Graz, August 8, 2024 (KAP) The Franciscan Province of Austria and the Catholic Theological Faculty of the University of Graz are inviting people to a two-day symposium in Graz from October 28 to 29. Under the title “Rituals: Social Bond and Window to Meaning,” the phenomenon of ritual will be examined from various scientific and practical perspectives, according to a press release. The symposium aims to be a platform for an open interdisciplinary exchange between sociology, theology, religious studies and practice, according to the organizers. The aim is to examine the role of rituals in social, religious and cultural contexts and to shed light on their importance for cohesion and the structuring of life transitions.
“Rituals are more than just traditional actions. They offer stability and orientation in a constantly changing world,” explained Pablo Argarate, Dean of the Graz Theological Faculty. “Our symposium brings together experts to explore the diverse functions of rituals and open up new perspectives.”
The symposium will begin with a lecture by sociologist Katharina Scherke entitled “Social Bond: On the Function of Rituals”. On the second day, participants can expect lectures and workshops on topics such as “Rituals at sensitive cornerstones of life, illness, dying and death”, “Eating and drinking with Francis”, “Exorcism in Austria” and “Pilgrimage as an experience”. These practice-oriented units offer deep insights into the application and meaning of rituals in everyday life.
The symposium will take place on October 28 in the Aula of the University of Graz and on October 29, 2024 in the Franciscan Hall of the Franciscan monastery. Registration is possible via the website franziskaner.uni-graz.at.
The Franciscan Province of Austria dedicated to Saint Leopold in Austria and South Tyrol and the Catholic Theological Faculty of the University of Graz are the main organizers of this symposium. The two have been cooperating since 2008.
