Pilgrims' Associations of the Camino de Santiago: Everything You Need to Know

Pilgrim passports, orientation, support, and services: the article explains what the associations of pilgrims of the Camino de Santiago are, why it is advisable to be part of them, and what benefits they offer to those preparing for or walking the route. It describes how these associations assist with practical information, the issuance of the official pilgrim passport, access to shelters, logistical and cultural support, as well as their role in the signaling and maintenance of the Jacobean paths.

An extremely important asset of the Camino de Santiago, a crucial part of the pilgrim community, is undoubtedly the associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago. Friends, pilgrims, hospitaleros, entrepreneurs, lovers of the Camino, and motivated individuals with no other concern than to care for the Jacobean Routes and the pilgrims. We wanted to pay tribute to these groups of pilgrim action, and in this article, we will delve deeper into their purpose, objectives, and initiatives.

What is an association of friends of the Camino de Santiago?

The RAE defines an association as a "group of associates for the same purpose and, in its case, a legal entity formed by them." That is to say, it is a group of individuals who come together around a concern to achieve certain objectives. In this case, the concern is the Camino de Santiago.

They are non-profit institutions, as we can read on the website of the Spanish Federation of Associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago. Furthermore, "they represent a commendable effort of private initiatives embarked on the recovery of the pilgrimage to Compostela and the multiple Caminos de Santiago that traverse Spain." Generally federated, all have legal statutes and are registered in the corresponding administrative registers. All of this is to protect, conserve, and promote the different Jacobean routes, their reason for being.

Main associations of Pilgrims in Spain

In Spain, there are dozens of associations of Pilgrims. Practically in all Autonomous Communities, there is a presence of Jacobean associations, so there will always be some association on one of the official routes. Some even specify in their name a particular Jacobean Camino, which is the object of their association. By Autonomous Communities, Castilla y León and Andalucía have the most associations.

Spanish Federation of Associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago

The Spanish Federation of Associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago (FAACS) includes associations from almost all Autonomous Communities. It was founded in 1987, after the first International Congress of Jacobean Associations in Jaca. Originally, it was the "National Coordinator of Associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago" since October 1987. In April 1993, it transformed into the current Spanish Federation of Associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago.

The Federation includes federated associations with legalized statutes and registered in administrative records. It also relates to associations in the process of admission, other Spanish and foreign associations, and institutions linked to the Camino de Santiago.

The headquarters has a information office open in the mornings all year round. Additionally, they have temporary offices in summer in places with high influx of pilgrims, thanks to collaboration with associations and sponsorship from the Ministry of Culture and other institutions. On their website, you can find more information.

Galician Association of Friends of the Camino de Santiago

The Galician Association of Friends of the Camino de Santiago (AGACS) was founded in 1992. Its objective is to preserve the traditional spirit of pilgrimages. It is also dedicated to the research, recovery, signaling, and defense of the Caminos de Santiago, especially in Galicia. It also has two shelters available for pilgrims. Its motto, "Sempre no Camino", says it all. Visit their website to learn more.

International Associations of Pilgrims

The Camino de Santiago has gained worldwide fame, and in several countries we find associations supporting the pilgrim.

American Pilgrims on the Camino (USA)

American Pilgrims on the Camino is the only association in the USA for lovers of the Camino de Santiago. It is a volunteer-led organization with over 2,000 members in the USA and several other countries. Visit their website to learn more.

Their four values are based on their collective experiences as pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Their commitment is to reflect these values in every decision and action: community, service, gratitude, and simplicity.

Confraternity of Saint James (United Kingdom)

Based in the United Kingdom, this confraternity promotes the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela and the pilgrimage routes in the United Kingdom. Its aim is to provide information, guidance, and support to those wishing to undertake a Camino. You can find more information on their website.

Services and Benefits of Pilgrim Associations

The purposes and lines of action of the associations may vary in wording, but generally consist of:

• providing information and support to the pilgrim;
• creating, training, organizing, and managing groups of volunteer hospitaleros;
• collaborating with institutions to create shelters and refuges;
• organizing, administering, and managing facilities and volunteer staff;
• recovering paths and sections of the Jacobean routes;
• conducting studies, research, and publications on the Jacobean phenomenon;
• promoting cultural activities;
• representing the Jacobean world before institutions;
• collaborating with civil and ecclesiastical entities.

Advice and Guidance

The associations provide detailed information about the routes, necessary equipment, and physical preparation. They also offer practical tips for facing the challenges of the Camino.

Credentials and Certificates

The associations issue official pilgrim passports that allow pilgrims to access shelters and other services along the Way. At the end of the journey, they can help you obtain the Compostela certificate.

Accommodation and logistics

Many associations have agreements with shelters and accommodations, offering discounts and reservations. They also provide information about accommodation options and logistical services.

Events and cultural activities

The associations organize cultural events, talks, and activities related to the Camino de Santiago. These events allow pilgrims to connect with each other and with the culture of the Way.

How to join a pilgrim association

If you want to become part of a Friends of the Camino de Santiago association, the process is very easy. Choose the one that appeals to you the most, usually the one closest to you, and get in touch with them.

The role of the members is very important, as they are lovers of the Camino de Santiago and can generate many ideas. The essential requirement is simply to love the Camino de Santiago.

Requirements and registration process

Each association has its own requirements, but generally, you only need to complete a registration form and pay an annual fee. Registration is usually quick and easy, and often you can do it online.

Membership fees and benefits

Generally, you must pay a membership fee, which is necessary for the expenses derived from the existence of the association and the initiatives it undertakes. It is usually a more than affordable fee, and varies according to the association.

The benefits of being a member and part of these communities include access to exclusive resources, discounts at shelters, and participation in events.

Invitation to participate and connect with other pilgrims

By joining an association, you become part of a community of people who share your passion for the Camino de Santiago. It invites you to be part of a community that shares your dreams and supports you every step of the Way.

Being part of an association of Friends of the Camino de Santiago is a very good idea: this way, you will always be on the Way, don’t you think? You can contribute a lot, as an unconditional lover of the Camino de Santiago. Moreover, they often organize outings to some Jacobean route, so as not to lose the essence of who we are, pilgrims in love with our Camino de Santiago.