The Pilgrim Journey: A History of Pilgrimage in the Western World

(Paperback)

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Description

The Pilgrim Journeytells the story of pilgrimage in the Western world over the course of two millennia: how pilgrimage was born and grew in antiquity, how it blossomed in the Middle Ages, how it faltered over subsequent centuries only to reemerge stronger than before in modern times. From the legendary journey of the Magi all the way to pilgrimages in the AmericasChimay in New Mexico, Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico, and Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupr in Canadathe book describes the pilgrim routes and sacred destinations, the pilgrims, the many hazards of travel, and the spiritual motivations and rewards.

Reviews

"This book provides an engrossing read. We share in the joys and tribulations of pilgrims far and near and are enriched in mind and heart. The author shows much skill in weaving together a rich crisscross of narratives about what it meant to undertake adventurous journeys in premodern times, and about the benefits of pilgrimage today. I highly recommend this inspiring account."
--URSULA KING, author of The Search for Spirituality

"Interest in going on pilgrimage is on the rise. The Pilgrim Journey is a fine resource for both the new and the seasoned pilgrim. James Harpur tells a good story, full of earthy details that make this an engaging read. An excellent book."
--LAURA SWAN, author of The Wisdom of the Beguines

Author Bio

JAMES HARPUR is a Cambridge-educated author whose books include The Atlas of Sacred Places, Revelations: The Medieval World, Love Burning in the Soul, and The Gospel of Joseph of Arimathea. He is also an award-winning poet. A passionate walker and traveler to sacred sites, he lives in the west of Ireland.