Erin King- Image and Pilgramage in Christian Culture

Pilgrimage- its more than theology. Its the field of social relations and cultural concepts. Pilgrimage is not just the practice of worship or journey for religious reasons, but its also about communitas and cultural concepts that exist. I think one of the best examples of this was the story Dr.Redick told about the Carmino in Spain. People were traveling for all sorts of reasons, to see the tomb of a disciple,the magnetic connection with outer space,or just for the experience of hiking and living outdoors. This shows that people go on a pilgramage for different reasons. Usually people become critical of theology or why they are on the trail during there journey. But with the support of comminitas, find the will to carry on. A great example of this was in the documentary of Lion Kings and also Dr. Redicks movie presentation. Both showed the communitas that formed between hikers, and the power of the pilgrimage. I think its awesome the bonds that form because of hiking the trail. That instant friendly attitude that most people have on the trail cant be denied. This shows that the social relations of pilgrimage play an important role in the spiritual journey.