Image and Pilgrimage in Christian Culture #1

I love the idea of long-distance hiking and pilgrimage and hope to one day attempt one. I find the connection between the minimal belongings and the sense of community intriguing. "Image and Pilgrimages" discusses both how "communitas" can be established through the lack of items from home and how the presence of these items can harm the potential for "communitas." By leaving comfort items or distractions, such as cell phones or other electronic devices, individuals become more engaged in their surroundings, and therefore more available for community. This environment is so unique in a world of rapidly increasing urbanization and dependence on technology. There is so much beauty in strangers embarking in the same journey and establishing relationships through their focus on one another and their shared experiences.

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