Our Salesian Youth Ministry pilgrims are coming to the end of their time in the Holy Land. The group of 23, which includes teachers and lay chaplains, priests and brothers, began their journey in Nazareth, praying and reflecting at the site of the Annunciation on how as Salesians we can bring Jesus into the lives of those we serve in our schools, parishes, chaplaincies and youth work.

The second day was spent around the sea of Galiee, with a memorable mass on the shore, before moving on to Jerusalem. During a visit to the Salesian University at Ratisbonne, Alison Burrowes, Thornleigh Headteacher, and Fr Bob Gardner were delighted to meet a friend from Tanzania, Br Francis, who is studying there.

The pilgrims found their visit to the Mount of Olives and the Garden of Gethsemane powerfully moving, as they spent time in prayer at the spot where Jesus suffered his agony.

In Bethlehem, the group made another visit to the Salesian Family at the Salesian school and oratory, where several of them were delighted to meet up with friends they had made at Confronto 2017.

We wish our pilgrims further blessings in the remaining days of their pilgrimage, and a safe journey home.

Photos and info: Dan Antonio, Sue McDonald, Alison Burrowes, via Twitter