Take an armchair pilgrimage
Sections of the ancient Roman road can be found in Jerusalem. (NTC/Susan Moses)
For most of us, the 7,000 miles that separate our diocese and Jerusalem puts the Holy Land out of reach.
The next best thing, however, can be achieved in your favorite recliner or within the boundaries of the diocese.
Here are some ideas to enhance your knowledge and devotion to the land where Jesus lived:
- Enjoy a slow trek through a book about the Holy Land. Many of your favorite Catholic authors have published books filled with photos, commentaries, and meditations.
- The Stations of the Cross are not just for Lent. Several parishes have outdoor statues, or arrive early at your parish to pray and reflect on each station to walk with our Lord on His Way of the Cross.
- Spend time poring over a map of the Holy Land, taking note of where the familiar towns are located. Next, check out a map of the Old City of Jerusalem and find the Temple, Garden of Gethsemane, the Mount of Olives, and other sites frequently mentioned in the Gospels.
- Experience the Holy Land virtually. You’ll find many tour videos of Jerusalem on YouTube. Just recently, actor Jonathan Roumie of “The Chosen” and biblical scholar Jeff Cavins partnered to create a video series titled “Holy Week in the Holy Land” that can be found on the Hallow app.
- Pray for the Holy Land and the people who live there. “For the peace of Jerusalem pray: ‘May those who love you prosper! May peace be within your ramparts, prosperity within your towers.’” (Psalm 122:6-7)
Fr. Petta encourages the faithful to contemplate the land where Jesus was born, lived, and died, whether or not they are able to make a pilgrimage in person.
He said, “It doesn’t matter if you go there or don’t go there. You’re thinking about an actual place that exists in time and in space. “It’s not up in the clouds. It’s not a myth. It’s not something that might have been or could have been. There’s just too much evidence,” the priest continued.
Reflections from the author on her March 2025 visit to Israel: The sights and sounds of the Holy Land, even if virtual, bring new understanding to Jesus’ humanity
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