serves as the reception for the adjacent campground. When I got to there yesterday evening, the young woman at the pub said that there were no more places available at the campground. I had just walked through it to get to the pub. There was more than enough room for a one-man tent. There were no other options or other food and water resources available. I said all I needed was 2 m². At this point a young man, Archie, took over and said: "I will get you registered." Indeed the pub and campground were busy that Friday and Saturday, but on Sunday almost everyone left. To my horror I realized by unpacking my backpack that I had forgotten to buy some müsli for my breakfasts the next two days at the last town... three hours of walking ago. Again Archie came through with help. Sunday morning the pub offered a breakfast and Archie would bring me some oats and müsli that he had from home for my Monday breakfast. I had some good conversations and short God-talks with Archie and a few others at the campground and pub. I only had internet connection at the pub, so I sat almost all Sunday there to catch up on my blog Postings.
Photo 2: "Willy feels quite at home in such an environment..."
The view and beach at Southerndown.
Photo 3: "The Welsh flag"
Ancient roots: The dragon symbol dates back over 1,500 years to Roman military standards and early Celtic British leaders who used it to show power.
The Tudor Addition: King Henry VII added the green and white stripes in 1485 from his own royal family colors.
Photo 2: "Willy feels quite at home in such an environment..."
The view and beach at Southerndown.
Photo 3: "The Welsh flag"
Ancient roots: The dragon symbol dates back over 1,500 years to Roman military standards and early Celtic British leaders who used it to show power.
The Tudor Addition: King Henry VII added the green and white stripes in 1485 from his own royal family colors.
25.
Jul
Briton Ferry - Southerndown
Photo 1: "Road block"
From Briton Ferry I had mapped out a route that would take me along the coast. Then I came to this railroad crossing. There was once a pedestrian crossing there, but everything was fenced off and locked. There was no way to get across. I had to turn back, walk a couple hours on a busy road and more inland. This way was a bit shorter which helped compensate for the backtracking, but not very enjoyable.
Photo 2: After four days, I finally made it back to the coast. I would walk about one hour directly along the beach.
Photo 3: Then my path took me through a sand dune natural preserve. Not always was it clear which way the path went. Without the green line in hiking app, I would not have had a chance.
Photo 4: Ogmore Castle was built over 900 years ago in the 12th century. It was the home of a knight called William de Londres, one of many Nomand lords who came over from France to conquer England and Wales. The castle protected William, his family, servants and sondieren from the local Welsh population who were not very happy about being invaded and kept revolting!
Photo 5: One last hill to climb this week up to Southerndown where I would spend the weekend at a campground called "Three Golden Cups"... as in trophies, probably referring to the pub-restaurant-camping combo here. The name is also fitting to my walk today... I crossed three milestones: 40 days on the Snail-Trail, 1000 kilometers and 3x Mt. Everest altimeters! No wonder I am tired! I look forward to the day of rest tomorrow...
From Briton Ferry I had mapped out a route that would take me along the coast. Then I came to this railroad crossing. There was once a pedestrian crossing there, but everything was fenced off and locked. There was no way to get across. I had to turn back, walk a couple hours on a busy road and more inland. This way was a bit shorter which helped compensate for the backtracking, but not very enjoyable.
Photo 2: After four days, I finally made it back to the coast. I would walk about one hour directly along the beach.
Photo 3: Then my path took me through a sand dune natural preserve. Not always was it clear which way the path went. Without the green line in hiking app, I would not have had a chance.
Photo 4: Ogmore Castle was built over 900 years ago in the 12th century. It was the home of a knight called William de Londres, one of many Nomand lords who came over from France to conquer England and Wales. The castle protected William, his family, servants and sondieren from the local Welsh population who were not very happy about being invaded and kept revolting!
Photo 5: One last hill to climb this week up to Southerndown where I would spend the weekend at a campground called "Three Golden Cups"... as in trophies, probably referring to the pub-restaurant-camping combo here. The name is also fitting to my walk today... I crossed three milestones: 40 days on the Snail-Trail, 1000 kilometers and 3x Mt. Everest altimeters! No wonder I am tired! I look forward to the day of rest tomorrow...
24.
Jul
Llanelli - Briton Ferry
Video: "Only place to sleep"
In planning for this trip, I knew there would be no campground in Briton Ferry, no hostel, no other suitable sleeping place. This is not the first time I found refuge on the Snail-Trail at my "Father's House".
Photo 1: Willy was a bit uneasy about doing wild camping in a cemetery, but I assured him we would "rest in peace".
Photo 2: The day started off leaving the campground near Llanelli quite early. I love these Welsh words with double L's... they give quite a unique sound. The campground was actually part of a horse farm.
Photo 3: I had to get over this second bridge before heading back down towards the coast.
Photo 4: Finally a view of the sea from a hill overlooking Swansea.
Photo 5: "God-appointment with Daniel and Alicia"
Up on the hill overlooking Swansea, I saw Daniel and Alicia as I was about to cross a street and head down the hill. Just a few days ago they moved to an apartment on the corner and brought some things from the old apartment to the new one. Daniel asked me about my backpack and where I was going. He then offered to drive me down the hill, because it was real steep and not so safe to walk. I accepted his offer. He then asked if he and Alicia could take me to this viewpoint in "Photo 4" just a few minutes away. I agreed. As we were driving from there down the hill, Daniel wanted to know where I wanted go in Swansea. I mentioned the name of a grocery store where I needed to get supplies for the rest of the day. He offered to take me there and then on to Briton Ferry, so I would not have to carry the weight of the food and water with me. The stretch was also an unpleasant one through an industrial area. Usually I do not accept such offers for rides, but I felt God wanted this. On the way to Briton Ferry I shared expierences from the Snail-Trail. They took me to the church and togther we found the spot where we felt I could put up my tent without offending anyone. There we sat for nearly two hours. I answered questions they had about faith in God and explained why Jesus needed to come to earth, die on the cross and rise ftom zhe dead. They themselves said that our meeting today was a God-appointment. They were not quite at the point yet to say yes to Jesus, but getting very close... and Willy and I had a very peaceful night of sleep in the cemetery.
In planning for this trip, I knew there would be no campground in Briton Ferry, no hostel, no other suitable sleeping place. This is not the first time I found refuge on the Snail-Trail at my "Father's House".
Photo 1: Willy was a bit uneasy about doing wild camping in a cemetery, but I assured him we would "rest in peace".
Photo 2: The day started off leaving the campground near Llanelli quite early. I love these Welsh words with double L's... they give quite a unique sound. The campground was actually part of a horse farm.
Photo 3: I had to get over this second bridge before heading back down towards the coast.
Photo 4: Finally a view of the sea from a hill overlooking Swansea.
Photo 5: "God-appointment with Daniel and Alicia"
Up on the hill overlooking Swansea, I saw Daniel and Alicia as I was about to cross a street and head down the hill. Just a few days ago they moved to an apartment on the corner and brought some things from the old apartment to the new one. Daniel asked me about my backpack and where I was going. He then offered to drive me down the hill, because it was real steep and not so safe to walk. I accepted his offer. He then asked if he and Alicia could take me to this viewpoint in "Photo 4" just a few minutes away. I agreed. As we were driving from there down the hill, Daniel wanted to know where I wanted go in Swansea. I mentioned the name of a grocery store where I needed to get supplies for the rest of the day. He offered to take me there and then on to Briton Ferry, so I would not have to carry the weight of the food and water with me. The stretch was also an unpleasant one through an industrial area. Usually I do not accept such offers for rides, but I felt God wanted this. On the way to Briton Ferry I shared expierences from the Snail-Trail. They took me to the church and togther we found the spot where we felt I could put up my tent without offending anyone. There we sat for nearly two hours. I answered questions they had about faith in God and explained why Jesus needed to come to earth, die on the cross and rise ftom zhe dead. They themselves said that our meeting today was a God-appointment. They were not quite at the point yet to say yes to Jesus, but getting very close... and Willy and I had a very peaceful night of sleep in the cemetery.
23.
Jul
Carmarthen - Llanelli
Photo 1: I said yes to Jesus when I was 16, and I said yes to Astrid on this day 38 years ago, two decisions that I have never regretted and that have greatly impacted my life. This is the fourth time in a row that Astrid and I have not been together on our anniversary, because I have been walking on the Snail-Trail.
Photo 2: I went inland and up and down a number of high hills the past day and a half to get to this bridge. It would be another few days before I would reach the coast once again. One of the few Highlights of today's stage was the stretch through the river delta to get to this bridge in Carmarthen. Shortly before reaching the bridge I saw two people coming my way. One was an older man, JJ, who was being escourted by a young African, Oliver from Swaziland. JJ asked about my big backpack, and so we started talking. Both trust in Jsus. When I offered to pray for them, JJ said that he would prefer a hymn. I suggested "Amazing Grace". So we sang the first verse of this great hymn together on the walkway through the river delta.They apparently did not known or could not remember (JJ) the next two verses, so I did a solo on those verses. Oliver and JJ had big smiles. It does not take much to make someone happy.
Photo 3: In Carmarthen I went to a grocery store to get food supplies for the rest of the day. This would be my last possibility to do so until the next day. I had just put my backpack on my shoulders getting ready to leave the premises, when Emanuel came to collect my grocery cart. He asked where I was going. I told him I was walking with Jesus. He gave me a big smile and said that he was with God, and showed me his name tag: "Emanuel" which means "God with us". He was so happy to have me pray for him. It is not easy for immigrants to find their way through life in a different country.
Photo 4: I did a lot of walking on the road today, but this was another highlight of today's walk: a bike trail that had once been a railtrack, away from the traffic and in the shade.
Photo 5: "That man has walked a number of miles today!", Dermot said to his wife Sharon, when I arrived at the campground. They had seen me hours earlier on the road. Dermot called out to me and asked me whether I would like something to drink. Not only did they give me something to drink, but made me a bacon and egg sandwich a bit later in the evening and heated up water for my instant noodles... sure beat the can tuna which I was planning to have that evening. Dermot and Sharon were very kind and helpful to me. They were celebrating their birthdays, and I my anniversary. We had a good talk that evening and think they were touched by the prayer of blessing.
It had been a long day. It was now dark, and no internet connection at the campground... good night Astrid, happy anniversary! Love you!!!
Photo 2: I went inland and up and down a number of high hills the past day and a half to get to this bridge. It would be another few days before I would reach the coast once again. One of the few Highlights of today's stage was the stretch through the river delta to get to this bridge in Carmarthen. Shortly before reaching the bridge I saw two people coming my way. One was an older man, JJ, who was being escourted by a young African, Oliver from Swaziland. JJ asked about my big backpack, and so we started talking. Both trust in Jsus. When I offered to pray for them, JJ said that he would prefer a hymn. I suggested "Amazing Grace". So we sang the first verse of this great hymn together on the walkway through the river delta.They apparently did not known or could not remember (JJ) the next two verses, so I did a solo on those verses. Oliver and JJ had big smiles. It does not take much to make someone happy.
Photo 3: In Carmarthen I went to a grocery store to get food supplies for the rest of the day. This would be my last possibility to do so until the next day. I had just put my backpack on my shoulders getting ready to leave the premises, when Emanuel came to collect my grocery cart. He asked where I was going. I told him I was walking with Jesus. He gave me a big smile and said that he was with God, and showed me his name tag: "Emanuel" which means "God with us". He was so happy to have me pray for him. It is not easy for immigrants to find their way through life in a different country.
Photo 4: I did a lot of walking on the road today, but this was another highlight of today's walk: a bike trail that had once been a railtrack, away from the traffic and in the shade.
Photo 5: "That man has walked a number of miles today!", Dermot said to his wife Sharon, when I arrived at the campground. They had seen me hours earlier on the road. Dermot called out to me and asked me whether I would like something to drink. Not only did they give me something to drink, but made me a bacon and egg sandwich a bit later in the evening and heated up water for my instant noodles... sure beat the can tuna which I was planning to have that evening. Dermot and Sharon were very kind and helpful to me. They were celebrating their birthdays, and I my anniversary. We had a good talk that evening and think they were touched by the prayer of blessing.
It had been a long day. It was now dark, and no internet connection at the campground... good night Astrid, happy anniversary! Love you!!!
22.
Jul
Monkstone Beach - Carmarthen
Video: "Then sings my soul..."
Photo 1: Walking the Wales Coastal Path
Photo 2: Yestetday evening I got into the town of Tandy much later than I had wanted. I still had about two or three kilometers to walk up a steep hill to the campground where I planned to stay. I needed though to first get food supplies for the night and next morning. At the store an older couple saw me with my big backpack in the grocery cart and asked me how I was doing. I said I will be doing real good once I make it up the hill to the camping place, take a shower and have something to eat. Their names are Chris and Kate. They said they have a house with a garden near the town and asked whether I would like to put my tent up there. I would not need to carry my backpack with all the groceries up the hill and Chris would be willing to take me to my starting point the next day. How could I refuse an offer like that? We had a wonderful evening together. I shared many stories from the pilgrim path and about God's faithfulness... and I slept well in their garden. This morning Chris took me to my starting place on the Wales Coastal Path. I prayed for him, Kate and their family before I got out of the car. They would actually like to open their garden to hikers like me and cyclists who need a place to stay for a night. I told them about the internet plattform campspace.com... might be an option for them. They had just had their first experience with me.
Photo 3: A series of short tunnels dotted this part of the coast that were once used to transport coal.
Photo 4: Two seagulls fighting over a piece of bread...
Photo 5: One last look at the beach. I would need to go inland to cross over bridges from waterways leading to the sea. The next four days I would mostly be walking on roads going up and down one hill after the other.
Photo 1: Walking the Wales Coastal Path
Photo 2: Yestetday evening I got into the town of Tandy much later than I had wanted. I still had about two or three kilometers to walk up a steep hill to the campground where I planned to stay. I needed though to first get food supplies for the night and next morning. At the store an older couple saw me with my big backpack in the grocery cart and asked me how I was doing. I said I will be doing real good once I make it up the hill to the camping place, take a shower and have something to eat. Their names are Chris and Kate. They said they have a house with a garden near the town and asked whether I would like to put my tent up there. I would not need to carry my backpack with all the groceries up the hill and Chris would be willing to take me to my starting point the next day. How could I refuse an offer like that? We had a wonderful evening together. I shared many stories from the pilgrim path and about God's faithfulness... and I slept well in their garden. This morning Chris took me to my starting place on the Wales Coastal Path. I prayed for him, Kate and their family before I got out of the car. They would actually like to open their garden to hikers like me and cyclists who need a place to stay for a night. I told them about the internet plattform campspace.com... might be an option for them. They had just had their first experience with me.
Photo 3: A series of short tunnels dotted this part of the coast that were once used to transport coal.
Photo 4: Two seagulls fighting over a piece of bread...
Photo 5: One last look at the beach. I would need to go inland to cross over bridges from waterways leading to the sea. The next four days I would mostly be walking on roads going up and down one hill after the other.