Moving to Galilee

Today we were preparing to depart for Galilee, where our Lord Jesus performed much of his public ministry. The first month we have spent together as pilgrims from Mundelein has had an incredible spiritual impact in our lives. It is always sad to leave a place you have come to love, but this sadness is turned into joy as we continue on our pilgrimage to other holy sites. The spiritual fruits and experiences which we have experienced at the holy sites we have visited so far will never leave us. They will always remain within us, as we grow closer to holiness. One can say that our time in has been a time of inner transformation and a better understanding of Scripture.

As future ministers of the Church and disciples of our Lord, it is important that we also spend some time in those areas where he carried out his ministry. Visiting these sites and contemplating his work in these areas allows us to see the importance and value of the work ahead of us.  Visiting and praying in the different areas where our Lord carried out his ministry will enable us to better understand the New Testament. Visiting the different sites which we often read about in the New Testament is not only very important, but it is also a prayer in itself. It is an indirect way of saying to Jesus, “Teach me as you taught those who listened to you in these places.” Saying this also compels the pilgrim to be open and willing to be taught. Continuing with the spirit of the pilgrimage and staying focused on Christ will always bring a lot of joy within each pilgrim.