Following this week’s ceasefire agreement in Israel, a strong and warm invitation has been issued from the Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, for Christians to return to the Holy Land on pilgrimage.

“In this Jubilee year dedicated to hope, return to the source of hope that is the encounter with the Risen Christ. And also, to bring hope back to so many Christian families. Come back, we await you with joy and eager anticipation.”

The Patriarch expressed his thanks to the universal Church for its support, both spiritual and concrete, during the long months of conflict in the region.

“Now it is time to continue to help and support this Church, resuming the holy journey, returning to Jerusalem. Returning to the Holy Land and visiting the places, bringing back to life the other lung of this Church which is the pilgrimage and the presence of pilgrims.”

The Custodian of the Hoy Land, Fr Francesco Patton echoed the Patriarch’s invitation, emphasising that coming on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land is an act of mercy and solidarity with the local people:

“We are waiting for you, because when you come on pilgrimage, you make our Christian community feel that it is part of a family that is universal and Catholic. It is the family of Christians, of the Church, that lives throughout the world. And then there is also a very concrete dimension of solidarity. When you come to the Holy Land as pilgrims, at the same time, you also give our people the opportunity to live with dignity from their work.”

“It is safe,” said Fr Patton. “Don’t be afraid. Come, we are waiting for you, and we need you!”

Harvest Journeys is offering opportunities to travel on pilgrimage to the Holy Land for the Jubilee Holy Year 2025. Register your interest below and we will be in touch with opportunities.

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