The Pilgrimage In The Medieval Ages

Holy Selfies

Pilgrimage was practiced in the medieval times. The years 1100-1600 were considered The Golden Age for pilgrimage in Europe (History of the Pilgrimage, 2014) It was designed as a journey to become closer to God by rejecting every day comfort. One could conclude that it was a sacrifice to God. As pilgrimage became popular in Europe, it helped shape the system and even stabilized economic needs for villages. Furthermore, villages developed into towns due to the increase in pilgrim numbers. Beautiful and elaborate cathedrals were found among the pilgrimage routes. Relics were part of the cathedral experience. The relics represented a supernatural power that could perform a miracle for the pilgrims that completed the journey. The relics

People seek escape from the burdens of modern life and its devices that increase daily distractions; therefore, they venture into nature in search of healing, meaning, and a path of self-discovery seems like the perfect getaway. Pilgrimage has different meanings for different people; however, some pilgrimage routes are ingrained in some of the world’s major religions and others are simply about taking on a challenge and appreciating a genuine cultural experience. Modern pilgrims want to have memories of their journey; as a result, one can find blogs and thousands of pilgrim pictures on social media. There is controversy about technology being part of the pilgrimage journey. Yet, the younger crowd continues to use social media to share, encourage, and illustrate what the experience is all about. There are different pilgrimage sites that are popular amongst the social media

One could become receptive when looking at pictures and comments of people that are experiencing the journey. It makes the public part of the experience without having to be present, yet it is also provokes the mind to want to experience such a magnificent journey. Social media enables one to be part of the experience; even though, one might have not met the person on the journey. Yet his/her trip brings a sense of unity and tranquility.

The research of pilgrimage is refreshing. During the process, one comes to the realization that pilgrimage takes passion, training, and support of others. It is a bonding experience. The purpose of the journey may vary from person to person. The search for a free mind is one of the common motivations of many. Food, fellowship, self-discovery is all part of the messages shared on social media. For instance, in the YouTube video the narrator explains how there is no timeline when he was in the Camino. The simplicity of life was refreshing. Just like Drew’s story there are thousands of others wanting to share their story with the rest of the