Pilgrimage to the Holy Land
The Holy Land
From November 19th to the 29th, thirteen of our parish faithful had the blessing to take a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The trip started in the ancient city of Jaffa, and continued up to the Sea of Galilee, through Nazareth, Jericho, Bethlehem, and ending up in the Old City of Jerusalem itself...where our Lord underwent our life saving Passion and Resurrection.
Archbishop Damaskinos
The tour was organized by St. Sabbas Monastery in Harper Woods, Michigan, and led by His Eminence Archbishop Damaskinos, Bishop of Jaffa. We were extremely fortunate to be with his Eminence, listening to amazing stories and insight about the holiest places in all of Christendom.
Palpable Experiences
Everywhere we went, you could truly feel the presence of Christ. For so many, it went from a trip to see some historical sights, to a truly spiritual pilgrimage. The feelings that overtake you when you go into the monasteries and places where Christ walked, was truly palpable. It is impossible to be a "doubting Thomas" after visiting Jerusalem!
A Window into Heaven
All of the Churches and Monasteries that we visited were truly windows into heaven. The ancient architecture, the old icons, and the original mosaics on the floor, all point to the ancient Christian Truth...that our worship spaces were always meant to resemble the kingdom of Heaven.
His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos III
Our parish family was blessed to be in the presence of the head of one of the oldest Orthodox Patriarchates in existence. We celebrated together with Beatitude for the feast of St. Michael the Archangel in Jaffa, were present for the anniversary of His enthronement near the Tomb of Christ, and were blessed to have a private meeting with his Beatitude at the end of our trip.
Memories that Last a Lifetime
The trip was a tremendous blessing for everyone who was able to go this year. We met people from all different parts of the world, and created bonds with each other that will last for all eternity. May our Lord grant all of our pilgrims, as well as those who will be going on future pilgrimages, many more blessed years!