Magdala announced the release of its Virtual Advent Pilgrimage of Peace. Due to the ongoing conflict in the Holy Land, pilgrims are unable to visit Bethlehem and other holy sites this Advent and Christmas season. Important Christmas traditions usually held in Jerusalem and Bethlehem can no longer be celebrated by locals or visitors this year.

Kathleen Nichols, Director of Magdala Media’s English team, explained that the Advent Pilgrimage of Peace will give people from all over the world the opportunity to visit the Holy Land virtually this season. The weekly video includes a reflection on the Biblical meaning of peace from holy sites including Magdala, Nazareth, Ein Karem – the place of the Visitation and birth of John the Baptist, and of course Bethlehem. Kathleen and her small team made the journey into Palestine to film the now empty sites connected with Christ’s birth, hoping that virtual pilgrims can fill them with prayers for peace from all over the world.  Videos and an Advent calendar with daily reflections will be released weekly on each Sunday of Advent, beginning on December 2, 2023.

Pilgrims who were obliged to cancel their trips to the Holy Land have expressed their gratitude to Magdala for putting together a virtual pilgrimage amidst the difficulties. “It will allow me and my mother to experience Bethlehem and pray for peace in the actual location of the birth of the Christ-child. We were so disappointed when the pilgrimage was canceled, but at least we can be present in some real way through Kathleen’s video and prayer,” wrote a woman from the United States.

The staff at Magdala feel blessed to have this opportunity to bring followers closer to Christ during the 2023 Advent Season. Magdala, located on the biblical town of Magdala, is a catalyst of worldwide reconciliation and renewal. The site, which includes a guest house, gift shop, and the worship center Duc In Altum, also includes one of the most important archeological sites in the Holy Land, and various places designed to inspire reflection.

To participate in the 2023 Advent Pilgrimage of Peace, click https://email.magdala.org/t/y-l-xswlk-irudjjwv-h/ and follow along on Magdala’s website, Instagram account, and YouTube account.