Pilgrim Baptism. An Initiation Rite in the Hungarian Catholic Paraliturgy
Pilgrim Baptism. An Initiation Rite in the Hungarian Catholic Paraliturgy
Author(s): Gábor BarnaSubject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Customs / Folklore, Recent History (1900 till today), Cultural Anthropology / Ethnology, 17th Century, 18th Century, 19th Century
Published by: Hrvatsko etnološko društvo
Keywords: pilgrim baptism; Hungary; Catholicism; initiation rite; special form of fictive kinship;
Summary/Abstract: Pilgrimages consist of several separated customs, acts and purification rites i.e. the pilgrim baptism. This rite is known only at those places of pilgrimage where so called sacred springs or wells can be found. The person who visits the shrine for the first time can be baptised by a chosen godparent. This rite is not only a symbolic act of purification but a symbolic initiation to the pilgrimage. Pilgrim baptism also built a special form of fictive kinship between the two people concerned.
Journal: Etnološka tribina : Godišnjak Hrvatskog etnološkog društva
- Issue Year: 25/1995
- Issue No: 18
- Page Range: 91-102
- Page Count: 12
- Language: English