On the Journey Together, with Ian McIntosh

In this conversation, I talk with Ian McIntosh about the evolution and significance of the Sacred Journeys conferences. We also reflect on the emotional and historical aspects of battlefield pilgrimages, particularly in relation to war memorials and personal histories, interfaith pilgrimages, and how such connections foster peace, compassion and shared understanding. We delve into the multifaceted nature of pilgrimage, Ian’s work around the rights of Indigenous Australians, and his fascination with labyrinths. The discussion also touches on emerging trends in pilgrimage studies, including the impact of virtual pilgrimages and the quest for peace in a world marked by conflict.

Takeaways:

*The Sacred Journeys conferences have grown significantly, attracting both repeat and new visitors.*

*Pilgrimages can be explored from various disciplinary perspectives, highlighting their wide appeal.*

*Visiting battlefields evokes profound emotional responses and personal connections to history.*

*The differences between Commonwealth and American cemeteries reflect varying cultural approaches to memorialization.*

*Personal stories of ancestors can deepen the experience of battlefield pilgrimages.*

*Pilgrimages can serve as peaceful gatherings that can promote reconciliation and understanding.*

*Interfaith pilgrimages can foster social cohesion and challenge sectarian divides.*

*The Sacred Journeys project emerged from a visioning initiative focused on peace and prosperity in the Middle East.*

*The act of pilgrimage symbolizes life's journey and shared human experiences. *

*Pilgrimage symbolizes a common journey for all.*

*Creating community is essential in pilgrimage experiences.*

*The Sacred Journeys Conference fosters collaboration among scholars.*

*Pilgrimage in the U.S. includes civil religion and sacred sites.*

*Advocacy for Indigenous rights is a crucial aspect of McIntosh's work.*

*Australia is seeing a rise in pilgrimage interest.*

*Emerging trends in pilgrimage studies include virtual experiences.*

*Labyrinths hold historical and spiritual significance.*

*Peace and compassion are vital themes in pilgrimage.*

*The journey of life can be viewed as a pilgrimage.*

Australian anthropologist and peace scholar Ian S. McIntosh ([e-mail]) is the founder of the Sacred Journeys Network (www.theCN.com/2014), which brings pilgrimage and religious tourism scholars together from across the world for an annual conference. He has co-edited four volumes on pilgrimage and religious tourism including “The Many Voices of Pilgrimage and Reconciliation”, “Peace Journeys,” “New Pilgrimage Trails and Routes” and “Pilgrimage in the Twenty-First Century: A Kaleidoscopic Inquiry.” He has also authored three books on Indigenous Australian religion and culture. Additionally, Dr. McIntosh is the founder of both the Indianapolis Spiritual Trail and the Australian heritage group, Past Masters International.

Dr. McIntosh is the Director of International Partnerships at Indiana University (Indianapolis). He is also an adjunct professor in the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy where he teaches Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Philanthropy, and the IUPUI School of Liberal Arts where he teaches Pilgrimage in World Religions. He has led study abroad programs in multiple countries (including Costa Rica, Australia, Eswatini and Kenya).