Holy Land 2022: Day One

DAY ONE: TRAVEL DALLAS – TEL AVIV
Our 2022 Saint Michael Family Holy Land Pilgrimage is off! Thirty-nine pilgrims safely arrived in Israel and settled in for a night of jet-lagged rest. This pilgrimage is the second family pilgrimage for Saint Michael, the first taking place in 2019. Originally scheduled to be March 2021, these pilgrims registered for this trip two weeks before the mass quarantine of 2020, so they have anticipated this trip for two years. I know it will be worth the wait!
Speaking of worth the wait, the timing for our trip could not have been better. Israel only just reopened holy sites throughout the country on March 1. We are touring during the literal second week of post-pandemic reality in Israel, and our tour guide promises that the crowds will reflect the new guidance. In other words, most people havenât planned pilgrimage trips to Israel because of so much uncertainty. But never fear, we prayed hard and rolled the dice and it looks like we are here at the right time by the grace of God!
Our first day of touring will be tomorrow (Saturday). We will spend the day around Jerusalem and in Bethlehem. It will be so appropriate to begin with a history of the amazing city of Jerusalem and the site where Jesus was born. This blog will be updated daily with pictures, stories, and explanations about the sites we visit. If youâve been to the Holy Land in the past, join us to reminisce about your own experience. If you still hope to go someday, this blog will be a wonderful way to experience the beauty, history, and spiritual awe of this truly holy land. Feel free to share this link with anyone who will enjoy it, too!
I ask your continued prayers for our pilgrims. This is the kind of trip that can transform oneâs faith in profound ways, and I truly hope for that experience for each person here. And I will pray for you, too, as you join us in spirit!
Blessings,
Chris