When you travel to the Holy Land, you walk the same dusty ground where countless biblical stories unfolded. With your own eyes, you see where miracles took place. These sites allow pilgrims to authentically immerse themselves in the Catholic faith and literally relive scripture.
Sites are divided amongst three regions of the Holy Land – Galilee, West Bank, and Jerusalem. Verso Ministries intentionally incorporates all three regions into its Holy Land pilgrimage to facilitate a truly comprehensive experience of the faith and its history.
Across these regions, heaven meets earth as pilgrims walk the footsteps of Jesus. More than historical sites, these places lend a deep experience for prayer and reflection.
A pilgrimage with Verso Ministries to the Holy Land means traveling to countless sacred sites. Here are six:
Sea of Galilee
A site for many of Jesus’ miracles, including the loaves and the fishes and his walk on the water, the Sea of Galilee is an iconic biblical landmark. Located in the Galilee region, it is also the site of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount where he introduced the Our Father prayer.
The Church of the Annunciation
Set on the site of Mary’s childhood home in Nazareth, located in the Galilee region, the Church of the Annunciation is a popular pilgrimage destination.
According to Catholic tradition, the archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary in her home to announce that she would become the mother of God, otherwise known as the Annunciation (hence the name of the church).
Garden of Gethsemane
Before his crucifixion, Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. The Garden of Gethsemane is located at the foot of the Mount of Olives in the Jerusalem region.
According to the Bible, Jesus prayed so fervently in the garden before his crucifixion that his sweat was like drops of blood. He called out to God, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; still not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Built on Jesus’ crucifixion site and his tomb, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is considered to be one of the Holy Land’s most sacred sites. Located in the Jerusalem region, a portion of the Via Dolorosa, the route for the Holy Land’s Stations of the Cross, is housed inside the church.
Dead Sea
The lowest point on earth and located in the West Bank, the Dead Sea is referenced in various books of the Bible. Known for its salt that allows you to easily float, biblical references of the Dead Sea date back to the Old Testament.
Church of the Nativity
The Church of the Nativity is the site of Jesus’ birth. Located in Bethlehem, it is the oldest Christian church. The Church of the Nativity has one door – it is less than four feet high!
Through intentional prayer and reflection at sites like these, a pilgrimage to the Holy Land elevates faith and sets a new perspective.
Verso Ministries will venture to the Holy Land several times this year. There is still limited room available for our fall departures. We hope that you can join us as we experience all that the Holy Land has to offer!
