23 questions to make a museum into a pilgrimage
- Aimee Boudreaux MacIver
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
This week, I'm taking a group to Washington, D.C., which hosts some of the best museums in the world. Even though I've visited the Smithsonian Museum complex about 25 times now, every year I look forward to exploring a little more deeply. From the Air and Space Museum to the National Gallery of Art to the Museum of Natural History to the Holocaust Memorial Museum, there's so much that sparks big and deep thoughts, even though none of it is directly sacred.
Make any place a pilgrimage
As they break through our usual routines, the treasures of our world's museums have a special way of opening us to the sacred. Connecting us with the riches of our universal Church. Carrying us closer to something higher, deeper, and wider. But it's not always a cathedral or a holy site that carries us to the sacred. Creation itself overflows with wonder, transcendence, and contemplation. Beauty always points to Beauty, to the One who loves us most.
How museums can offer sacred encounter
Whether your next museum visit is dedicated to history, art, science, or memorializing, be intentional about taking the opportunity to ponder, discuss, and pray. Our sacramental nature means anything sensory can become a source of contemplation and even revelation.
Questions for reflection in a museum
Human nature and purpose
Why do we keep things—why are we the only creatures that do this?
What does it truly mean to be human?
How do you think humans today are similar to or different from past civilizations?
When do you feel most alive or most yourself?
God and faith
How has God revealed Himself throughout history?
What do you imagine God dreams for you?
How do you see God: as a good Father, or something else?
What or who is the “king” of your heart?
What are you holding onto that God might be asking you to release?
How do the stories of others inspire or challenge your faith?
In what ways have you seen God’s providence in small moments of your life?
Joy, beauty, and desire
What are the deepest longings of your heart?
How is real joy different from fun, pleasure, or comfort?
Where or when have you experienced true joy?
What are some of the greatest imposters of joy in our culture?
What was the most beautiful thing you saw today, and how did it touch your heart?
What about you is beautiful?
Love, suffering, and sanctification
How is love connected to sacrifice?
Who and what are the foundations of your life?
Why do bad things happen?
How can hardships make us bitter—or better?
How does God use suffering for our good?
How can everyday experiences—work, travel, conversations—be encounters with the sacred?
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