Future of the pilgrimage: Experts are calling for a revolution in pilgrimage locations

Future of the pilgrimage: Experts are calling for a revolution in pilgrimage locations

Bonn, Deutschland - In Bonn, experts from the Catholic German Bishops' Conference presented new concepts for the pilgrimage who have to react to the changed needs of the pilgrims. According to the emeritus Professor Martin Lörsch, there is an urgent need for action to adapt the traditional pilgrimage to modern times. While previously pilgrimage was heavily connected to Christian rites, a new generation, including many non-Christians, is drawn to the holy sites today. These new pilgrim groups, which also include bicycle pilgrims, require alternative offers, such as charging stations for e-bikes, according to Lörsch. He calls on the dioceses to set clear priorities in order to ensure the future of these places sustainably. Using the example of Kevelaer, where the first changes are already being implemented, it can be seen that such plans can be implemented, such as Kathpress reported .

literary discoveries and pilgrim boom

parallel to the trend of pilgrimage, literature on this topic is becoming increasingly important. Professor Lörsch points out that several new books were published in 2023 that deal with the pilgrimage path. Works such as "The Secret of the Pilgrimage" by Hildegard Huwe and Miriam Penkhues offer insights into the spiritual dimension of being on the road and are of interest to many searching people. "Pilgrimage tourism in Germany in and after Corona Pandemie" is also examined in a scientific article that is currently discussing relevant trends. These books and studies illustrate the ongoing pilgrimage boom and the growing interest in spiritual trips-a phenomenon that is not only reflected in the travel seams, but also in the literature, as SJB Trier emphasized .