12-Day Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land: Explore Jerusalem, Galilee, and Biblical Sites
From Mt Carmel where Elijah battled the Gods of Baal, and Capernaum, “His Own Town”, through to the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem, this meaningful tour will strengthen our connection to the Bible and to the land of Israel.
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Day 1 – Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport
Begin your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land with a warm reception and transfer to Jerusalem. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city before arriving at our hotel. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 2 – In the Footsteps of Jesus in the Holy City
Start your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land on the Mount of Olives with its magnificent view of the walled city of Jerusalem. Enter the Old City, walk along the Via Dolorosa and the stations of the cross, and visit the Pool of Bethesda where Jesus healed the lame man.
Continue through the Jewish Quarter to the Western Wall, the holiest site in Judaism and the Southern Steps of the Temple Mount. End the day at the historic City of David. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 3 – Samaria, the Heartland of Israel
Today’s journey through Samaria is a significant part of our Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Visit Beth-El, where Jacob dreamt of the divine ladder, Shiloh, the site of the Tabernacle for over 300 years, and Alon Moreh, where Abraham built his altar.
The final stop will be Nebi Samuel, traditionally the burial site of the prophet Samuel. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 4 – Judean Wilderness and the Dead Sea
Experience the Judean Wilderness during your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Visit Masada, the site of the last Jewish resistance, En-Gedi Oasis where David hid from Saul, and Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Before returning to Jerusalem, take a dip in the Dead Sea. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 5 – Jerusalem – the New City
Explore the Israel Museum to see historical artifacts throughout Israel’s history including the Dead Sea Scrolls. Next, we will visit Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial Museum. We will continue in the New City of Jerusalem as part of your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land. End the day with a visit to the Garden Tomb. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 6 – Through the Land of the Philistines
Continue your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land with a visit to Bethlehem the birth place of Jesus. Walk in the Shepherds’ Fields where the angels announced the birth of Christ to the shepherds.
Enter the Elah Valley where David fought Goliath, and finally Tel Beth Shemesh. Travel through the Valley of Ayalon to arrive at Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean shoreline. Overnight in Tel-Aviv.
Day 7 – Up the Coast to the Galilee
On this day of your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land, visit the ancient port of Jaffa where Jonah fled from the call of God, Caesarea on the sea where Paul was put on trial, Mt. Carmel where the prophet Elijah battled the prophets of Baal, Tel Megiddo the site of the future battle of Armageddon, Nazareth the home town of Jesus, and Cana where Christ’s first miracle was performed. You will then arrive at the Sea of Galilee. Overnight in Tiberias.
Day 8 – In the Footsteps of Jesus in the Galilee
Your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land continues with visits to the Jesus Boat, a recovered first-century fishing boat found in the Sea of Galilee, the Mt. of Beatitudes, Korazim, and Capernaum. Enjoy a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee at sunset, overnight in Tiberias.
Day 9 – South of the Sea of Galilee
Begin the day with a baptism service at the Jordan River, then ascend Mt. Arbel for a breathtaking view of the Galilee. Continue your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land with visits to Mt. Tabor where Jesus was transfigured before his closest disciples, En-Harod Spring near where Gideon chose the 300 men to fight with him, and Beth Shean where the best preserved first-century city, overnight in Tiberias.
Day 10 – The Northern Reaches of the Promised Land
Explore the Tel Dan Reserve, Banias Springs, and the Golan Heights on this leg of your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land, overnight in Tiberias.
Day 11 – Leisure at the Sea of Galilee
Spend a peaceful day on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, reflecting on your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Enjoy a farewell banquet before packing for departure, overnight in Tiberias.
Day 12 – Depart from Ben Gurion Airport
Conclude your Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land and depart from Ben Gurion Airport on your flight back home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I pack for a 12-day Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land? Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for religious sites, a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
2. Are there opportunities for Mass and prayer during the pilgrimage? Yes, Mass and prayer are included at key religious sites.
3. Is the pilgrimage suitable for older travelers? Yes, but some walking is required. Consult your doctor if needed.
Conclusion
Embark on a life-changing journey through the Holy Land, walking in the footsteps of Jesus and exploring the sacred sites that have shaped our faith for centuries. This 12-day Catholic pilgrimage offers a unique opportunity to deepen your spiritual connection and unforgettably experience the history of Israel.
Join us on this sacred journey and book your 12-day Catholic Pilgrimage to the Holy Land today! Secure your spot now and prepare for an inspiring and transformative experience.