A Pauline progress : protestant post-pilgrimage reflections

Abstract

Over the years, Protestant outlook on pilgrimage has changed rather dramatically. From a total dissolution from the institution of Roman Catholic pilgrimage due to irreconcilable differences in the practice of religion and Biblical interpretation, to a careful understanding of certain aspects of ‘faith-travel’ and finding common grounds. Important differences will always remain between the Roman-Catholics and the Protestant versions of Christianity, although the Maltese Islands have witnessed some remarkable encounters regarding the pilgrim’s progress along a reconciliatory way. The chapter provides an account of convergences and divergences along the footsteps of St Paul, spanning 15 years of monitoring this change in attitude on the Maltese archipelago, a site of Pauline interest. Malta, in view of its 8,200 years religious cultural heritage, may be called a sacred island, where the Mater Magna and the Classical Pantheon of Old merge with St Paul, St John and the Holy Virgin. Although Luther prohibited pilgrimage, the idea of pilgrimage lingered as the purpose of life - Heaven and life equals a pilgrimage. This is sharp contrast with the Roman Catholic and the Orthodox Churches which have upheld a continuous tradition of pilgrimage. At present, the Protestant Churches are rediscovering what has been lost. However, since it is tradition and not confirmed in the Scriptures, it is not easy for everyone to understand why pilgrimage tradition is such a hot topic. In Malta, and elsewhere, a Protestant reconciliation can be noticed with ‘pilgrimage’ and the word ‘pilgrimage’ itself, without losing Protestant values. Point of departure on this chapter will be Protestant faith-travel measured to post-pilgrimage values.