Catholic leaders in the Holy Land called on Christian pilgrims to return to the region following the implementation of the long-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
A joint video posted on the Franciscan Custody’s X account, shows the Latin patriarch, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and the custos of the Holy Land, Franciscan Father Francesco Patton, walking through the alleys of the Old City of Jerusalem speaking with Palestinian shopkeepers and pilgrims. The two leaders emphasized the safety in the Holy Land and the importance of Christian pilgrimage not only for the pilgrims but also for the local Christian community.
“It is very important to come and to renew the spirit of pilgrimage. … This is one of the three holy places indicated for the pilgrimage during the Jubilee for the Holy Land,” said Father Patton.
“We are waiting for you because when you come as pilgrims to the Holy Land our small Christian community feels that we are part of a great family that is the great family of the Christians of the Catholic Church, of the Christians living all around the world, and so please don’t fear, don’t be afraid. Come, the pilgrimage is safe and we are waiting for you.”
To read more: https://www.osvnews.com/pilgrimages-are-safe-holy-land-church-leaders-say-telling-pilgrims-were-waiting-for-you/
By Judith Sudilovsky | osvnews
