Functional changes of pilgrimages: findings from Kraków foot pilgrimage to Jasna Góra

Abstract

Traditionally, the primary functions of pilgrimages include fulfilling religious and spiritual needs. The secondary functions are educational, social inclusion, cultural and recreational. However, in recent years, a discussion has emerged over how the collective nature of pilgrimages may be taking a more private turn. Our findings based on three years of field study researching the foot pilgrimages from Krakow to Jasna Góra from 2006 to 2008 support this claim. Through 579 surveys, multiple interviews and participant observation, our findings suggest that both pilgrims and the organisers are interested in continuing the religious character of the pilgrimage but we do see a decrease in the penance function as an important factor of the pilgrimage. We have observed an increased interest in groups praying in silence over traditional forms of pilgrimaging. We also measured a decrease in the integration between the pilgrims and the local community around the route. These findings point to changes in the primary functions of pilgrimages over time.