On both my
Camino Frances pilgrimages in 2013 and 2014, I had some of the best intellectual discussions with non-Christians, usually over coffee or tea. By definition, this included "people of the book" (Jews and Muslims), as well as atheists, agnostics, Wiccans, and even a couple of dyed-in-the-wool Communists (boy did they miss their historical train stop).
In any event, I think these pilgrims were more surprised in speaking to an American who actually understood their positions, and could give as good as he got in debate. At the end of such debates and discussions, we would toast each other's health, wish each other "vaya con Dios - go with God" and toddle along down the path.
From these experiences, I submit that the key to getting along with all people you meet along the way is two-fold:
- First, just let it be, do not advertise your religious proclivities or lack of same unless it comes up in conversation. Then, do not be shy. Be honest but not arrogant. All persons have a right to an opinion and to have that opinion heard.
- Second, and this comes from our shared scriptural foundations, "by their deeds you shall know them..." Put another way, if you accord all people you meet along the way the same mutual respect you would reasonably expect from them, everyone gets along just fine. This, of course, is the proverbial "Golden Rule."
The sole "issues" you might be dietary. However, if you consider yourself secular, then this should not be an issue. Then again, there are many similarities between halal and kosher food preparation. You will likely find NEITHER outside the largest towns and cities on the Camino. So, take this for what is worth...
But, and in any event, before you set out, you should know that the Spanish LOVE their pork, and ham, especially prepared as sausages. It finds it's way into most every dish. Just learn the words for no pork please "sin jamon por favor," and the like, and you are good to go.
No one wears "badges of faith" per se, along the Camino. Oh, you might occasionally see a group of particularly penitent pilgrims following one of their group carrying a cross, but to each his own. One of the basic rules of the Camino is that ultimately, all persons must do their own Camino according to their own sensibilities, capabilities, and motivations. The corollary is to judge not, lest ye be judged...
Last year, while serving as a volunteer Amigo at the pilgrim office in the Cathedral at Santiago, I was surprised to see a group of perhaps a dozen adults waving a large Pakistani flag about in the plaza in front of the Cathedral. I do not know what the back story on this group was. I do not know if they were Muslim or Christian. What I do know is that they were jubilant over having completed their pilgrimage and were proud to show it. I was genuinely happy for them.
You will enjoy yourself and have a profound experience. Go for it.
I hope this helps...
