CHRISTIAN
HOLY PILGRIMAGE
GUIDED CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS TOUR TO MIDDLE EAST AND EUROPE
As Christians, many of us have a deep desire to visit the Holy Land of Israel at least once in our lifetime. This pilgrimage is not just a sightseeing experience but an opportunity to establish a physical and spiritual connection to the places and stories we have read in the Bible. How exciting it will be climbing Mount Sinai, floating on the Dead Sea, standing at Mount Olives and looking over Jerusalem, taking a selfie by the River Jordan, or retracing the path that Jesus Christ took on His way to Mount Calvary. For many, the high cost associated with such a trip prevents this dream from becoming a reality. At Sion Continental Services, we understand this predicament and aim to help individuals and groups fulfill this dream at an affordable price.
We organize separate tours to both Israel and Rome multiple times a year. In special cases, we can arrange dedicated trips for specific groups of up to 20 people.
Below is what a typical 8 day pilgrimage will look like:
On the first day, pilgrims will depart from various airports and gather at Tel Aviv. Upon arrival at Tel Aviv airport, a coach will be waiting to transport all pilgrims to the designated hotel. Depending on the time of arrival, pilgrims may have a meal at the hotel. If the arrival is in the early morning hours, pilgrims may proceed with the scheduled program for the second day
On the second day, pilgrims will depart for Manger Square at around 8 am. They will visit the Grotto of the Nativity, the birthplace of Jesus (Catholics will have the opportunity to celebrate Mass in St Joseph’s Grotto, which is part of the Franciscan Church of the Nativity). The next stop will be Shepherd’s field, where the angels sang the ‘Gloria in Excelcis Deo’ on the night of the first Christmas. Afterward, there will be a two-hour shopping opportunity in Bethlehem. Pilgrims will return to the hotel for Dinner.
An early departure is planned for Jerusalem and the Old City. The itinerary includes a visit to the Western Wall and then a walk to the church of Ecce Homo, built on the site of the Palace of Pilate. Depending on the season, pilgrims may take part in the Stations of the Cross, following the route Jesus walked on the first Good Friday, and concluding at the Holy Sepulchre Basilica, considered the holiest place on earth. Mass may be celebrated in one of the chapels if possible. The tour will also include the Holy Tomb of Jesus, Mt. Calvary, and the Grotto of the True Cross. After a lunch break, the group will visit the Chapel of the Upper Room, the magnificent Dormition Abbey associated with the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, and St Peter’s in Gallicantu. Pilgrims will return to the hotel for dinner.
The day starts with a bus trip to Mt. Olives in Jerusalem, where the group will visit the Ascension Dome and then walk to Dominus Flevit, the site where Jesus wept over Jerusalem. The next stop is the Garden of Gethsemane and the Basilica of the Agony (Church of all Nations). Afterward, the group will drive to Jericho to view the Mt. of Temptation and Zacchaeus’s Sycamore Tree, followed by lunch. The day will conclude with a visit to the Dead Sea for a swimming/floating experience before returning to the hotel for dinner.
The itinerary for this day includes a visit to the Carmel of Bethlehem, a short walk to the place where King David lived as a boy, and a visit to the magnificent chapel of St Joseph. Pilgrims will have an opportunity for additional shopping. They will then return to the hotel for dinner
The group will embark on a drive along the Jordan Valley and visit the impressive Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth, including the Grotto where the Annunciation took place. Mass may be celebrated in the Upper Basilica. The tour will continue with a visit to St Joseph’s Workshop and the Synagogue of Jesus. The next stop is Cana, where the Church of the Weddings, associated with Jesus’ first miracle, will be visited. Married couples will have the opportunity to renew their marriage vows, and a marriage certificate can be purchased as proof of the renewal. The day will end with a visit to Mt. Tabor and the Church of the Transfiguration before returning to the hotel for dinner.
The group will depart from the hotel and enjoy a sail on the Sea of Galilee, which is one of the highlights of the pilgrimage. This boat ride, lasting approximately 45 minutes, will be on a reproduction of an ancient boat. Afterward, the group will drive to Capernaum and tour the area, visiting the Church of St Peter and the remains of the ancient Synagogue. The tour will also include a visit to Mt. Beatitudes, the site of the Sermon on the Mount, and St Peter’s Primacy, where Christ appeared to the Apostles after His Resurrection. The group will then drive to the Church of the Feeding of the 5,000 and proceed to the River Jordan for the renewal of Baptismal Vows. Afterward, they will return to the hotel for dinner.
The final day of the pilgrimage will include a visit to Ein Karem, where the Visitation Shrine of Our Lady to St. Elizabeth is located. The group will also visit St John the Baptist’s birthplace along the same road. The journey will then continue to the airport for the return flight home.
NOTE: The above itinerary is subject to change. Additional sites may be visited based on the preferences and interests of the group, such as Jordan or Mt. Sinai. The quotation provided covers transportation (air and land), accommodation, three meals a day, and entrance fees to all the holy sites. It is customary to give tips to the driver and tour guide towards the end of the pilgrimage. Health and travel insurance is not included in the quotation, and each pilgrim is responsible for making their own insurance arrangements. Assistance can be provided for an additional fee if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
The duration of the process may vary depending on the specific program and individual circumstances. It is best to contact Sion Continental Services for an accurate timeline.
The cost of the program can vary based on factors such as the duration of study, specific school or institution, and additional services provided. For detailed information on the fees, please reach out to Sion Continental Services.
The required documents may include academic transcripts, identification documents (passport), proof of English language proficiency, recommendation letters, and other specific requirements set by the school or program. Sion Continental Services will provide a comprehensive list of the necessary documents.