Poland is known for its Marian shrines and ancient monasteries. For long, it has been a site where pilgrims from various corners of the world flock in with faith, to discover themselves. This is not merely a journey where you visit a new destination, but traveling into unknown aspects about yourself and also shared humanity.
Right from Kraków’s majestic Wawel Cathedral to calm walks in Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, you will come across various people from different parts of the globe. Each one carries with them their individual stories, prayers, and hopes. The best part of a pilgrimage is probably the bond that people develop with one another.
A common purpose
Pilgrimage takes away all diversions, which is a complete contrast to traditional travel. Taking part in group activities together enables people to connect deeply and gradually bond with one another. This connection develops slowly through praying and walking together. Everything starts from an interactional gesture, for instance, sharing water, a smile, the direction details, and informal discussions. All these give rise to empathy as you navigate your journey through struggle, peace, and strength with each other’s presence.
Acts of kindness
Often, when you have opted for a Catholic pilgrimage Poland package, it’s because you wish to rethink your life and are willing to do acts of kindness, unconditionally, during your trip. And in pilgrimage tours, you get ample chances to do that. It starts from pamphlet distribution, serving food, water, managing a queue, and many more. As a group, you travel to several destinations where you are allocated several duties. While accomplishing that, you might also extend a kind gesture to your fellow travelers, such as sharing your food, passing the water, and even taking charge of another’s duty, as they might be tired. It can help to develop an unconditional friendship, which can be very healing.
Sharing one’s story
Human beings are creatures of social interaction. Hence, it is evident that people will speak with one another when they are in a different land, surrounded by new people. Since it’s a pilgrimage and Poland have some of the best monasteries and chapels that can start a conversation, travelers are bound to share each other’s stories. While you can hold space and respect for every story, there will be people with whom you will find a certain resonance. With them, you might feel a bond can exist even beyond your current Polish pilgrimage.
Therefore, it is misleading to think about pilgrimages as a tour where everything is serious and sombre. What looks stoic or very spiritual on the surface can prove to be amicable and warm, given the people with whom you choose to travel. With the right mix, you will not just enjoy your tour but will also have a profound experience. And all these can pave the path towards a pure human bond and friendship.
Conclusion
There comes a phase in your life when you want to rethink everything, and a pilgrimage seems to be the best option. The experience certainly is going to be pleasant with several sacred sites to visit, prayer sessions to attend, and people to connect with. And through it all, you might find yourself developing a new bond and friendship that might add a new meaning to your life.