Lesson 5: Pilgrimage

Question 1

What is pilgirmage?

Answer 1

• Pilgrimage is a journey made by a believer to a holy site for religious reasons.

Question 2

What are the 2 popular pilgrimage sites for Christians?

Answer 2

• Lourdes (in France)
• Iona (Scottish Island)

Question 3

Why do Christians go on pilgirimage?
Give 8 reasons…

Answer 3

1.) Grow closer to God/ Strengthen faith (seen the landmark)
3.) Be forgiven for sin.
4.) Reflect on one’s life
5.) Pray for something special
6.) Seek cure for an illness
7.) Help other pilgrims who are disabled/ ill.
8.) Experience a holy place
9.) Meet others who share the faith.

Question 4

How does pilgrimage impact a Christian’s life?
Give 4 reasons….

Answer 4

1.) Better understanding of their faith
2.) Renew their Christian enthusiasm.
3.) Connection with Christian community
4.) Gives a good feeling about helping ill/ disabled pilgrims.

Question 5

What is believed to have happened at Lourdes, France?

Answer 5

• Mary is said to have appeared in a number of visions to “Bernadette.”
• Mary told Bernadette to dig a hole into the ground.
• This water is believed to have healing properties.

Question 6

What activities to Christians do at Lourdes, France?
3 different activties.

Answer 6

• Bathe in springs/ pools of water
• Pilgrims pray for healing and forgiveness (may be of loved one….)
• Recite the rosary together

Question 7

What is the importance of Iona, Scotland?

Answer 7

• A saint established a monastic community there.
• Community has an ecumenical centre, where pilgrims can stay.

Question 8

What is meant by “ecumenical”?

Answer 8

• Promoting/ bringing unity among the world’s Christian Churches….

Question 9

What activities do Christians do at Iona?

Answer 9

• Quiet area in nature—> praying, reading bible, meditating/ reflecting
• Hikes/ visiting historical sites on the island (connected to God –> spiritual world)
• Attend workshops and services in abbey.