REL 277: Dimensions of Pilgrimage-May Term 2019 

This course centers on dimensions of pilgrimage from religious perspectives with attention to international complexities and historical realities of pilgrimage. A combination of in-class instruction and a week walking El Camino de Santiago in Spain, the class will approach pilgrimage as both historical reality of human experience and a metaphor for finding one’s self on a transformative journey to a sacred center.

At the end of the experience you will be able to…

1.) Articulate a basic understanding of your role in a pilgrimage, including knowledge of pilgrimages around the world, especially the Camino de Santiago, and motivations for attending pilgrimage and the results;

2.) Critically engage the international elements of pilgrimage in Spain, in particular, in light of historical, cultural, economic, and religious trends;

3.) Express a reflective component of the course: How pilgrimage serves as a metaphor for internal exploration of self and how one relates to the world;

4.) Recognize basic elements, and symbols and expressions of pilgrimage, especially in regards to the mind-body connection;

5.) Incorporate walking as a reflective discipline.

The $3,000 program cost includes:

• 3 credits
• Coaching/Spiritual Direction
• Round trip airfare from Washington Dulles to Santiago de Compostela + shuttle to/from Washington Dulles/Mary Balwdin
• Lodging in Spain and some meals
• Excursions and cultural events
• In-country transportation
• Travel Insurance and 24/7 In-Country support
• Luggage transfer between hostels (Optional)
• Backpacks and sleeping bags

Suggested Packing List

Application Timeline:

All applications for May Term study abroad are due October 1st at the Spencer Center.

A deposit of half will be required by November 1st.

For more information contact Dr. Katherine Low via klow@marybaldwin.edu and Nell Desmond via hdesmond@marybaldwin.edu