Pastoral do turismo: a hospitalidade no cenário da fé católica

Abstract

This thesis seeks to understand how the Pastoral Tourism (Pastur) in Salvador, Bahia, articulates its strategies to promote hospitality experiences in Catholic faith itineraries within the context of religious tourism. In this scenario, hospitality is a crucial element intertwined with spiritual values, shaping the experiences of visitors. The research, qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory in nature, was conducted through documentary, bibliographic, and participant analysis, complemented by semi-structured interviews and focus groups with representatives of the Church, the tourism sector, and visitors. Focusing on the faith itineraries implemented since 2017, such as the Arte e Fé, Caridade e Fé, and Conventos e Mosteiros itineraries, the research observes the hospitality practices and their implications in religious tourism. The results show that Pastur plays a fundamental role in harmonizing spiritual and economic interests, promoting hospitality that respects the domestic, social, and commercial aspects of the experience, according to Lashley’s theory. Additionally, the research highlights the challenges faced in implementing these practices, such as the need to balance the authenticity of experiences with commercial demands. The thesis concludes that Pastur's hospitality strategies in Salvador can serve as a model for other regions, demonstrating how the intersection between tourism and religion can contribute to sustainable development while enriching the spiritual experience of participants. In this context, hospitality, when adapted to the demands of tourism, emerges as a central practice that sustains and strengthens devotional traditions, maintaining the connection between visitors and sacred spaces, and driving economic and social development in the region.