2025
Our church’s group of 10 devoted pilgrims embarked on a transformative journey to the Holy Land from September 29 to October 9, 2025. As we spent eight months preparing for this pilgrimage, we confronted a backdrop of unstable international circumstances and urgent situations unfolding in Israel. Yet, in His infinite grace, God orchestrated a journey that exceeded our expectations and filled our hearts with peace.
Our pilgrimage commenced in the quaint and historic town of Bethlehem, where we stood in awe at the very birthplace of Jesus, surrounded by ancient stone structures that whispered stories of faith. From there, we ventured through the breathtaking landscapes of Galilee, where rolling hills and serene waters provided a tranquil backdrop for reflection and prayer.
The journey culminated in the vibrant city of Jerusalem, a place steeped in history and spirituality. Each site we visited resonated with profound significance, deepening our understanding and connection to our faith. The places we explored are as follows:
Qasr el Yahud (the Baptismal site of Jesus), Jericho, Qumran, Dead Sea, Herodion, the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Caesarea, Mount Carmel, Tel Megiddo, Capernaum, Mount of Beatitudes, Sea of Galilee, the Church of the Loaves and Fish in Tabgha, tehe Chapel of the Primacy, Magdala, Mount Arbel, Tel Dan, Caesarea Philippi, the Golan Heights, Cana, Nazareth, Samaria, Jacob’s Well in Nablus (ancient Shechem), Mount Olive, Mount Zion, Western Wall, the Pool of Bethesda, Via Dolorosa, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Garden Tomb.
At each pilgrimage site we explored, we immersed ourselves in the Scriptures, experiencing the profound depths of God’s love and providence, as well as His remarkable work of salvation as we traced the footsteps of Jesus.
This journey transcended mere sightseeing; it was a sacred retreat, rich with spiritual renewal. We gathered in prayer meetings at each holy site, shared passages from the Bible, and lifted our voices in hymns, creating an atmosphere of reverence and joy. The air was filled with a sense of connection to history and faith, making every moment deeply impactful. Our church is eagerly planning to organize regular pilgrimages to the Holy Land in the future, inviting more people to partake in this transformative experience.