Watch Sacred Journeys with Bruce Feiler

Sacred Journeys with Bruce Feiler is a captivating and thoughtful documentary series that follows author and adventurer Bruce Feiler as he embarks on spiritual pilgrimages to some of the most revered religious sites around the world. The show, which first aired on PBS in 2014, aims to explore the ways in which these ancient traditions are still integral to the lives of modern-day believers, and to shed light on the rich cultural and historical significance of these holy places.

Throughout the course of the series, Feiler travels to six different locations, each of which holds a special place in the hearts and minds of people of faith all over the world. He begins his journey in Lourdes, France, where he observes the miraculous healing powers that are said to be at work at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes. From there, he travels to Jerusalem, where he explores the tumultuous history of the city and its enduring importance to Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.

Next, Feiler heads to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, where he takes part in the annual Hajj pilgrimage and gains an intimate understanding of the faith and traditions of millions of Muslims from all over the world. He then travels to Varanasi, India, where he experiences the ancient Hindu rituals of death and reincarnation on the banks of the sacred Ganges River.

Feiler's journey continues to Japan, where he visits the secluded island of Shikoku and explores the centuries-old pilgrimage route known as the 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Finally, he returns to Europe, where he participates in the Christian tradition of walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain, tracing the footsteps of countless pilgrims who have made the journey before him.

Throughout his travels, Feiler is a humble and curious observer, allowing the people he meets to guide him through their own experiences and beliefs. He is deeply respectful of the cultures and traditions he encounters, and his immersive approach to storytelling makes for a truly engaging and enlightening viewing experience.

In each episode, Feiler is joined by a diverse group of fellow pilgrims, including monks, nuns, scholars, and everyday believers. Through their eyes, we are able to see the profound impact that these sacred sites have on people's lives, both in terms of their religious convictions and their personal emotions and struggles.

The show is beautifully shot, with stunning vistas and intimate moments captured in equal measure. From the crowded streets of Mecca to the peaceful hills of rural Japan, each location is presented with care and sensitivity, highlighting the unique beauty and significance of each site.

In addition to its evocative visuals, Sacred Journeys with Bruce Feiler also benefits from Feiler's own expertise as a writer and scholar. His insightful commentary and thoughtful reflections on the universal themes of faith, growth, and transformation are woven throughout each episode, providing a larger framework for the individual stories he encounters along the way.

Overall, Sacred Journeys with Bruce Feiler is a powerful and illuminating series that offers a rare glimpse into the heart of some of the world's most enduring religious traditions. Its universal themes of pilgrimage, devotion, and human connection make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of faith and culture in our modern world.

Sacred Journeys with Bruce Feiler is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between December 16, 2014 and on PBS