Best of the Spectator
Holy Smoke, from the archives: An atheist goes on a Christian pilgrimage. Why?
Sep 1, 2024
Guy Stagg, a writer who embarked on a grueling pilgrimage to Jerusalem, shares his thrilling journey through perilous terrains, including a near-drowning incident in a Swiss river. He reflects on how this adventure transformed into a spiritual pilgrimage despite his atheism. Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie, joins to discuss his fascination with church architecture, revealing how his agnostic perspective still draws him to sacred spaces. They explore the emotional resonance of rituals and the complex relationship between spirituality and skepticism.
22:39
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Quick takeaways
- Guy Stagg's pilgrimage illustrates how non-believers can find personal meaning and healing through engagement in sacred rituals.
- The podcast highlights contemporary spiritual tourism, showing that modern pilgrimages often attract participants seeking deeper existential answers rather than traditional faith.
Deep dives
The Quest for Meaning Beyond Belief
Guy Stagg's pilgrimage journey highlights an intriguing phenomenon where individuals, despite lacking belief, seek meaning through sacred rituals. His expedition, inspired by a desire to heal from mental illness, led him to understand that religious experiences can hold significance even for non-believers. Stagg realized that engaging in religious rituals allowed him to cultivate humility and vulnerability, as he had to rely on the kindness of strangers. This experience illustrates that participants can find personal meaning in rituals, suggesting that the pursuit of spirituality does not necessitate traditional belief.
