Question: In recent years group shell ceremonies have increased in the news, most have ties back to American Pilgrims on the Camino chapters. Is this a recent phenomena or something with real history on the Camino?
@SMOM Pilgrim, hi and an interesting question.
From the replies above my surmise is a recent north American phenomena. My tuppence worth is it comes from a near universal desire for recognition/acceptance as normal of an undertaking that is not an everyday event from those who do not otherwise have a sacramental religious connection.
@Linda V, at post #19 above, nails the generally understood original purpose of the scallop shell (the symbol for the apostle Saint James) as proof of having arrived at Compostela.
As others have said above, those with even a slight connection to their local parish, Anglican or Roman in particular, will find a priest content to give a blessing before setting out. And possibly an invitation to talk with a parish group on your return.
I was so blessed each time before setting out from home and at the start point for each route - Le Puy-en-Velay, again at Saint-Jean and Roncevalles and at Canterbury Cathedral (at the early morning eucharist using both the Cathedral's text and the Gaelic blessing) and at various (mainly evening) Eucharists on the way.
But for me the most significant blessing was at the evening Eucharist in the parish church at Logrono. At the peace, as a neighbour and I greeted one another, I felt something fall into my hand. Glancing, I saw a 1 Euro coin. The coin itself was of no particular practical value. The meaning, the blessing, was invaluable. Without words we both exchanged a heartfelt moment.
So
@SMOM Pilgrim, for your journey ahead I say, kia kaha, kia māia, kia mana'wa'nui (take care, be strong, confident and patient)