Dear Parishioners and Friends,
We are really enjoying our pilgrimage in the Holy Land. It has been a time of learning and spiritual growth as we wended our way from Galilee and Nazareth, walking in Jesus’ footsteps. We then made our way to the ancient city of Jericho, which has been inhabited for 10,000 years. After some time in Bethlehem, we were on to Hebron, a city divided. Somehow, Muslims and Jews are able to worship in the same ancient building (although with a partition) that contains the tombs of Abraham and Sarah. Finally, we entered Jerusalem, where we are staying in the Christian Quarter. It is a beautiful city that I can’t wait to explore. Unfortunately, I was taken down by a nasty bug and had to spend all of this day in bed. I am beginning to feel better, and look forward to seeing the Holy Sepulchre tomorrow.
This is a land that so many people around the world regard as their spiritual home. As Jesus said on the Mount of the Beatitudes, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” There is much we can all learn through a pilgrimage here, especially how we can be voices for peace and reconciliation in our world.
Blessings,
Father Rick
