The Persistence of the Sacred: German Catholic Pilgrimage, 1832-1937

The Persistence of the Sacred explores the religious worldviews of Europeans who traveled to Trier and Aachen to view sacred relics in their cathedrals, challenging the narrative of widespread secularization in Europe during the long nineteenth century. It reveals that religious practices thrived well into the modern period and that laity and clergy had different perspectives on the meaning of pilgrimage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 372 pages
Publication date: 03 October 2022
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

For countless Catholic devotees, the act of pilgrimage has provided a means to seek solace and enlightenment in the face of life's most profound mysteries. The profound exploration of religious beliefs and practices within the context of European travelers visiting the sacred relics housed in the cathedrals of Trier and Aachen is at the heart of The Persistence of the Sacred. This captivating work challenges the prevailing narrative of widespread secularization that characterized Europe during the long nineteenth century. It unveils a rich tapestry of religious practices that persisted well into the modern era, showcasing the profound engagement of men in their faith and the complex dynamics between clergy and pilgrims regarding the interpretation of relics.

Drawing upon a diverse range of private ephemeral and material sources, including films, photographs, postcards, correspondence, and souvenirs, Skye Doney meticulously reconstructs the enduring and multifaceted sacred worldview of German Catholics. Through her meticulous research, she compellingly argues that laity and clergy held distinct perspectives on the significance of pilgrimage, highlighting the nuanced and multifaceted nature of this spiritual journey.

The Persistence of the Sacred serves as a vital endeavor to reclaim the rich history of Catholic pilgrimage, seeking to unravel the intricate connections between relics, religiosity, modernity, and faith. By delving into the experiences and perspectives of these travelers, the book offers a profound understanding of the human quest for meaning and the enduring power of religious practices to shape our lives.

Weight: 640g
Dimension: 236 x 158 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487543105