"In medieval Christian countries, the returned pilgrim, though perhaps outwardly acclaimed for his deepened piety, may have actually set back his chances of preferment to positions of higher office or trust, through his long absence. If some form of initiation is involved here, it is a secret, invisible one, not an enhancement of status. Yet there has undoubtedly accrued to the pilgrim a heightened respect and moral standing among the pious in the local community...These rewards tend to fall within the orbit of communitas rather than social structure..." pg 15.
Dr. Redick has mentioned many times the idea of communitas and how a connection is made between fellow pilgrims. This connection seems to ignore social confines, ladders and other items. The above quote interests me because it shows that coming off of such a experience impacts your connection with others. For those who have experienced the communitas, you have a connection with. But for those who do not come with you on the pilgrimage, they cannot begin to understand what you have gone through and all they can see is your long absence. The changes that might happen to you are not seen by others, and when you come back changed they might not fully understand it. This quote also comments on how the life experience that you have on the pilgrimage might actually put you back in your normal life. The question the pilgrim would have to ask themself is, is it worth it?
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