I’ve been out and about in Arganil near Coimbra. Delivering the proud to be Portuguese postcards, and engaging with shop and cafe owners. This is a community of local Portuguese people, and immigrants who are rooting and making their homes locally.

The weekly Thursday market is a great opportunity to gather and share and discuss the problems which need solving. I heard stories of what isn’t working in the systems, which impact people and animals day to day, so had plenty of anecdotes which confirmed the importance of connecting and co-creating in community. This is an area which has been greatly affected by forest fires and floods. This community knows first hand about resilience and what builds community muscle and what thwarts it.

I’ve been touched and blessed by my encounters, and refreshed by the water of the local river. Grace has placed a welcome hand on my pilgrims head, and I am changed by the experience. Thank you Arganil.