Theology of pilgrimage – selected biblical and pastoral aspects
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15633/ps.1091Keywords:
pilgrimage, pilgrim, Bible, theology of pilgrimage, pilgrimage ministryAbstract
The author develops theology of pilgrimage on the base of selected scriptures of the Old and New Testament. He refers especially to the way of Abraham, Exodus of Israel from Egypt and excerpts of the Epistles of Apostle Paul. Biblical stories are prophetic announcements of Church which is described as the faithful on the pilgrimage. Moreover, the stories are symbol of a journey of each human being to the encounter with God in the eternity. The author formulates practical conclusions for the pilgrimage ministry and for pilgrims themselves. He begins the analysis with the description of the moment of taking up the journey when after time filled with restlessness the pilgrim makes decision on the future (entrusting to God, stating purposes, strengthening religious motivations of the pilgrimage, surrendering to the providence of God). In the next stage, he discusses journey alone, which is time of the trial and strengthening the pilgrim. The pilgrimage is not only about reaching destination, getting from the pilgrim’s home to the shrine, but about a spiritual journey of conversion, renewal, deepening faith and approaching God. Duration of the pilgrimage is measured not only by time in literal meaning (chronos), but by time of fulfillment of plans of God (kairos).
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