The Holy Land

Today marks the beginning of a truly transformative pilgrimage as we board our flight to Tel Aviv, Israel. We invite you to enjoy the journey ahead, filled with excitement and spiritual significance, as we prepare for an unforgettable experience.

DAY 2: TEL AVIV / NETANYA

Upon our arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, we’ll be greeted by our professional pilgrimage guide. Together, we’ll board our comfortable touring vehicle and make our way to our hotel in Netanya. If time allows, we will make a stop to celebrate Mass at the historic St. Peter’s Church in Jaffa City, a lovely way to start our spiritual exploration. Afterward, we will settle in for a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay in Netanya.

DAY 3: CAESAREA MARITIMA / MUHRAQA / MT. CARMEL / HAIFA / TIBERIAS

After breakfast, we head to Caesarea Maritima to reflect on the baptism of Cornelius by Peter, celebrating the inclusion of Gentiles into Christianity. We’ll explore the ruins of King Herod’s city and celebrate Mass at Deir Al-Muhraqa Carmelite Monastery, where Elijah confronted the prophets of Baal. Next, we’ll visit the serene Stella Maris Monastery on Mt. Carmel before heading to the vibrant city of Haifa. Our day concludes with a scenic drive to Tiberias, where we will have dinner and comfortable overnight accommodations at our hotel.

DAY 4: CANA / NAZARETH / MT. TABOR / TIBERIAS

After breakfast, we will celebrate Mass at the Wedding Church in Cana, where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine. This is a wonderful opportunity for couples to renew their wedding vows and receive a special certificate from the church. Our journey then leads us to the sacred grounds of Nazareth, where we will visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, St. Joseph’s Church, Mary’s Well, and the charming old market. Next, we’ll travel to Mount Tabor, the site of the Transfiguration. We’ll end our day with dinner and overnight accommodations at our hotel in Tiberias.

DAY 5: MT. OF BEATITUDES / TABGHA / CAPERNAUM / SEA OF GALILEE / BETHLEHEM

This morning, we’ll draw inspiration at the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount. Next, we’ll visit Tabgha, the site of the Multiplication of Fish and Loaves, and the Church of Peter’s Primacy. Our journey continues to Capernaum, where Jesus spent most of His time ministering. Later, we’ll enjoy a boat ride on the serene Sea of Galilee and celebrate Mass on board amidst stunning views. We’ll return to Bethlehem for dinner and a restful night at our hotel.

DAY 6: BETHLEHEM

Good morning, everyone! After breakfast, we’ll gather for Mass at Shepherds’ Field, a place of peace and history. Then, we’ll visit the Church of the Nativity, the site of Christ’s birth. This is a chance to reflect on our shared faith. Afterward, you can explore the local Christian Cooperative store for unique souvenirs. We’ll return to the hotel for a cozy dinner and a relaxing evening in Bethlehem.

DAY 7: BETHANY / JORDAN RIVER / JERICHO / QUMRAN / DEAD SEA

We begin our day in the peaceful village of Bethany, home of Lazarus, where we visit the Lazarus Church to learn about his miraculous story. Next, we head to the Jordan River to renew our baptismal vows at the site of Jesus’ baptism. As we travel through the stunning Jordan Valley, we arrive in Jericho, the oldest city, and witness the Mount of Temptation where Jesus fasted and was tempted by Satan. Our journey continues to Qumran, the site of the Dead Sea Scrolls discovery. Finally, we’ll take a refreshing dip in the healing waters of the Dead Sea before returning to our hotel in Bethlehem for dinner and a restful night.

DAY 8: JERUSALEM: PALM SUNDAY ROUTE

Today, we’ll explore the Mount of Olives and Pater Noster, where Jesus taught the Lord’s Prayer. We’ll walk the Palm Sunday route, stopping at Dominus Flevit, where Jesus wept for Jerusalem. In the Garden of Gethsemane, we’ll reflect at The Rock of Agony before celebrating Mass at the Church of All Nations. We’ll visit the Chapel of the Ascension, then head to Mount Zion to see the Upper Room, where the Last Supper took place. Our day ends at St. Peter in Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus three times. Finally, we’ll return to our hotel in Bethlehem for dinner.

DAY 9: JERUSALEM: VIA DOLOROSA

After breakfast, we’ll journey along the Via Dolorosa, reflecting on Jesus’ last days at the Stations of the Cross and concluding with a Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. We’ll visit St. Anne’s Church and see the Ecce Homo, which leads to the Western Wall, Judaism’s holiest site. You’ll have free time to explore other Holy Sites, shop, or relax at the hotel, where dinner awaits.

DAY 10: EIN KAREM / JERUSALEM

After breakfast, we’ll visit Ein Karem, the birthplace of St. John the Baptist, and see the Church of the Visitation, where the Virgin Mary proclaimed the “Magnificat.” We’ll then return to Jerusalem to explore the Israel Museum, featuring a scale model of Second Temple Era Jerusalem and the Shrine of the Book. Finally, we’ll have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant before returning for a comfortable night at our hotel in Bethlehem.

DAY 11: RETURN FLIGHT HOME

As we have our final breakfast, let’s prepare for our journey to the airport. We hope your pilgrimage has been fulfilling and meaningful.