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Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

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• Guadalupe Pilgrimage Hotels
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• Mexico Food and Faith Pilgrimage Hotels
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• Hotels for Food and Faith Pilgrimage Tours in Spain and Portugal
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Holy Land Pilgrimage & Jerusalem Pilgrimage

Nothing brings the Gospels to life like a Catholic Holy Land Pilgrimage Tour to the Holy Land with a Jerusalem stay in 2024 or 2025. During this pilgrimage to Jerusalem and Israel, you will walk in the Footsteps of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and the Apostles, visiting and celebrating daily Mass in the most important Shrines and Basilicas of Christianity. You will visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, where the Angel of the Lord appeared to the Virgin Mary, and she professed her Magnificat. You will visit Bethlehem and celebrate the birth of Christ at the Church of the Nativity .  During this Holy Land Pilgrimage tour, you will have the opportunity to renew your baptismal vows at the Jordon River and your wedding vows in Cana, where Jesus performed His first Miracle. You will spend two days around the Sea of Galilee where Jesus began His ministry, preaching to thousands as He gave His sermon on the Mount of Beatitudes, and miraculously fed the multitudes with fish and loaves of bread. The highlight of the Holy Land Pilgrimage Tour will be in pilgrimage to Jerusalem where you will pray in the Garden of Gethsemane and experience the Lord’s Passion along the Via Dolorosa , also known as the Way of the Cross, on the way to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre which marks the place where Jesus was put to death on Calvary, and was buried and rose again! Visits to Mount Tabor,  Sepphoris , Bethany, and Jericho are just some of the other places that you will visit on this Holy Land Pilgrimage Tour. For a wonderful reading of Holy Land Pilgrimage tour guidelines issued by the USCCB click here.   Why don’t you go ahead and book the Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour for 2024 or 2025 today?

Catholic Journeys — The only pilgrimage tour company 100% Catholic owned and operated with a priest on staff.

A pilgrimage to the Holy Land is a special time of spiritual journey for Christians. It is a time when we recommit ourselves to living a Christian life as a life of pilgrimage.   —  United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

The video below shows some stops on this Jerusalem pilgrimage:

Tour Details for Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage

Departure & return location.

Your  local airport of choice  —  Or you can choose land only and make your own flight arrangements.

Departure Time

Arrive for Check-in 3 Hours Before Flight Time

Price Includes

• Air fares - Round trip airfare listed below Airfare is included for most major airports
• 1 Checked Bag with Airlines
• Hotel Accommodations - First Class 4 and 5-Star Hotels with Porterage
• Meals - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Daily Wine & mineral water with dinners
• All transportation in destination location Airconditioned Motor Coach with Bottled Water and WiFi available onboard
• Tour Guide - Professional English Speaking Guides -- always Catholic
• Entrance Fees - Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary Whisper Headsets where needed
• Catholic Priest, Daily Mass and Spiritual Activities Coordinated

Price Excludes

• Travel Insurance -- optional but recommended
• Gratuities for Guides and Drivers
• Baggage Fees for airlines if applicable
• Fees for Seat Assignments or upgrades, if applicable
• Private airport transfers when selecting Land Only and arranging your own flights.
• Any Personal Expenses

Complimentaries

• Name and Luggage tags
• Neck Wallet

Itinerary for Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

Day 1 depart for tel aviv.

Day 2 Tel Aviv - Overnight on the Mediterranean Coast

Day 3 En route to Galilee: Caesarea - Mt Carmel - Stella Maris - Carmelites - Cana - Nazareth - Basilica of the Annunciation

Day 4 Ministry of Christ in Galilee: Tiberias - Boat ride - Sea of Galilee - Capernaum - Mt. Beatitudes - Caesarea Philippi

Day 5 Mt Tabor - Sepphoris - Jerusalem

Day 6 Jerusalem the Holy City - Bethlehem the Nativity - Mt Olives - Church of Visitation - Shepherd’s Fields - Church of the Nativity

Day 7 Jerusalem: The Passion of Jesus' Last Hours: - Bethany, Mt Olives, Palm Sunday, Dominus Flevit, Gethsemane, Cave of Betrayal, Cave of Assumption, Pater Noster

Day 8 Stations of the Cross - Church of the Holy Sepulchre - St Anne’s Church - Ecce Homo - Western Wall - Upper Room - Dormition Abbey

Day 9 The Wilderness - Bethany - Jericho - Mt Temptation - Dead Sea

Day 10 Jerusalem - Return Home

Your Holy Land and Jerusalem pilgrimage comes to an end.  Today you will board your flight(s) home.

Dates & Pricing

Dates, pricing & booking holy land & jerusalem pilgrimage tour, map of holy land and jerusalem pilgrimage tour.

Photos of the Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

Travel Insurance for Holy Land and Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

Travel Insurance for a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and Israel — is recommended

Click here for insurance plans including Cancel for Any Reason Coverage for a pilgrimage to Israel.

FAQ about the Holy Land and Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

What hotels will we be staying at for the Holy Land Jerusalem Pilgrimage?

For a list of the 4 and 5-Star hotels we typically use including the famous Notre Dame Center for the Holy Land Jerusalem Pilgrimage click here.

Do I need an electrical adapter in Israel?    Yes, you will need an adapter for a pilgrimage to Israel .

Is a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Jerusalem important?  For additional information for pilgrims to the Holy Land please click here.

Have the Bishops said anything about a pilgrimage to the Holy Land?   For Holy Land Pilgrimage Guidelines from the United States Catholic Bishops click here.

Are your guides Catholic?  All of our guides are Roman Catholic!  Absolutely!  We are the only pilgrimage tour agency with a Roman Catholic priest on staff!

How do I meet up with the group if I make my own flight arrangements? 

Arrival times vary between dates and within pilgrimages.  If you make your own flight arrangements, we can arrange a private transfer from Ben Gurion Tel Aviv airport to the group hotel for $100 per person.  We can also arrange a return transfer to the airport at the end of your pilgrimage for $100 per person.  We recommend using our transfer service because they are known and trusted drivers.  As soon as you have your flight information, email Marcelle .

Would you like to lead your parish or group on this pilgrimage?   Click Here to get started.

Do you have other pilgrimage tours to the Holy Land?   Yes!  See our Holy Land Pilgrimage with Jordan and Petra Tour. Prices start at $3,199.  We also have the delectable Holy Land Pilgrimages to Israel featuring Foodies Tours designed for Catholic Foodies.  We also have our brand new budget-friendly Holy Land Pilgrimage with Bethlehem Stay.

Do you have FAQs for airlines, passports, vaccinations, travel insurance, tipping, packing, mobility, and others?   Yes. FAQ for all Catholic Journeys Pilgrimage Tours

Can I obtain Cancel for Any Reason Coverage for a pilgrimage to Israel?  Yes! Click here for insurance plan details — see the Select Plan with CFAR upgrade.

Related Tours

Fr. Dan Dashner

Each day, early in the morning on this Holy Land Pilgrimage we were off and running. The driver of the van was a very safe and considerate driver who not only ensured that we arrived at all our assigned destinations on time, but he also ensured that there was plenty of water for all of us to drink as the weather was very hot and we needed to constantly hydrate our bodies. All Holy Site visits were well-planned, and our tour guide was well known by the guards and site coordinators and several occasions we were even granted head of line privileges.

Every day of our journey was fruitful and fulfilling and we were given the opportunity to visit and spend ample time at each site identified in the Catholic Journey Pilgrimage Brochure. In fact, we even visited some sites that were not scheduled and not offered in the itinerary. Confession and spiritual direction were announced as available and was provided as requested and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was celebrated each day with the group. Every morning, on the tour motor coach, I led a recitation of The Holy Rosary or the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Everybody joined in and I’m sure that our pilgrimage was blessed and especially protected by the Blessed Virgin Mother of God because during this pilgrimage, I was hit from behind by an electric motor bike. However, I was not seriously hurt and there were no injuries to the operator of the electric motor bike.

On the last day of the pilgrimage to Jerusalem, we went to the Via Dolorosa, and I led stations of the cross all the way to Golgotha where I was privileged to offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

This Holy Land Pilgrimage was a dream come true for me because when I was ordained to the presbyterate, I was scheduled to go to the Holy Land This trip was on my bucket list of things I wanted to do and an answer to my prayer. Due to our very close group interaction and relationships, we developed with each other, we now have new spiritual families (members of our pilgrimage group). Each of the nine members of our group have called or texted me and each other and assured us of their prayers & support.

Words cannot express my gratitude to Catholic Journeys for giving me this great opportunity to go on pilgrimage to the Holy Land as group Spiritual Director. I commend Catholic Journeys for hiring knowledgeable guides and skilled driver for these pilgrimages. May God continue to Bless & Protect You and All Pilgrims that make this Extraordinary Journey to the Holy Land through Catholic Journeys.

Reverend Father Daniel L. Dashner,

Patrick and Linda

We went on pilgrimage to the Holy Land on 9/17 and returned 9/26. We celebrated our 30th Anniversary first by renewing our vows in Cana and spending last full day on our actual Anniversary with a special Mass at Golgotha and a visit to the Tomb.

Our guide was an extraordinary mix of historian, geography, religion and Shepherd! He kept us all safe and taken care of whatever we needed.

Our Priest, Father Dan, is now the head of our Pilgrimage Family and we are grateful to God and everyone at Catholic Journeys for making this possible!

The pilgrimage to Jerusalem and the Holy Land was wonderful and David, our guide, was fantastic. I was amazed at his knowledge and wish I could have recorded the entire trip. Unfortunately I became ill on the flight over so wasn’t able to fully enjoy trip. Sadly I have been diagnosed with cancer and would appreciate prayers. My roommate was also wonderful to me. Please add me to your prayer list. ✝️🙏🙏🙏🙏

Margaret and Richard

Our pilgrimage to the Holy Land was amazing. Everything was perfect from the time we were picked up at the airport until the day we departed. We had the best tour guide David. I felt blessed each day by his vast amount of knowledge. We were able to gain access to the most beautiful basilicas and had Mass each day. I felt very cared for and safe the entire pilgrimage. I would recommend Catholic Journey to everyone who is considering a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

The pilgrimage to Jerusalem and the Holy Land was awesome despite the heat. Our guide was a wealth of knowledge. David, our tour guide was so passionate about his country and so willing to share his knowledge.

Holy Land Pilgrimage Guidelines

• Middle East

Office/Committee

• International Justice and Peace

Year Published

December 2008 (revised November 2015) Print Ready Guidelines

Pilgrimage - A Spiritual Journey

Solidarity with holy land christians, ties to the jewish community, ties to the muslim community, practical issues.

• The Holy Land – Contacts for U.S. Pilgrims

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Interreligious Ties

Knowledge of key concern.

A pilgrimage is not a political exercise, but pilgrims to the Holy Land ought to have an opportunity to understand the suffering of a local Church caught in the midst of conflict and the work of the Catholic Church for justice and peace in the Holy Land. Materials from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on peace between Israelis and Palestinians should be made available. Any pilgrimage should be a journey of faith and a prayerful search for justice and peace in the land that is holy to us. Many pilgrims are moved to work for justice and peace upon their return.

• Pilgrimage should be planned and carried out as a genuinely religious exercise in the spirit of prayer, with reverent openness to the workings of the Spirit and  the possibilities of conversion of life. Accordingly, pilgrimage differs from religious tourism and study tours of the Holy Land.
• Pilgrims should be led by an accredited spiritual animator or licensed guide who  appreciates and respects the Christian tradition and pilgrimage as a  distinctive religious undertaking. There are Church-authorized and  government-recognized pilgrimage animators. While, for the spiritual purposes of  pilgrimage, Catholic or Christian animators or guides are  preferable, when they are not available, non-Christian guides should be supplemented with approved chaplains and spiritual directors. Be aware that in addition to licensed Israeli (Jewish and Arab) guides, certified Palestinian guides are now available for areas under Palestinian control.   (Unfortunately, no reciprocity agreements are yet in effect with Israel.)   Many of these guides have trained at the Holy See's Bethlehem University.
• Pilgrimages should be planned and conducted with ample opportunity for prayer, celebration of the Sacraments, and personal and group reflection. The  spiritual atmosphere of a pilgrimage can be enhanced by the simplicity and  quiet of pilgrim hostels as opposed to the busyness of commercial hotels.
• Care should be taken, with advanced planning, for the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy, the Sacraments, and special events such as the renewal of baptismal and marriage vows.
• The pilgrimage experience is enhanced by liturgical and devotional music. Groups should identify musicians and song leaders, and select music or hymnals in advance. Musical tapes can help preserve a sense of prayer on longer bus rides.
• The Holy Places that are staffed by the Franciscans will have specialized sacramentaries and lectionaries adapted to the memory of the people and events associated with the site. In addition, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has local liturgical books with Masses commemorating many pilgrims, hermits, penitents and other holy men and women who journeyed to the Holy Land or made it their home. These may also be a source of inspiration for pilgrims and may be obtained from the Chancery of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
• Commercial contacts should be carefully limited with a view to retaining the religious intention of pilgrimage. Pilgrims can lend support to the local economy, but shopping ought not to become a preoccupation. Group leaders should prearrange a limited number of scheduled shopping times and/or allow free time for activities not essential to journeying as pilgrims.
• Catholic pilgrims are encouraged to show their solidarity with the local Church in the Holy Land by becoming acquainted with the faithful, by being attentive to their stories, and by sharing their living faith.
• Catholic Relief Services has created outreach programs for pilgrims and the Pontifical Mission of CNEWA revived its programs. These  offices can help orient American pilgrims and assist them in making contact with local Christians, along with Muslims and Jews. They can also assist groups in making contact with local organizations, especially related to peace, justice and development issues.
• We encourage parish groups to meet with the parishes of the local Church in its different forms, especially Latin and Greek Melkite Catholics; likewise, diocesan groups, priests and religious should endeavor to make contact with local Church leaders and their institutions. Arrangements may be made through Catholic Relief Services' Outreach Office and the Pontifical Mission Office. The Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center and the Catholic Information Center can also be helpful.
• When planning your pilgrimage, obtain a copy of the calendar of events  sponsored by the Office of the Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries of the Holy Land ( @email ), which is located at the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center.
• Ecclesial solidarity will also mean learning about issues of justice and peace from Palestinians, Israelis, Christians, Jews, and Muslims.
• When visiting or meeting with local Christians, explore ways to establish sustained relations between your parish or diocese and Catholic parishes, Catholic institutions (including the justice and peace commission), and the local Catholic hierarchy.
• The spirit of dialogue especially recommends making serious efforts to come to know the life and aspirations of Jewish communities in Israel. Therefore,  pilgrims should try to engage in interfaith dialogue with Jews. The Interreligious Coordinating Council in Israel (ICCI) maintains offices in Jerusalem which offer opportunities for learning about interreligious dialogue in the Holy Land, identifying speakers for pilgrim groups, and  learning about lectures and discussions during pilgrims' stays.
• Visit the shrines and historic places of the Jewish people, such as the Western Wall, and the ancient synagogues at Capernaum and Nazareth. Visits to these sites can be occasions for prayerful understanding of the Jewish culture of Jesus' time and the Jewish roots of our Christian faith. A visit to Yad Vashem, the Israeli Holocaust Memorial, also would be important as a sign of respect and solidarity. Pilgrims should know that the Church disputes the way Pope Pius XII is depicted in the Museum.
• Take advantage of lectures, symposia and other events sponsored by institutions such as the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center.
• Visit Muslim holy sites and meet with Muslim religious leaders. The CRS Outreach Office and the Pontifical Mission Office can be helpful in arranging meetings with Muslim groups and visits to religious sites, such as the Haram el Sharif (the Dome of the Rock) and the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
• Visit a Muslim village and meet the people, especially where Catholic Relief Services, the Pontifical Mission, or the Franciscans are sponsoring a project.
• Participate in Jewish-Christian-Muslim dialogue events at the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center.
• Many Christian institutions will provide meals for pilgrims, the income from which helps support their operations. Plan in advance to take meals in hospices, orphanages, or schools, or take your accommodations with them.
• Where possible, pilgrims are encouraged to visit programs supported by the U.S. Catholic Church: the Pontifical Mission, Catholic Relief Services, and Bethlehem University. With a hotel training program, the university can provide meals as well as a chance to meet with Palestinian students and faculty from the West Bank, Jerusalem and Gaza. This can be easily achieved and incorporated into one's itinerary.
• Guides and tour agencies will be alert to security concerns. The U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Consulate in Jerusalem also issue alerts which can be helpful in planning and executing your pilgrimage. In general, keep to tour buses and avoid public transport (buses).
• If your guide does not want to enter certain areas, inquire about reasons. Has there been a recent disturbance? Is a disturbance expected today? Be aware that some guides will be averse, solely for ideological reasons, to entering some areas. If a pattern of comments seems to suggest that this reluctance is ideologically based, consult with his superiors, CRS or the Pontifical Mission, or with local Christian leaders for advice. While not taking  unnecessary risks, the religious goals of the pilgrimage, including solidarity and reconciliation, would suggest crossing over boundaries when possible.
• Without prejudice to others, be attentive to opportunities to support known Christian businesses, including Christian travel agencies and guides. The  majority of Christians in the Holy Land are poor and economically disadvantaged. Patronizing their businesses can be an act of solidarity with a Church seriously threatened by emigration. Such business contributes to the economic development of Arab Christian communities and helps retain the threatened Catholic presence in the Holy Land.

The Holy Land - Contacts for U.S. Pilgrims - Updated October 2015

Sponsored by the Vatican, chartered in the U.S., and staffed by the Brothers of Christian Schools (De La Salle Christian Brothers), Bethlehem University offers higher education opportunities to Palestinians and Arab Israelis, both Christian and Muslim. Tourism and hotel management programs permit the university to host pilgrim groups, providing lunch as well as meetings and discussions with students and faculty.

Catholic Relief Services Outreach Office P.O. Box 19447 91193 Jerusalem Contact: Hanan Nasrallah, Project Officer Matt Davis, Country Representative Tel: 011-972-2-656-9240 Fax: 011-972-2-656-9243 E-mail: @email

Set up to assist U.S. pilgrims, the CRS Outreach Office can provide background briefings, contacts with local Catholic, Muslim and Jewish groups; instruction on justice, peace and development issues; and site visits to U.S. Catholic Church-sponsored projects in nearby villages.

Christian Information Center (CIC) P.O. Box 14308 (Jaffa Gate - Old City) Jerusalem 91142 Contact: Rev. Fr. Athanasius O.F.M., Director Tel: 011-972-2-627-2692 Fax: 011-972-2-628-6417 E-mail: @email Website: www.cicts.org

Operated by Franciscans, CIC provides information on religious events throughout the country. They have opening hours, mass schedules and addresses for major religious institutions; provide travel details for buses, taxis, etc. to locations around the country; sell books, maps, travel guides; and arrange for masses in the Holy Sepulchre and other sites.

Custos of the Holy Land P.O. Box 186 Jerusalem 9100101 Tel: 011-972-2-626-6561 Email: @email Website:  www.custodia.org The Custos, Franciscan friars designated by the Holy See to have "custody" of the holy places, promote pilgrimages and offer itineraries and proposals and practical information useful in planning journeys of faith.  They can help coordinate and direct the reception of pilgrims at the Holy Shrines, offering spaces of prayer and making available Franciscan centers of hospitality (hostels) for those on pilgrimages organized by them.

ICCI is an umbrella organization of institutions and individuals that seek to promote interreligious and intercultural understanding within Israeli society.

Middle East Council of Churches P.O. Box 14634 - Jerusalem Liaison Office Jerusalem 91146 Tel: 011-972-2-628-44931 Fax: 011-972-2-626-4730 Website: https://www.mec-churches.org/main_eng.htm

The office can provide invaluable information regarding events, contacts, and issues related to ecumenical and interfaith relationships in the Holy Land.

Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center P.O. Box 20531 Paratroopers Road #3 Jerusalem 91204 Contact: Fr. Juan María Solana, L.C., Director Tel: 011-972-2-627-9111 Fax: 011-972-2-627-1995 E-mail: @email Website: www.notredamecenter.org

Located just outside the Old City, Notre Dame is a Vatican pilgrims' hospice and a major meeting place for Christians visiting Jerusalem, often hosting ecumenical, interreligious and cultural events. Evening Prayer and Mass are offered daily in their chapel.

Pontifical Mission P.O. Box 19642 Jerusalem 91196 Contact: Mr. Sami El-Yousef, Regional Director Tel: 011-972-2-627-2126 Fax: 011-972-2-627-3777 E-mail: @email Website: www.pontificalmission-jerusalem.org

Founded in 1949 to assist refugees and displaced persons, the Mission is administered by the Catholic Near East Welfare Association.  It supports charitable, medical, educational and cultural programs, including schools for the handicapped and the deaf in Bethlehem.  It promotes Christian unity and fraternal relations with non-Christians, advocates for human rights for all, and seeks to raise consciousness about the churches and people of the East.

Saint Peter Gallicantu Church – Mt. Zion Gate P.O. Box 31653 9131601 Jerusalem Contact: Ma-aleh Hashalom Tel: 011-972-2-673-1739 / 673-7420 Fax: 011-972-2-672-6991 Email: @email Website: www.assomption.org/fr/oeuvres/pelerinage/saint-pierre-en-gallicante

Beautifully restored, Saint Peter is the traditional site of Jesus' imprisonment and Peter's denial. Run by the Fathers and Oblate Sisters of the Assumption, the Church offers handicap access, rest facilities and an amphitheater for use by large groups, as well as basic accommodations (minimum 3 night stay). The gift shop offers religious and artistic items fashioned by local religious communities.

Tantur Ecumenical Institute Rehov HaRosmarin at the corner of Derech Hevron P.O. Box 11381 9111301 Jerusalem Tel: 011-972-2-542-2900 Fax: 011-972-2-676-0914 Email: @email Website: https://tantur.org Situated on a hill overlooking the road from Jerusalem to Bethlehem, the Institute serves as a place of learning, prayer and hospitality for visitors from all over the world. A frequent host of pilgrimages and retreats, Tantur also offers Continuing Education and Sabbatical Programs. Each program includes a variety of lectures and excursions designed to introduce participants to its geography, history, complex religious life, local people and the Bible. It has one of the best theological libraries, an auditorium and numerous seminar rooms to hold events.

Call to speak with us!  (201) 627-0117

THE HOLY LAND  THE FIFTH GOSPEL

Israel is a land, a mystery, about people, about nations, about our god.

Israel is the most coveted land in the world. Why? The Bible tells us the reasons. To visit Israel is to take a “Biblical Journey!” Think about it. Some legends say Creation occurred in Israel. Jerusalem is the city where God chose to put His name (1 Chronicles 6:6). The land flows with truth concerning Scripture truth and is called by many, the “Fifth Gospel.” From the histories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, King David and of Israel to the clear truths concerning the Messiah, our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. It is all a part of the journey. You will delve into the truths as you learn from some traditions and historical teachings from thousands of years, but most of all from the Holy Bible. You will walk where Jesus walked, learn of the homeland for the Christian faith, and return home, never to be the same again! It is in the Land of the Bible where both prophecy and present application of Scriptures become more clear. With us, our genuine desire is for you to take a Biblical Journey. 

Journey to the Holy Land 2024

February 25 - march 8, 2024.

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Experiencing the Holy Land will forever change your understanding of scripture, bringing it to life in 3D and giving you Biblical context and clarity like you never imagined. We will travel the land of Old Testament greats- including Abraham, Joshua, King David, and the prophet Elijah — and you’ll never be the same after standing atop Mount Nebo, the very place where God showed Moses the sprawling Promised Land. Walking where Jesus walked during his New Testament ministry will leave you more spiritually alive than ever before. After visiting Israel, it’s almost a guarantee that you’ll want to come back again, bringing every believer you know!

P.O. Box 118696 Carrollton, TX 75011 [email protected]

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Traveling as a Christian group is a great act of solidarity in faith with your Christian community, and a rewarding experience you’ll never forget.

Ten Day Holy Land Tour

Walk where jesus walked on an experience of a lifetime..

1 Peter 5:2-4

Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers-not because you must, but because you are willing.

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Christian Leaders and Christian Community Organizers' step by step guide on how to begin your own Holy Land group tour.

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Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus

Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to witness the events of the Gospels? Imagine being in the boat with the disciples on the Sea of Galilee when Jesus spoke to the storm or standing on the Mount of Olives beside a weeping Jesus. Although going back in time is not possible, you can go where the events of the Bible took place - the Holy Land.

A Holy Land Experience will:

• Bring the Bible to life
• Inspire passionate faith & Christian living
• Enrich preaching and teaching
• Energize the call to ministry
• Enhance knowledge and understanding of the contemporary culture and issues

EO Tours will help you discover the blessing of visiting the Holy Land. For over 45 years, we have served the Christian community by providing quality Christian travel programs at affordable prices to the Holy Land and other Bible Lands locations. Travel with EO Tours on one of the hundreds of scheduled departures, or customize a travel plan for your group.

Quickly Compare Holy Land Itineraries

With nine standard itineraries and a few specialty itineraries from time to time, we know it can get confusing when you're deciding which one to book. That's why we've created a comparison chart.

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Follow EO Tours on Facebook , Instagram or at www.eoupdate.com to see testimonies and pictures from EO travelers in the Holy Land and other locations around the world.

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Living Stones | 2024

Celebrations in the Holy Land: Bethlehem | Dec. 10, 2024

Celebrations in the Holy Land: Jerusalem | Dec. 10, 2024

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Prepare for a memorable and life-changing pilgrimage

The Holy Land: An Encounter with Jesus Christ includes a twelve-part video series filmed in the Holy Land that introduces and brings to life the main events and sites of the life of Jesus Christ.

Through spiritual reflections and images, viewers are transported to the Holy Land to learn about the events that took place at the holy sites, how to pray there, and how to follow and enter more deeply into the life of Jesus, preparing them for their own encounter with Christ.

You can view the videos below. You can also purchase the DVD by clicking the link.

Series Introduction

Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Nativity & Presentation of Jesus Christ

Baptism of Jesus Christ and Proclamation of the Kingdom of God

Transfiguration of Jesus Christ

Institution of the Holy Eucharist and Pentecost

The Passion of Jesus Christ

Death, Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Prepare for a memorable and life-changing pilgrimage to the Holy Land. If you have any comments or questions, please use the form below to contact us.

Midwest Theological Forum 4340 Cross St., Set 1 Downers Grove, IL 60515-1715

Tel: 630-541-8519 Fax: 331-777-5819

[email protected] www.theologicalforum.org

The Holy Land: An Encounter with Jesus Christ is a comprehensive resource for all who are seeking to make a memorable and life-changing pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Clicking on the products below will redirect you to the product page on Midwest Theological Forum.

The Holy Land: An Encounter with Jesus Christ

Pilgrim handbook order from mtf.

Hardcover | 554 pages | $36.00

ebook options: Apple | Google | Kindle

Missalette Order from MTF

Paperback | 254 pages | $14.00

Video Series DVD Order from MTF

DVD | 37 minutes | $10.00

Pilgrim Kit Order from MTF

3 items | $42.00

Life of Jesus Order from MTF

Hardcover | 624 pages | $35.00

Preparing for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land is not the same as preparing for a typical vacation. A pilgrimage to the Holy Land is not only an opportunity to see the historical sites but also a time for prayer and conversion. It is an opportunity to grow closer to Jesus Christ by bringing to life what we read in the Gospel.

From Midwest Theological Institute and St. Josemaria Institute, The Holy Land: An Encounter with Jesus Christ is a comprehensive resource for all who are seeking to make a memorable and life-changing pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

With our pilgrim handbook, video series, and missalette, you will be equipped to experience and appreciate more profoundly the holy sites and places to be visited on a typical itinerary in the footsteps of Jesus Christ through Israel and Palestine. You will also be guided on how to make time for prayer, spiritual reading, and silent reflection, which are so important and necessary on this spiritual pilgrimage.

The Holy Land: An Encounter with Jesus Christ features the following:

Pilgrim Handbook

Video series, pilgrim kit.

The Holy Land: An Encounter with Jesus Christ Pilgrim Handbook is an essential guide for making a pilgrimage and praying at the holy sites. The handbook features historical information, Gospel readings, spiritual meditations, reflection questions, prayers, and photographs for the main holy sites to help you have a profound encounter with Christ before , during , and after the pilgrimage.

As you visit each holy site, the handbook will help you to prepare your heart for the graces of your pilgrimage:

• A remembrance of the landmarks: What did you see? What happened in this place? What physical details will you remember about this place? What are you going to tell your family and friends about this place?
• Inspirations and Intentions: What did you hear? What did you learn? Whom and what did you pray for?
• Resolutions: What is God asking of you? From what you learned in this place, draw simple conclusions that will help you in your spiritual life.

At the end of your pilgrimage, the handbook will be a keepsake of your memories of the profound personal experience of meeting Jesus Christ in the same places where his first disciples did over 2000 years ago. And, your pilgrimage will become an unforgettable journey that will help to deepen and nourish your relationship with God for the rest of your life.

Product Images

The video series is a production of Midwest Theological Forum and the St. Josemaria Institute with Spirit Juice Studios. In English with subtitles in English and Spanish. Total running time 37 minutes.

Viewing Recommendations

Travelers making a spiritual pilgrimage to the Holy Land will find these videos helpful for preparing in advance to visit the sites as well as to relive and share the pilgrimage experience when they return back home.

Because pilgrims often have very limited time at each site, it is helpful to become familiar in advance with the sites and what occurred there so that you can fully take advantage of your time in each place.

Therefore, we recommend watching the videos at least 2-3 weeks in anticipation of your trip: on your own or as a group (if you are traveling with others).

We also suggest watching the videos during the trip—perhaps watching on your own the videos on the sites to be visited the following day of your trip, and/or watching them as a group on the tour bus before arriving to each site.

If you are not travelling to the Holy Land, we recommend watching the videos as a companion to your Gospel reading and as you meditate on the mysteries of the Holy Rosary. Learning and seeing these places today will help you go deeper in your spiritual encounter with Jesus Christ, Our Lady, and the history of our Faith.

The Holy Land: An Encounter with Jesus Christ Missalette will be your constant companion. It includes the Masses, hymns, prayers, and blessings that you will need to visit the most popular sites in the Holy Land. With a preface by Fr. James Socias.

The Holy Land: An Encounter with Jesus Christ Pilgrim Kit includes the pilgrim handbook, missalette, and DVD for a special bundle price. Whether the trip is already booked or on the bucket list, the Pilgrim Kit makes a great companion or gift for anyone who wants to make an unforgettable spiritual pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

Product Image

Life of jesus.

The book, Life of Jesus , is available as an addon to the Pilgrim Kit. Life of Jesus reflects on Jesus Christ's earthly life, the Jewish culture in which he grew up, the places he visited, and the roads he traveled.

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Journey to the Holy Land, the Heavenly Jerusalem, for the True Peace

All Christians, at least once, dream about a journey to the holy land. Bethlehem where Jesus was born, Nazareth where He grew up, the Lake of Galilee where He met His disciples and preached the gospel . . . To feel the footsteps of Jesus, travelling back over a period of 2,000 years, would be the greatest delight in one’s life which cannot be compared with anything else. Sincere Christians leave on a journey to the holy land, being overwhelmed with joy, without hesitating to endure the long distance, the high costs and the inconvenience of waiting in line among so many pilgrims, just so that they can have a monumental and spiritual experience.

A holy land which they cannot exclude is Jerusalem. Including the Via Dolorosa which is the road where Jesus walked to the hill of Golgotha, carrying the cross, Jerusalem is the living scene of the gospel work where Jesus’ footsteps remain intact. This small city, which is surrounded by hills, is called the most holy land on the earth, and it has pilgrims lining up 365 days a year.

History of Jerusalem

People long to have peace in their minds, looking around the holy places in Jerusalem called the “city of peace.” However, if you look into the history of Jerusalem, it is far from the reality of peace. There has been more bloodshed in Jerusalem than any other place due to the endless religious disputes. Aldous Huxley, an English writer, even described the city as the “slaughterhouse of religions.”

Jerusalem is the holy land not only for Christians but also for Muslims. There is the Dome of the Rock, which is known to be a place where Muhammad ascended with riding a horse, according to legend. For Muslims, it is the third holiest land followed by Mecca and Medina. Jerusalem is more important than any other place for the Jews as well because God’s Temple was located there.

As three different religions and two different peoples [Israelis and Palestinians] insist on having the ownership of Jerusalem, it still remains as a representative city of dispute in international society. Nevertheless, the holy image of Jerusalem has not declined at all. Actually, it gets stronger as time passes by.

The history of Jerusalem began in the time of Abraham. Abraham’s descendants were chosen by heaven, and they settled down in Canaan [Israel]. As God had prophesied, they stayed in Egypt as “alien guests,” but came back to the promised land. As the temple and the fortress were built in the time of David and Solomon, Jerusalem enjoyed the most prosperity. However, not long after that, Israel was divided into two parts―North Israel and South Judah, and they were each destroyed by Assyria and Babylon.

However, as Persia conquered Babylon, they freed the Jews and sent them back to their homeland. The Jews, who came back to their homeland, were occupied again by the Greek Empire which had conquered Persia. They were controlled by the Roman Empire that conquered the world. This is when Jesus appeared and Christianity was born.

The Jews did not recognize the Messiah whom they had eagerly waited for. In the end, they handed Jesus over to be crucified on the charge of blasphemy, saying that He claimed to be God even though He was a mere man, and they cried without hesitation, “Let his blood be on us and on our children” (Mt 27:25). The wages for their sins was misery. As Jesus had prophesied that not one stone would be left on another and that everyone would be thrown down (Mk 13:2), Jerusalem was thoroughly destroyed by the Roman army in A.D. 70.

However, after the Roman Emperor Constantine officially recognized Christianity, the status of Jerusalem where Jesus had lived a life of the gospel was greatly enhanced. Many Christians regarded Jerusalem as the main place of their pilgrimage, but it didn’t last long; as the Muslim Empire conquered most regions of the Middle East with great military strength and advanced civilization, Jerusalem was taken over by the Muslims.

In the Middle Ages, Christian nations in Europe gathered together and waged the Crusades several times in order to take their holy land from the pagans. Although they claimed to fight in the name of God, the Crusades lasted about 200 years because of their worldly desires, and it ended, leaving Jerusalem stained with so much blood without a certain winner or loser.

Going through a period of a violent collisions between the two religions, influential Jews in Europe started Zionism 1 from the late 19th century to the 20th century. After World War II ended, the Jews finally re-established Israel in 1948, nearly 1,900 years after Jerusalem was destroyed. Through its independence and the First Arab–Israeli War, Israel occupied West Jerusalem, and as they gained great victory in the Six-Day War in 1967, they occupied even the western coastal region of Jordan including East Jerusalem. Like that, they occupied Jerusalem which they had yearned for a long time.

1. Zionism: a movement that the Jews, scattered in various parts of the world, carried out to establish a Jewish state in Palestine, the land of their ancestors

Jerusalem is currently divided into two parts―east and west, according to the residential status of the Arabs and the Jews. The Old City of Jerusalem, which is called the center of the holy land, is divided into four quarters―Jewish, Armenian, Christian, and Muslim. Each religion manager opens the doors at the regularly scheduled worship time. They worship their own god in their own language. The scene of this holy(?) city in the early morning speaks for the difficult history of Jerusalem.

Jerusalem, the land of salvation

Jerusalem is not just a holy land. The Bible says that it is a place where we can take refuge when there is a disaster, where our salvation is completed, and where our souls can truly be comforted.

Those who are left in Zion, who remain in Jerusalem, will be called holy, all who are recorded among the living in Jerusalem. Isa 4:3

. . . your eyes will see Jerusalem, a peaceful abode . . . the sins of those who dwell there will be forgiven. Isa 33:20–24

“Rejoice with Jerusalem . . . you will be comforted over Jerusalem.” . . . Isa 66:10–14

In 1999 when everybody talked about the millennium bug [Y2K], an incredible number of people crowded to Jerusalem. Hotels in Jerusalem were packed with people who chose Jerusalem as their refuge, believing it would be the safest place in case something should happen on the earth. Throughout the ages, those who long for salvation have always kept their eyes on Jerusalem. Paying attention to the main incidents occurring around Jerusalem, they believed that the kingdom of heaven was near and hurried to prepare themselves. A certain denomination, paying attention to the prophecies, heated up milk and put a saddle on a donkey every day to be ready to serve God no matter when He would come. A rich European count even built a mansion to accommodate the 144,000 saints mentioned in the book of Revelation.

People who were not given an opportunity to receive God while being alive hoped to be saved even after death. They regarded Jerusalem as a holy place, where God would take the souls to heaven first at His coming as the Last Judge. The inside and outside of the city of Jerusalem has gradually become a place where dead people wait for the resurrection. It is very easy to find tombs, which fill the base of mountains and residential areas as well. Herman Melville, an American novelist, gave a sarcastic remark on the city of Jerusalem which is full of graveyards. He described Jerusalem as the “city besieged by army of the dead,” alluding to the prophecy of Jesus who said, “Jerusalem will be surrounded by the armies.”

It is not only the tombs that make Jerusalem bleak and warlike. Since it cannot free itself from conflicts between nations and disputes among different religions, its streets are covered with soldiers holding guns, and it is often on the news because of riots and terrorist activities that happen there every day. Nevertheless, Jerusalem is still one of the courses for the journey to the holy land.

Amos Oz, an Israeli writer from Jerusalem, says, “Can one ever feel at home in Jerusalem, I wonder, even if one lives here for a century?” This question is worth being thrown at the pilgrims who crowd into Jerusalem from all around the world. Have their souls been truly comforted in this city, called the “city of peace,” where peace was taken away a long time ago?

Heavenly Jerusalem is our Mother

Jerusalem is a special and holy city. It is definitely true that this place is inseparable from our salvation. However, the Jerusalem which God’s people must seek and stay in is not the Jerusalem in Palestine, the center of disputes, where the atmosphere change depending on political situations. It is hardly possible that our God, who is just and righteous, chooses a certain region as a place of salvation and turns His face away from numerous people who cannot afford to go there even though they long to receive salvation.

Jerusalem that the prophet Isaiah saw in a vision is not a fixed land or city, but a heavenly being. The Bible describes Jerusalem as the wife of the Lamb, that is, the bride of God the Father.

One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. Rev 21:9–10

To dwell in Jerusalem, the abode of salvation, we must know the exact reality of Jerusalem. The Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down from heaven, refers to the Mother of our spirits, who is God the Mother.

But the Jerusalem that is above is free, and she is our mother. Gal 4:26

As prophesied, salvation in this age is completed through faith in the heavenly Jerusalem, God the Mother. Salvation can be achieved by knowing God the Mother and having complete faith in Her, and our souls can truly be comforted in Her.

“Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her, all you who love her; rejoice greatly with her, all you who mourn over her . . . As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.” Isa 66:10–14

The people, who have confirmed the existence of Heavenly Jerusalem Mother through the prophecies of the Bible, dream to meet Her who dwells on this earth in the flesh, and they leave for a journey to the holy land. The new holy land is Korea where Heavenly Jerusalem Mother dwells.

To Jerusalem, Heavenly Jerusalem

In the last days the mountain of the LORD’s temple will be established as chief among the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and peoples will stream to it. Many nations will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” The law will go out from Zion, the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. Mic 4:1–2

Nobody can stop the prophecies of the Bible being fulfilled. Every year, more than 1,000 pilgrims visit Korea , the holy land, to learn the truth and receive the water of life that is flowing out from Jerusalem. After meeting Mother whom they have missed even in their dreams, they all share their overwhelmed emotions.

“When I went to the church for the first time, I heard the church members giving thanks to ‘Father and Mother,’ and I wondered, ‘Who is this Mother?’ I had no doubt about the truth of everything that I was being taught, so I was comfortable to wait for the explanation. Soon I was given the answer. Upon learning that there is the family system in heaven just like on the earth, all of my emotions welled up. My heart felt so full, and I began to giggle like a toddler, uncontrollably. I felt such a feeling of joy inside. Even in the happiest times of my childhood, there was nothing to match the feeling, so exhilarating that I felt as if I could fly. From that moment, I had no doubt that our Heavenly Mother exists and that it was She who was touching my heart. As I learned more about Her boundless love and came to realize the enormity of the sacrifice that She has made for us, I was so deeply moved as to find myself in tears. Millions of Christians have wished, in the abstract, that they could have walked with Christ when He came to earth 2,000 years ago. To learn that Jerusalem Mother, Almighty God, is here on earth with us now left me stunned and amazed. To my great joy, only six months later I was in Korea, meeting Heavenly Mother―our female image of God who has come to earth in the flesh. A year later, even to this day, I know that I do not fully realize or understand how astonishing it was to walk with God the Mother and receive a shower of blessings from Her.” August Kruesi from Washington D.C., USA

“After studying thoroughly about the words of the Bible, I realized that Christ has come again. I was in awe when I learned that Christ came a second time and revealed that we have Heavenly Parents. I was so happy to learn about Mother. I thought, ‘How sensational it is!’ We not only have God the Father, but we have God the Mother. It is beyond incredible. The greatest mystery of all mysteries in the Bible has been revealed. ‘The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life’ (Rev 22:17). The Spirit is God the Father, and the Bride is God the Mother! How fantastically awesome! Heavenly Mother is the only way to go to heaven. A mother’s love is beyond words or comprehension. I love my two children and would do anything for them. I would go to great lengths, risking my own life if need be, to assure their well-being and safety. All the love I have in my heart for my children is this much, then how much more love would our Heavenly Mother have for us? The love She has for Her children is unfathomable.” Karen Ann Gubbins from Meriden, CT, USA

“I first learned about Father’s coming again. Through Father’s teachings, the Bible became alive for me. What had earlier seemed unimportant, with little relevance, became alive. When I then learned about Heavenly Mother, my understanding of the Bible seemed to take a leap forward. So many aspects of the teachings in the Bible that I did not understand before became clear and vivid. All the truths about Mother seem, in hindsight, to be so obvious when we look around us at the world our God has created for us.” Michael King from Manchester, UK

“I was so happy to hear that God the Mother has come to this earth to save me and my lost brothers and sisters. By visiting Korea for the first time, I was able to feel Heavenly Mother’s great love that knows no bounds. Before Mother rescued my soul, I found it hard to believe that such a wonderful place as heaven could exist. But having been to Korea to meet God the Mother twice, I can now say that I have experienced heaven twice. I know that She is God because when I’m with Her there is only joy and love. Mother has washed away all my imperfections and refined my personality. She has given my life meaning. Without Mother’s great love, I would still be wasting my life and would not know true love.” Aileen Donnelly from Toronto, Canada

“I didn’t understand love. I spent most of my life seeking love, but I didn’t find it because the love in this world has a limit. But after meeting Mother, I was able to understand that what I had always sought was God the Mother’s infinite and true love. The one I have sought was Heavenly Mother, because God the Mother is love. Although we don’t even deserve to look at Her feet, She has come to this earth with Her infinite love to meet us, and She sacrifices Herself and embraces our hearts of stone to fill them with love. Although I cannot see it, I can feel it. I can feel the love I have been seeking for so long. Mother’s love is always with me, holds my hands and patiently guides me every day.” Alma Islas Motolinia from Atlixco, Mexico

“I’ve been in the media field for ten years, and I’ve done a lot of TV series, documentaries, TV movies, etc. But when I came to know about God the Mother, I was shocked. I was very excited to know more about Her through the Bible. I came to know that the words of the Bible are more important than any of my movie scripts. Heavenly Mother has a bigger and greater work than any of the movies we’ve produced in this world. I was lost and wandering about in this world which has no truth in it. I was weeping in my sorrow throughout my life. However, Jerusalem Mother has given me everlasting life. She is my life.” Selvamary M. Krishna Muthy from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Retracing Heavenly Mother’s footsteps of the gospel in the holy land, these pilgrims have been immersed in abundant love and spiritual joy, which they cannot get anywhere in the world. Pilgrims will keep coming until all the children of God, scattered over the world, find true comfort and receive the salvation of their souls.

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Have a question contact john walters. [email protected] or 765-648-2122, journey to the holy, the sea of galilee.

Manger Square, Bethlehem

Is there anywhere better to be on Christmas Eve than Bethlehem? The very place God came down as a baby to begin his mission on earth and save humankind all those nights ago.

Sit under the stars and hear the sheep bleat softly in the Shepherd's Field, untouched, it seems, by time. Or, explore the streets and join the thousands of believers uniting as one to celebrate this holy night.

THE PLACES YOU'LL EXPERIENCE... ​  

The sea of galilee.

It is the place where the majority of Jesus' adult ministry occurred. Stand on the banks where Jesus called Peter, James and John to be fishers of men. Sail on a vessel right to the center of the lake. As the engine slows and you feel the gentle rock of the lake, let your mind wander to the day the disciples saw Jesus appear through the mist, walking on water.

Petra is an ancient city famed for its architecture and rose-hue rock formations. The city is believed to have been constructed around 312 BC and was unknown to the Western world until 1812.

Besides being one of the wonders of the world, Petra is also known for the filming location of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade . Located in the southern region of the country, it remains Jordan's most popular tourist destination. 

Via Dolorosa

The Way of Suffering. Walk the steps of Jesus as He carried the cross through the streets of Jerusalem. See where He fell, once, twice, three times. Watch the narrative come to life before your very eyes.

The Empty Tomb

The story only begins at the Via Dolorosa. Visit a tomb similar to the one Mary visited when she found it empty. Hear the birds and feel the peace about the place. Take communion next to the tomb and feel the joy of redemption overwhelm you with peace.

MEET THE TEAM

Deidre Franklin

Deidre is part of the pastoral team at Crossings Community Church, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma where she has been on staff since 2000.  She grew up in Casper, Wyoming with the church at the center of her family life. She learned early on about many cultures as she traveled on mission trips to Australia, Germany, India, Mexico, Haiti, and Kenya. Having lived in Kobe, Japan and Budapest, Hungary, she has also led many ministry groups to places like Israel, Greece, Russia, Germany, and Italy.  She loves food, language, literature, history, and culture from all over the world…especially the lands of the Bible. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary with a masters degree in Biblical Studies, she is currently working on her Doctor of Ministry through Asbury Theological Seminary.  Deidre is part of the teaching team for our newest Christians Broadcasting Hope English Program…”Hope Lives Today.”      

FACILITATOR

John Walters

John lives in Central Indiana and is the Director of Christians Broadcast Hope (CBH).  Christians Broadcasting Hope partners with indigenous ministry teams to produce evangelistic programming in 10 languages around the world to expand and nurture the Kingdom of God using radio, internet platforms, and other mass media tools. Having traveled extensively and facilitated dozens of ministry teams from Africa to South America to Asia and beyond, Israel and Jordan have been the site for several these adventures. John will be producing some CBH recording materials along the way as we travel, as well as making sure you have a most memorable experience you will never forget.

Nabil Safi was raised in Beirut, Lebanon. As a dedicated pastor, teacher, businessman, and believer in Jesus he has a passion for the people of the Middle East. His linguistic skills in Arabic, English, and French, and a deep knowledge of the Arabic mindset has prepared him well to be an effective communicator among Middle Easterners and the broader world. Nabil currently lives in Noblesville, Indiana along with his wife Myrna and daughter Amanda.  Nabil and Myrna are the hosts of our Christians Broadcasting Hope Arabic program which garners over 125,000 followers on social media.  Additionally, Nabil is also part of the teaching team for our newest Christians Broadcasting Hope English program…”Hope Lives Today.”

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Journey in a Holy Land: A Spiritual Journal Hardcover – February 1, 2006

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• Print length 208 pages
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• Publication date February 1, 2006
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Paraclete Press; First Edition (February 1, 2006)
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• #1,135 in Christian Monasticism & Asceticism (Books)
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‘Holy Fire’ ceremony at Jesus’ tomb marks beginning of Orthodox Easter celebrations

By Marinella Bandini

Jerusalem, May 5, 2024 / 09:00 am

Pilgrims gathered in Jerusalem on Saturday for the annual “Holy Fire” ceremony at the revered site of Jesus’ burial and resurrection, an ancient custom considered by many believers to be a miraculous event that takes place the day before the Orthodox Christian celebration of Easter.

For safety reasons, attendance at the May 4 event was capped at 4,200 people inside the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher, though the crowds were more manageable and somewhat subdued this year because of a lack of pilgrims from the Palestinian territories and abroad due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Access to the Old City where the basilica is located was restricted beginning on Friday night amid a heavy police presence. Numerous medical personnel and firefighters were present inside the basilica.

Though its authenticity is disputed by some, the “Holy Fire” or “ Holy Light ” refers to a fire of purported divine origin that ignites inside Jesus’ tomb while only the Greek Orthodox patriarch is present. Pilgrims then light their candles by extending them through a small opening in the tomb, producing a dramatic scene of flickering flames and joyous celebration.

The Orthodox Christian ceremony, which is attended by Catholics and other Christians as well, has been held continuously since at least 1106, though accounts dating to the fourth century relate that the apostle Peter saw the holy light himself inside the tomb.

The doors of the Holy Sepulcher were opened at 9 a.m. by Greek Orthodox representatives and again at 9:30 a.m. by representatives of the Armenian Apostolic Church — the two Orthodox communities that serve with Catholic Franciscans as the custodians of the site. Only then did the faithful begin to enter the basilica.

Around 11 a.m., those present began to sing traditional hymns in the loudest voice possible. These chants date back to the Turkish occupation of Jerusalem in the 13th century when Christians were not allowed to chant anywhere but in the churches.

The heart of the ceremony was between 1 and 2 p.m. After the solemn entrances of the other Orthodox patriarchs of Jerusalem, the Greek Orthodox patriarch, Theophilos III, entered the basilica.

Previously, the doors of the edicule (the small shrine that houses the tomb of Jesus Christ) had been sealed with a large wax seal — signifying that the tomb had been inspected and that nothing was present that could be used to start a fire. Shortly before the arrival of the Greek patriarch, the seal was removed, and a large oil lamp was carried into the tomb.

After completing three rounds around the edicule, leading a procession of monks and priests, Patriarch Theophilos III entered the edicule, followed by a delegate of the Armenian patriarch (who could not attend due to an internal dispute) and several bishops from various denominations.

Only the Greek Orthodox patriarch is allowed to enter the chamber that houses the tomb of Jesus, while all the others remain in the Chapel of the Angel, a sort of antechamber that commemorates the appearance of a heavenly messenger to the women at the tomb announcing Jesus’ resurrection.

Before entering the tomb, the Greek patriarch was inspected by Israeli authorities to prove that he didn’t carry any technical means to light the fire.

All the lights and lamps in the basilica were extinguished, especially those inside the edicule, which was left in darkness.

What believers attest to be a miracle takes place after a brief time of prayer: A holy fire is said to descend from heaven and ignite an oil lamp inside the tomb.

On Saturday, after the lamp was lit the Greek Orthodox patriarch emerged from the tomb and lit bundles of 33 candles (a number representing the age of Christ at the time of his crucifixion and resurrection). Meanwhile, pilgrims lit their candles also from the small round windows on the sides of the edicule, creating a dramatic scene outside the tomb. It is said that the fire does not burn anything (or anyone) for the first 33 minutes after being lit.

More in Middle East - Africa

Angola archdiocese announces monthly Eucharistic adoration ahead of Church’s 2025 Jubilee

For Orthodox believers, the lighting of the fire is a genuine miraculous event, although voices within the Orthodox world itself have repeatedly questioned the authenticity of the miracle, attributing the spontaneous lighting of the lamp to tricks or chemical methods.

In solidarity with the Palestinian people in Gaza and the victims of the war, the Orthodox Christians have chosen a more subdued celebration this year. To that end, the Holy Fire was not passed hand to hand through the streets of the Old City of Jerusalem, as is the custom, but was brought directly into the homes of the faithful.

Special lanterns transport flames from the tomb to the main Orthodox churches in the Holy Land and around the world (via specially arranged flights). The arrival of the flames from Jerusalem will mark the beginning of the Easter celebrations.

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• Easter 2024

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First Arab Christian woman to lead Israel’s University of Haifa

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Cardinal Pizzaballa: Peace in Holy Land built on dialogue, action

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Head of Franciscans worldwide visits brothers in the Holy Land

dominika zara | Shutterstock

There are scores of Franciscan Friars in the Holy Land – many of them from outside the region. In the midst of war, they received encouragement to stay and continue to carry out their mission of caring for the Holy Sites related to the Life of Christ.

“I found the brothers better than I thought: hurt by what is happening, but also determined to stay here,” said Fr. Massimo Fusarelli, Minister General of the Order of Friars Minor , on a recent visit to the Holy Land. “So the first word is ‘please, brothers, stay here. Stay not locked in, but stay with the people, next to the people, as you can.’”

The Rome-based minister general, along with the Order’s Vicar General, Brother Ignacio Ceja Jiménez, visited the Holy Land April 15 to 20. The visit had been planned for some time, but the war in Gaza and the risk of an expansion of the conflict throughout the Middle East postponed the trip.

“Many advised us not to come because of the great danger,” said Fr. Fusarelli. “But considering that the friars, the Christians, who live here in danger every day, I thought that for a few days I could be there too. I came precisely in this spirit of closeness and listening.” 

Between God and Man

He called the Friars in the Holy Land “intercessors, from the Latin intercedere , to “walk between God and people, in the midst of the battlefield.”

“We are in a battlefield,” he said. “Remain as those who walk between the two sides, reminding God that this is His people.”

But, during his visit, Fr. Fusarelli also encouraged the Friars to look already to the future and “think about the children, think about how to continue to give hope and confidence to this land. While we are stuck in war look already to the future.”

On April 16, after visiting Magdala, Tabga and Capernaum, on the Lake of Galilee, Fusarelli met all the friars of the region on Mount Tabor. The Minister General recalled the many fraternities of the Order “present in the wounded places of today’s humanity,” inviting the friars of the Custody to “remain in this land that bears so many stigmas to be responded to by our charism.”

Presiding at Mass in the Basilica of the Transfiguration, he spoke about the tension between light and darkness, experienced by St. Francis himself, who found his solution in the Risen Christ: His prayer before the crucifix at San Damiano was, “O high and glorious God, illuminate the darkness of my heart.”

After Mass, in the presence of the Custos of the Holy Land, Fr. Francesco Patton, the “LuxTenebra” exhibition was inaugurated for the centenary of the dedication of the Basilica of the Transfiguration.

Stay awake!

In Jerusalem, the Minister General visited the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Studium Biblicum Franciscanum , which recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. 

In Bethlehem, Fusarelli went to the Children’s House, which for 17 years has welcomed Christian children (currently 26) from families in difficulty, and the Michele Piccirillo Center, which employs disabled children in the creation of handicrafts and artistic artifacts.

Back in Jerusalem, he presided at Mass in the Basilica of the Agony, in Gethsemane. During the homily, he recalled how, from the arid earth, flowers can grow.

“In trial, the attitude that Jesus indicates is not to resist against feelings of fear and anguish, but vigilance, to stay awake, not to let ourselves be overwhelmed by suffering.”

In this way, he encouraged those who live in the Holy Land and are going through a period of obvious difficulties. 

Fr. Patton spoke of the minister general’s visit as an important “sign of closeness.”

“It is a difficult time for the whole Holy Land, for the whole Middle East. Many are not coming. Many are afraid to come,” said Patton. “Instead, the minister and the vicar general chose to be close to us, to come and visit us to realize what the real situation is and also to encourage us.”

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Migrant Caravan Embarks on a Journey During Holy Week to Seek Attention to Their Hardships

I n a bid to shine a light on the crises they face, approximately 2,000 migrants embarked on a Holy Week march in the southern region of Mexico. The march commenced on Monday from the city of Tapachula, situated close to the border with Guatemala, just as dawn broke.

The participants, which include migrants and their supporters, stated their intention to reach Mexico City as part of a demonstration to bring attention to the various dangers migrants encounter, such as robbery, sexual abuse, extortion, and kidnapping.

As part of its containment policy to deter migrants from reaching the U.S. border, Mexico has confined them to the southern part of the country. Migrants often face an indefinite wait as they attempt to get permission to stay, either through asylum or other legal methods. With insufficient employment opportunities available and burdened by the debts owed to people traffickers, their situation becomes more difficult.

To mark the occasion, the procession showcased a large white cross with the words “Cristo resucitado” (“Christ resurrected”) written in Spanish. Furthermore, on the eve of the march, participants took part in a Stations of the Cross procession symbolizing pilgrimage and contemplation across the river separating Guatemala and Mexico.

Among the marchers was Daniel Godoy from Guatemala, who, along with his wife and two young children, set out on the journey after a four-month wait in Tapachula to get their legal status sorted.

With no fixed date for receiving their residency cards or permits, Godoy, carrying his two-year-old on his shoulders and his wife bearing their six-month-old infant, decided to undertake the journey independently.

Rev. Heyman Vázquez Medina of the Catholic Church’s effort towards human mobility criticized Mexico’s ambiguous immigration policies. He condemned the reluctance of the government in providing migrants the legal right to pass through the country and their prohibition from public transport, yet obliging them to embark on the risky trek along highways.

Pressure has been exerted on the Mexican government by the Biden administration in the United States to regulate the migration towards the U.S. border. Statistics released on a Friday disclosed that the U.S. Border Patrol documented 140,644 migrant encounters in February, a notable rise from the 124,220 in January, albeit considerably less than the near 250,000 encounters in December.

Keep up with AP’s comprehensive migration coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/migration

FAQ Section

What is the purpose of the migrant caravan?

The migrant caravan aims to travel to Mexico City to raise awareness of their dire circumstances, including the various dangers they face, such as robbery, sexual abuse, extortion, and kidnapping.

Why do migrants remain in southern Mexico rather than moving north towards the US border?

Mexico’s containment policy aims to prevent migrants from reaching the US border, often trapping them in southern Mexico where they face long waits to legally regularize their status.

What challenges do migrants face while waiting to regularize their status in Mexico?

Migrants encounter limited job opportunities while dealing with debts from smugglers. Their wait to obtain legal documents like residence cards or permits is also fraught with uncertainty.

What has been the response of the Mexican government to the migrant situation?

The Mexican government has been criticized for its unclear immigration policies and for making migrants undergo perilous journeys on foot due to restrictions on using public transportation.

What has been the recent trend in migrant encounters at the US border?

The U.S. Border Patrol reported an increase in migrant encounters in February compared to January, though the numbers are below the high encountered in December of the previous year.

The Holy Week march by the migrant caravan in southern Mexico is a poignant reminder of the persistent and intense challenges faced by migrants. As they seek to highlight their situation and push for more compassionate and coherent policies, the international community and national governments must heed their call for assistance and fair treatment. It is crucial that these individuals and families who embark on such perilous journeys are met with empathy and offered sustainable solutions that respect their dignity and basic human rights.

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The last flower at the top of the world—and the perilous journey to reach it

Scientists journeyed to a stretch of gravel off the coast of Greenland—the farthest north you can go and still walk on land. These photos show what they found there.

At the top of the Earth, the northernmost stretch of land a person can stand on is Inuit Qeqertaat, also named Kaffeklubben Island by early 20th century Danish explorers. The region is a dark gray stretch of gravel on the northern coast of Greenland where land slowly gives way to frozen sea ice.

To find what lives amid these rocky soils, climate change researchers and National Geographic Explorers Brian Buma and Jeff Kerby and their team embarked on a journey to survey the region. There, they found a common species of moss ( Tortula mucronifolia ), the world's northernmost plant, and a yellow and lime-green Arctic poppy ( Papaver radicatum ), growing just a few inches south of the moss.  

On the nearby mainland, Greenlandic archaeologist Aka Simonsen discovered a ring of roughly 700-year-old Inuit stones, which may be the northernmost archaeological remains.

The research team left their own mark on the mainland coast, staking plots and recording the vegetation they contained to create a highly detailed digital map of the area they surveyed. Information collected from this trip will be the first data logs in what Buma and Kerby hope will be a long timeline of research in the far northern region.  

Here, above the Arctic Circle, the planet is warming four times faster than anywhere else on Earth. Changes here will have ripple effects across the globe, which is why the team braved harsh conditions to find what lives on the edge.  

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