From the Camino to Praetorium

Fresh off the Camino Primitivo, still carrying the quiet rhythm of long days and inner reflection, I boarded a plane for Dallas, trading pilgrim paths for something I never imagined I’d experience. This past August, my niece surprised my sister and I with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: to be extras on The Chosen, my favorite television series. There was no hesitation. Some invitations are simply meant to be answered.

For three unforgettable days, I had the joy of being part of something deeply meaningful to me and my family. I was cast as a “citizen” on The Chosen, the groundbreaking, Bible-based series that brings the life of Jesus to the screen through the eyes of those who encountered Him-disciples, leaders, Romans, and ordinary people. For a brief moment, I was one of those ordinary people, woven quietly into a much larger story.

Being on set was pure magic. I witnessed firsthand the care, intention, and hard work that go into every scene; every costume, every gesture, every word spoken. The whispered directions, the resetting of scenes, the sudden, immersive silence just before “Action!”. Seeing Dallas Jenkins and the entire cast and crew work tirelessly to bring each character to life was nothing short of awe-inspiring. It deepened my appreciation for the show in ways I never expected and left me even more excited to see the full Season Six.

And then there was the joy of sharing it all with my sister and niece. Standing side by side, we were completely star-struck. Laughing and giggling a lot, too 😊 Those shared glances, whispered excitement, and moments of disbelief are memories I’ll treasure forever. Being there together made the experience not just special, but sacred in its own way.

For those who might not know 😊, The Chosen is an American Christian drama series created, directed, and co-written by filmmaker Dallas Jenkins. It is the first multi-season television series about the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, starring Jonathan Roumie as Jesus. What makes the series so powerful is its perspective, telling the story through the lives of those who encountered Him, rather than from a distant, untouchable viewpoint.

The Texas heat was intense, but we were well cared for. We were hydrated, fed, and surrounded by an atmosphere of kindness and genuine concern for others. On and off camera, there was a palpable sense of respect, humility, and love that felt deeply aligned with the message the show seeks to share. It truly felt like Christ-like care in action.

From the Camino to the camera, this journey surprised me in the most beautiful way. What began as a simple “yes” became an experience filled with gratitude, wonder, and connection. I’ll be watching Season Six with a full heart, knowing that for a brief moment, I had the privilege of standing inside a story that has touched me so deeply.

REFLECTION:

Pilgrimage has taught me that the journey doesn’t always end when the walking does. Sometimes the road simply changes shape. After weeks of putting one foot in front of the other on the Camino Primitivo, I thought I was returning to ordinary life but instead, I was invited into another kind of pilgrimage. One without a backpack or waymarkers, yet still rooted in presence, humility, and openness.

Standing on set as an unnamed “citizen,” I was reminded that faith is often lived quietly, in the background, in small acts of witness and participation. Just as on the Camino, not everyone is meant to lead the way; many of us are simply called to show up, to be present, and to play our part, however small, in a story much larger than ourselves.

This experience felt like a continuation of the Camino’s lessons: say yes when the door opens, trust the path even when it surprises you, and recognize the sacred in unexpected places. Whether walking ancient pilgrim routes or standing beneath bright studio lights, the invitation is the same, to walk with faith, to remain openhearted, and to remember that every journey, when entered with intention, can become holy ground.