Pilgrimage

Christianity Practices

pilgrimage definition

a journey to a specific place that has religious or spiritual significance

how do places become a site of pilgrimage

• mentioned in the Bible

• mentioned by Jesus

• where a miracle happened

• a site of religious history

• where a religious leader lives

• somewhere spiritual healing takes place

• associated with the founder of the religion

• where they believe God's presence is stronger

• tomb/resting place of an important figure

what's the purpose of pilgrimage

• deepen connection with God and faith

• feel connected to the worldwide community of Christians; to meet like minded thinkers; meet Christians from different denominations and places across the world

• learn more about and feel connected to the history of Christianity

• see sites where miracles happened

• receive special healing

• seek healing/acceptance of ailments

reasons why someone wouldn't go on pilgrimage

• too expensive/not worth it

• God present everywhere

• money spent on pilgrimage could be used for charity instead of travel

• sites are often crowded and overcommercialised

why would protestants not go to pilgrimage sites (and who's ideas are these)

• John Cauvin

• believe pilgrimage sites are worshipping idols and shrines, distracting from proper worship

what are the benefits of going on pilgrimage

• form of spiritual renewal

• seek healing/acceptance of ailments

• brings people closer to God

• community; people can share in faith

• learn more and feel connected to the history of Christianity

• see sites where miracles occurred and receive special blessings