11. Aug 2025

Brodnica - Golub Dobrzyń

Photo 1: I have now left the northern region often referred to as the "Land of a thousand lakes." There are actually more like 2000 lakes in this area. I now follow rivers and walk through endless fields. The past two stages have bumped here and there with the Drwęca River. This willow tree hangs over the water at the campground in Golub Dobrzyń where I stayed the night.

Photo 2: In the morning in the town of Mszan I felt a tug in my heart to see if the Catholic Church there was open. It was, and I went in, sang my pilgrim song and prayed for the people of Poland. I then went to the parish house to see if the priest might be there and whether he could stamp my pilgrim passport. He was there and to my surprise he could speak some German. He had actually taken a language course many years ago in Munich and had visited Landshut near to where I live. Before I left I asked if he would like to pray together. He suggested the Lord's prayer and so we said it together... in German.

Photo 3: This week promises summer weather, so I am happy when the path leaves the open fields and roads and goes through the forest.

Photo 4: After my lunch break in forest I head some bagpipe music and wondered where that might be coming from. I quickly found the source. Jakub was sitting on a log near the path, his shirt full of mushrooms that he had collected, and he likes to listen to bagpipe music. He also spoke good English with a bit of a British accent. He did not know about the Way of St. James, even though it went right through the forest area where he lived. He said he was not much into religion. I told him I was not either, but rather walking with Jesus as a way if life. We talked and prayed. Afterwards he wanted to have a photo of us together to remember the moment. I have one as well, but decided to post this one with him and his mushrooms.

Photo 5: The church tower in Golub Dobrzyn with the light from the evening sun reflecting on it.

Video: I whistle when I see deer on the path. It signals to them that I am not dangerous and trying to sneak up on them. Many times they will slow down and not run away in panic. Sometimes they will even stop to listen for a moment like this one did.