Description

The Third Week of the Via Palma Pilgrimage: The Spiritual Part

Day 1: Jaffa to Lod

Departing from Jaffa, we navigate through the bustling streets towards the Russian church in Abu Kabir, honoring Talitha Kumi. Our journey leads us to the Crusader fortress of Yazur, skirting busy roads and crossing fields to Ramla and Lod. We will explore the historical sites associated with Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea in Ramla, concluding our day at the tomb of St. George, the patron saint of pilgrims, in Lod. Our return to the Sadot Hotel, which we passed by in the morning, will be followed by an evening lecture on the significance of Jerusalem.

Day 2: Lod to Neve Shalom

Starting again from Lod, we head towards Gamzo and the Modi’in forests, linking up with the Israel Trail. Our path winds through ancient settlements, forests, and plantations to the outskirts of Modi’in, and onward to the Ayalon Valley towards the Arnoldi Citadel in Tel Ayalon. From there, we journey through Latrun Park to Neve Shalom, a unique community in Israel. The day concludes with an evening lecture on Christian mysticism and Marian devotion at the Dumia Spiritual Center, with overnight accommodation in Neve Shalom.

Day 3: Neve Shalom to Abu Gosh

Our day begins with visits to the three Christian landmarks of Latrun: Emmaus, the Templar Citadel, and the Monastery. We’ll navigate the trails of Latrun Park to Shaar HaGai, then ascend the ancient Roman road to Yad Hashmona and Neve Ilan, culminating our day in the Abu Gosh area. This evening, before our final approach to Jerusalem, pilgrims will have time for personal reflection.

Day 4: Entering Jerusalem

The journey continues with a visit to Abu Gosh, exploring the Monastery of Our Lady of the Ark of the Covenant, the Saxtum Center, and the Benedictine Crusader Church. We’ll then proceed to the Aqua Bella complex, ascend to Mevaseret Zion on the mountain, and descend Nahal Khalil to the Cedar Valley at the outskirts of Jerusalem. Entering the city, we’ll walk along Jaffa Road, reaching our journey’s end at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Price:

Upon request

Modi’in forest