On the Importance of Communicationsin the Field of Pilgrimage and Religious Tourism as a Social and Communication Institution

Abstract

Pilgrimage is a social communication institution that plays a vital role in forming and strengthening social ties and communication among people. This form of travel has deep roots in religious traditions and reflects the human need for spirituality and the search for meaning in life. Pilgrimage involves traveling with the specific purpose of visiting a holy place or shrine to seek spiritual refreshment, appeal to higher powers, and perform religious rites or penance. This creates favorable conditions for interaction among people who share common beliefs and values. As a social communication institution, pilgrimage contributes to the formation of group identity and community, as people engaged in pilgrimage feel part of a larger community that unites their faith and goals. They communicate, share experiences, meet new people, and interact with residents and other pilgrims, which promotes the exchange of ideas, views, and mutual understanding. Additionally, pilgrimage creates opportunities for the development of social and communication skills. By interacting with different people, pilgrims learn to show tolerance, mutual respect, empathy, and understanding of other cultures and traditions. They acquire the skills of effective communication, the ability to listen and understand others, as well as identify themselves as part of the community. Therefore, pilgrimage, as a social and communication institution, promotes interaction between people, the formation of communities, and the development of social and communication skills. It creates a unique opportunity for communication, exchange of experience and knowledge, as well as deepening of spiritual development and enrichment of the life experience of each pilgrim.