Ryan Gibson ( outside reading- American Pilgrimage Sacred Journeys and spiritual destinations)

Another very popular pilgrimage from the book American Pilgrimage Sacred Journeys and spiritual destinations is The community of Jesus located in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This pilgrimage focuses more on social relationships and communal growth then Gethsemani. The authors describe this place by its “sacred essence that extends from a rare commitment to honesty, on both an individual and communal level, and to spiritual vulnerability as a catalyst to growth and astonishing creativity” (58). Like the quote says, this pilgrimage focuses primarily on the honest expression of individuals as a way to heal them. According to them, society has become a place full of lies and deceit and leaving that for a while to join a community of honesty can be a very healing experience. The communities retreat director, John French talks about the pilgrimage in the book stating, at the community, people see each other warts and all, the net result being “that all the creative energy that has been utilized to keep the real you hidden and under control is set free. Its perfectly amazing how much animation and strength can be released when people are willing to lay down the mask of perfection and experience gods love” (60). This great sense of community and brotherhood helps create an openminded environment optimal for spiritual growth.