A pilgrimage can be described as a religious journey. It could be a physical journey to a place of religious importance or a spiritual journey. People go on pilgrimage for a range of reasons, such as:
healing
meeting new people
learning about faith
developing their faith
When people go on pilgrimage, they may go in the belief that they will be healed spiritually, physically or sometimes both. People go to Lourdes in south west France because many believe that spring water from the grotto there can heal people if they are sick. Spiritual healing allows the individual to rebuild their relationship with God.
Some people may go on pilgrimage to meet new and like-minded people. Some people may also go to help those who cannot travel without help. The Welsh National Pilgrimage takes those who are disabled and need help and support to Lourdes each year. They are supported by volunteers and fellow pilgrimA person who performs a journey which has religious or spiritual significance, known as a pilgrimage..
Catholics on pilgrimage will often learn more about their faith and in particular the place that they are visiting. This can help them develop their understanding, which in turn can help them deepen their faith.