A Pilgrimage to Holy Land<br/><br/>
After immersing themselves in violence for a month, Israel, and Hezbollah who were stationing in Lebanon, have finally reached a cease-fire agreement on Aug 14 (the eve of the Feast of the Assumption). This is a good sign. However, we should continue to pray for perpetual peace in the Middle East.<br/><br/>
Parishioners who thought about joining the pilgrimage to Holy Land but decided not to because of the volatile situation may now reconsider. We currently have more than 40 parishioners registered and the quota is 100 people.<br/><br/>
As you may know, our guide will be Sr. Jocelyn Monette nds, the assistant director of the Canadian Bible Society. She is well-versed in the bible and spent 6 years in Jerusalem. She will tell us the history and geography of Holy Land in layman terms. Participants must attend a course prior to the pilgrimage to better prepare themselves for the journey I personally have participated in a short six-week course hosted by the Sisters of Sion, which is the seminary for Sr. Jocelyn, and I have gained significant knowledge from it.<br/><br/>
Today’s City of Jerusalem is 10 feet taller than it was during Jesus’ time. However, from remains recovered from archeological excavations, the Judgment Hall when Pontius Pilate tried Jesus can be seen. Today’s “Way of the Cross”, is naturally more easily accessible than the path that Jesus set foot on. However, some landmarks –Palace of Caiaphas (the high priest who tried Jesus before sending Him to Pilate), the Garden of Gethsemane, and the empty tomb – remained intact.<br/><br/>
When you see buildings and objects from Jesus’ time, you think about Jesus – that’s one of the many advantages of going on a pilgrimage. I encourage you to register for the trip that will take place next year Feb 16th to 25th. Let’s go and “trace Jesus’ footsteps” together!