65

Drawing on a few specific examples, the article traces some of the main features of popular religion. The latter is deeply rooted in history and in people’s mentalities. It is characterised by a strong involvement of the person - as an integral being made up of body and soul -- as well as of social groups in a variety of different forms: prayer groups, pious associations, confraternities, pilgrims, etc. It is a phenomenon at risk of superstitious excesses or of being instrumentalised for other ends. Despite the avatars of history, the various forms of popular religion have endured over time.The article goes on to offer a series of interpretations of popular religion, in this case in southern Italy. Some research has shown that popular religion has offered a resistance both to ecclesial institutions and to the affirmations of the Enlightenment. Other scholars argue, on the contrary, that expressions of popular religion have been controlled entirely by the clergy. Still others stress the duality that exists between parishes on the one hand, and sanctuaries on the other.The various forms of popular religion call for a theological discernment and an appropriate pastoral response. We need, in this regard, to put behind us the opposition of faith/religion: popular religion is certainly not devoid of authentic faith. Popular devotions can mature and grow thanks to an inculturated liturgy. It is important to promote the plurality of the faces of Christianity, and given people the necessary space for subjectivity. In this way, we will be able to bring out the positive aspects of popular religiosity.