It technicly doesn't make them closer to god. Every Muslim must fear god but still trust it. The pillars are a duty from god that we must follow. Fasting brings us together becuase people noramlly all get up around 4 to get breakfeast. Then pray. In the end of the day at Sunset they pray again and then eat. Most of the time most muslims go to our near by masjid. Normally we have lots of food there for everyone. The pillars are 1. The shahada. 2. Salah 3. zakat 4. Swam 5. Hajj. Every muslim must complete all pillars. Every muslim must do Hajj at least once in their life. We must fast as we must give out food to the poor. We have to donate zakat ( charity) To the ones in need. Salah the most important of all, everyday you must do 5 prayers. The shahada is what you say when the shaytan (satan) trys taking over you.
How do I know all of this? Rather not say but I'm one.