This morning wrapped up our time in Jerusalem. It seems like just yesterday we arrived in this beautiful city, full of history of our Christian faith and the life and death of Jesus. We began our day with Mass in Jesus' empty tomb. A chapel has been built around the empty tomb of Jesus, with a marble slab being placed directly above the tomb to be used as an altar. All 47 of us pilgrims packed into the chapel. While Father Thomas was saying Mass, in small groups we entered the room where the empty tomb was an were able to touch the tomb. It was such an intimate moment to be with our Lord in the Eucharist, alive in our hearts, venerating his empty tomb. Christ is risen from the dead! Alleluia! Because of this, our entire lives are different, and the knowledge of this should cause us to live our lives in a way that is different- a way filled with joy, with hope, with longing to be with Him in paradise one day. During my time in the tomb, I was able to pray in a special way for some friends and family who are carrying tough crosses right now- my mom, my student Katie, and my other student Julia and her family. My prayer for them, and all those whom I brought on pilgrimage through my intentions, was that our Risen Christ would bring them hope as they, and we all, carry the cross Christ has entrusted to us.
Fr Thomas praying Mass at the tomb of Jesus!
St Margaret teachers and staff in front of the chapel built around the tomb of Jesus.
Our pilgrimage group on the steps of the church of the Holy Sepulcher, which houses Calvary and the tomb of Jesus.
After Mass and packing up, we visited Dominus Flevit. It is here that Jesus, as He approached the city of Jerusalem for Passover before the Last Supper, wept over the city of Jerusalem. The spot held beautiful views of the city we have called home and found our Christian roots in over the past few days. We were reminded by our leader John that Christ desires to continue to pour out His blessings and graces upon our pilgrimage. Christ always desires more for each of us because He loves each of us so very much.
St Margaret friends with Jerusalem in the background.
Our School of Faith pilgrimage group!
After lunch, we departed for the region of Galilee. Here, we will trace the footsteps of Jesus and his ministry.we are staying at s hotel in Tiberius on the Sea of Galilee. I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for us during the remaining days of our pilgrimage.
Jesus, thank you for this incredible gift of pilgrimage. Continue to draw me closer to you each day, and may this pilgrimage strengthen me in my pilgrimage towards you in this life and the next. Amen
Blessings,
Julie
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