why did they sent her alone?

Hi .It's just a few days that i have begun to see Bergman movies and to know about this master of cinema. I watched "The Virgin Spring" just now. very great and impressive one-beyond my expectation from a classic Scandinavian movie.
but i just have one question: why did the father (Max Von Sydow) sent "Karin" alone? why didn't he accompany a man or some men with her?(or he himself didn't go with her to the church)? Is it a religious thing? (I'm not christian) or has another reason? your replies would be welcome :D