A pilgrim walks into a church, carrying a bag on her back, with a walking stick in her hand; she approaches a shrine and lights a candles. She spends a few moments in prayer, maybe counting her beads. What is she doing? Why? What is the meaning, the significance of her actions?

What do we mean by pilgrimage? Is it the walking or the destination? In what way is a pilgrimage different from going on a long walk or cycle ride? What features would you expect to find in something called a pilgrimage? Can you have a secular pilgrimage?

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