A Theology of Pilgrimage
A Theology of Pilgrimage
Project Summary
The phenomenon of pilgrimage is both important in the lived experience of Christianity throughout history, and rarely explored theologically. Historians, anthropologists, sociologists have researched its contours, but the theological discourse around pilgrimage have been limited, despite official documents in the wake of the 2000 Jubilee. In recent years, I have attempted to reconnect aspects of pilgrimage that have a theological import – historical narratives, devotional practices, Biblical sources – to explore the meaning of a pilgrim paradigm in the Church, and understand its continued relevance.
Target Audience
Theologians, Pilgrimage Scholars, and the general public.
Research
- What is the (Christian) meaning of pilgrimage?
- Why does pilgrimage have an enduring value, and what could it say to the Church?
Facts & Figures
Key Findings & Insights
A monograph (André Brouillette. The Pilgrim Paradigm : Faith in Motion. New York: Paulist Press, 2021) weaves various insights and results about the phenomenology of pilgrimage, its Biblical roots, its doctrinal and liturgical import, and its use as a metaphor of the self. Other elements of research have been published in numerous articles and book chapters. I also co-edited a book on the topic: Jeffrey Bloechl, André Brouillette, ed. Pilgrimage as Spiritual Practice : a Handbook for Teachers, Wayfarers, and Guides. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 2022.