Knowing how to leave, knowing how to arrive: The Missionary Art of the "Pilgrims of Hope

Abstract

This article aims to elaborate some reflections based on the theme of the Jubilee Year: Pilgrims of Hope. Pilgrimage is an inherent dimension of human existence and faith, since there is no permanent dwelling place in earthly existence. Pilgrimages are, so to speak, a common thread in the history of humanity, in the lives of saints and religions. Pilgrimage means walking along a path with a well-established goal. In this approach, the missionary outing is analyzed as a pilgrimage, presenting some concrete clues for these outings. Some concrete clues and pertinent reflections on the "being" and "doing" of mission are offered. It seeks to contextualize the theme - Pilgrims of Hope - of the Jubilee Year with the historical, biblical and anthropological perspective, as to how a Jewish Kabbalistic idea has assumed a privileged place within the Christian tradition in the context of reconciliation, forgiveness and mercy. Some concrete attitudes that the pilgrim/missionary must assume during the pilgrimage are presented, with missiological notes that can be useful in missionary work both ad intra and ad extra.