Pilgrimages to Piekary Śląskie in the years 1946–1947 in the light of circulars of the Diocesan Curia in Katowice

The article presents the history of male pilgrimages to the sanctuary in Piekary Śląskie in the years 1946–1947. The men’s pilgrimage to Piekary Śląskie is one of the most important and characteristic of this religious centre. Its origins date back to 1946. The author discusses the circulars issued by the Diocesan Curia in Katowice concerning the organization and conduct of these pilgrimages, and presents their socio-political context. He analyses the content of the watchwords accompanying pilgrimages in various years to recognize and fathom the meaning of the messages flowing from this place in the politically difficult times of Communist Rule. It highlights the integration and social role of pilgrimages to Piekary Śląskie, the care of Silesian bishops for the revival of the pilgrimage movement and the shaping of proper religious and social attitudes of the faithful.

The article presents the history of male pilgrimages to the sanctuary in Piekary Śląskie in the years 1946–1947. The men’s pilgrimage to Piekary Śląskie is one of the most important and characteristic of this religious centre. Its origins date back to 1946. The author discusses the circulars issued by the Diocesan Curia in Katowice concerning the organization and conduct of these pilgrimages, and presents their socio-political context. He analyses the content of the watchwords accompanying pilgrimages in various years to recognize and fathom the meaning of the messages flowing from this place in the politically difficult times of Communist Rule. It highlights the integration and social role of pilgrimages to Piekary Śląskie, the care of Silesian bishops for the revival of the pilgrimage movement and the shaping of proper religious and social attitudes of the faithful.