Pilgrimage to the Holy Land during Lent 2023

MARCH 3–13, 2023

Co-leaders: The Very Rev. Steven L. Thomason and The Rev. Katherine Sedwick

UPDATE 12/6/22: This pilgrimage was at capacity, but due to some cancellations, a few spots have opened up. Contact Dean Thomason if you are interested.

Every Christian is encouraged to make pilgrimage to the Holy Land during their lifetime if they are able. Walking in the footsteps of our spiritual ancestors—matriarchs and patriarchs, prophets, apostles, and martyrs brings the scriptures to life in profound ways. Walking in the footsteps of Jesus is a transformative experience that affords conversion of life. Join Dean Thomason and the Rev. Katherine Sedwick, rector of St. Michael and All Angels Church, Issaquah, as they co-lead a Lenten pilgrimage. There is space for 30 pilgrims who will stay seaside in Galilee, then in Bethlehem and within the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem. The shape of this 11-day trip is contemplative and communal, drawing on the ancient wisdom of generations of Christians who have held the rhythms of worship, prayer, and life in community in this Holy Land. Those who make the trip will have a keen sense of taking their place in the long lineage of pilgrims who have traveled to the same holy sites for two thousand years. The spirits of these faithful forebears will buoy our spirits as we make our way.

We also will engage people who call this special place home while exploring the realities of the Palestinian/Israeli conflict. We will worship with our sisters and brothers in Christ in Nazareth and Jerusalem at Episcopal churches, and we will celebrate the Eucharist at holy sites that bear witness to Jesus’ ministry in those same places.

To the first disciples in Galilee who were curious, or even longing for something more in their lives, Jesus says, “Come and see,” and we receive the same invitation even today, as followers of Christ. Come and see.

For more information, click here or contact Dean Thomason.