Pilgrimage

Editor’s note: This November, first-time and repeat pilgrims will travel to Israel and Palestine (with the option to also visit Jordan). Fr Robert Hendrickson (Saint Philip’s Rector)and Cn John Kitagawa (Saint Philip’s former Rector) will lead the group, and Shirin McArthur (parishioner) will serve as spiritual director.

Below is a letter from John Kitagawa’s wife, Kathy, that shares what she and John experience during pilgrimage, and a brief description of what to expect.

John and I are blessed by the opportunity to return to the Holy Land this November. Even after multiple trips, John and I find that each visit enriches our faith and our perspectives on life in this part of the world.

Our hearts and minds are touched in new ways each time by the sites visited, religious and non-religious art, conversations with faith leaders and residents, current events, tour guide perspectives, fellow pilgrims, and worship experiences. It is always thrilling to hear fellow pilgrims’ expectations prior to the journey and then learn what impacts them during and after our time together.

Plan on high activity as walking is the best way to explore many of the sites. Cobblestones, uneven surfaces, and ancient stairs are common. Walking sticks have been used and appreciated by several pilgrims. (The top of my walking stick/monopod is visible in the picture above.)

If you join us for the Jordan extension at the end of the trip, we will ride horseback or walk for a mile through the famous Siq (natural gorge) to reach the Treasury at Petra.

A Holy Land Pilgrimage with this community of faith will create unforgettable memories. Register today!

Peace, Shalom, Salaam,

Kathy Kitagawa