Footsteps of Jesus

Theme: The Birth of Jesus 

This morning we firstly travel out to Ein Karem and ascend the hill to the Church of the Visitation where Mary visited Elizabeth and proclaimed her Magnificat prayer – ‘My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord’. From here we come to the Church of St John the Baptist, built over a natural grotto identified as the saint’s actual birthplace.

Continue to Shepherd’s Field to celebrate a joyous Christmas Mass in a local cave to commemorate the appearance of the angels to the shepherds on that first Holy Night.

Back in Bethlehem we visit the spectacular Church of the Nativity, the oldest complete church in the Christian world (6^th century) and birthplace of Jesus. Bow low and enter the grotto through the Door of Humility as we descend to the Holy Manger where a silver star in the floor marks the actual spot where Jesus was born. The star’s inscription reads in Latin: Hic de Virgine Maria Jesus Christus Natus Est (Here of the Virgin Mary Jesus Christ was born). 

Finally, we come to St Jerome’s Cave where in 386 AD the saint spent 30 years translating the scriptures from Hebrew into Greek and Latin producing the first vernacular version of the Bible! 

Bethlehem overnight (BD)

OPTIONAL CONSIDERATION

Visit the Holy Child Program which serves as a sanctuary of safety for the families of the region. The program facilitates the acquisition and development of new skills, recovery, and rehabilitation from trauma, builds resiliency and instils hope for the future through a community of caring, committed professionals. We will learn of their extraordinary work in upholding the dignity of these children’s lives before opening our hearts and minds to serve alongside them (subject to school holidays).

Theme: Ancient Desert Encounters

We farewell Bethlehem this morning and journey east along the Jericho Road where we recall the parable of the Good Samaritan. Soon we arrive at the Jordan River Baptismal site (Qasr Al Yehoud), an archeological discovery said to be the actual location where Jesus was Baptised. Celebrate Mass here as we renew our own Baptismal promises.

We then travel to the shores of the Dead Sea. Here we will take the exciting opportunity to float in the salty waters said to have healing qualities. 

Onwards to Jericho, the ‘City of Palms’, said to be the oldest inhabited city in the world and most famous oasis dating back to around 9000 BC. Stop by the famous Sycamore tree used to commemorate the powerful story of the tax collector Zacchaeus. Across the valley we view the Mt of Temptation, the site of Jesus’ fast of 40 days and there are enough stones to illustrate Satan’s words “If you are the son of God, tell these stones to turn into loaves”. 

After a lunch stop in Jericho, journey north to Tiberias on the shores of Lake Galilee … “Go to Galilee and you will find him there” (Mt 28:7). 

Sea of Galilee overnight (BD)

Theme: The Formative Years of Jesus 

Today we travel north through the Jordan valley before arriving into Nazareth, the hometown of Jesus’ childhood. We begin our pilgrimage at the Basilica of the Annunciation where a traditional cave becomes the focal point to Mary’s response to the Angel Gabriel “Let it be done to me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). After celebrating Mass we will visit the nearby Church of St Joseph to commemorate the life of Mary’s beloved spouse. We then enter the nearby Synagogue Church, built on the site where Jesus read the Messianic passage in Isaiah 61 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me” … 

Continue onto Nazareth Village, an authentic non-profit re-creation of the village life of Nazareth as in the days of Jesus. Here we will take a parable-rich walk back in time along the path which brings to life the environment and atmosphere which shaped Jesus’ early years and ministry. Complete our memorable visit with a fascinating Biblical Meal in the original setting of a first-century house.

Travel east this afternoon and on to the village of Cana where Jesus, at the request of His Mother, performed His first miracle transforming the water into wine at the wedding feast (Jn 2:1-12).

Sea of Galilee overnight (BLD)

Theme: Galilee encounters with Jesus 

Set off early to a secret location down by the shores of Lake Galilee to enjoy Breakfast with Jesus in the spirit of John 21:12 when Jesus said to His disciples “Come and have breakfast”. ‘Taste and See’ the Gospels as we recount together this passage of Scripture live on location! 

Then set out on a spectacular day of pilgrimage as we firstly board a traditional ‘Jesus Boat’ sailing vessel for a special Harvest highlight – a Private Mass in the centre of Lake Galilee. Here we will turn off the motors and float in quiet tranquility and reflect upon the miracles of Jesus calming the storm and appearing to the apostles walking on this very water. 

Back on shore, see the 1st century ‘Jesus boat’ painstakingly raised and restored from the muddy lakebed in 1986. 

Continue onto Capernaum, the once fishing village of the first apostles Peter, Andrew, James & John which also became the hometown of Jesus and the scene of many of His miracles.

After our St Peter’s Fish lunch, we will journey north to Caesarea Philippi where the beautiful springs of Banias form the source of the Jordan River. It was here where Jesus asked the disciples “Who do you say I am?” and went on to commission Peter “On this rock I will build my Church”.

Sea of Galilee overnight (BLD)

Theme: The Public Ministry of Jesus 

An early start this morning as we rise to the summit of Mt Arbel before the breaking of dawn and await the majestic sunrise over the Sea of Galilee.

From here we will continue on a pre-breakfast walk along a spectacular stretch of the actual Jesus Trail frequented by Our Lord between Nazareth and Capernaum. This well-worn shepherd’s path through the Valley of the Doves offers a rare and genuine opportunity to prayerfully tread the actual footsteps of Jesus down through the rustic pass between the mountains that has changed little since the days of the Gospels.

After breakfast back at our hotel we head to the Mount of Beatitudes for a beautiful Mass here in the tranquil gardens to ponder Jesus’ message of blessedness in the Sermon on the Mount (Mt 5:1–12).

Nearby visit the Church of the Primacy of Peter down by the shores of the lake. Here Jesus challenged Peter and each one of us ‘Do you really love me? Feed my sheep.’ 

Onwards to the adjacent site of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes (Mt 14:20) to explore the 4th-century church displaying Byzantine mosaics considered to be some of the best in the Holy Land.

AFTERNOON FREE – ADVENTURE WATER SLIDE PARK OPTION / OR REST

Sea of Galilee overnight (BD)

Theme: Mountains of the Lord

We depart the beautiful shores of Galilee and travel to Mt Tabor. Here Our Lord’s divinity shone forth in the Transfiguration (Mt 17:1-2). In this breathtaking setting we will understand Peter’s words ‘Lord it is good for us to be here’. 

From here continue onto the town of Haifa, which is the largest city in Northern Israel, and the third-largest city in the country. The sea wraps around three sides of Haifa with intoxicating blue and gold beaches. Enter here the Stella Maris Monastery at Mount Carmel where in the lower cave, Elijah was said to have meditated on His victory over the false prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:1-40).

We then enjoy lunch in our hand-picked restaurant with spectacular views over the Mediterranean.

After our lunch we visit the House of Grace to hear the inspired story of a Catholic family committed to empowering the most marginalised members of the Haifa community. (This encounter optional.)

In the afternoon we travel south to the crusader port of Caesarea Maritima, built by Herod the Great. The centurion Cornelius was baptized here by Peter, becoming the first gentile convert to Christianity (Acts 10). Also see the harbour from which St Paul was taken to Rome.

Finally, we journey on and up to Jerusalem – the City of our God. Here on the eve of Shabbat we come to witness hundreds of devout Jews chanting prayers at the Western Wall (formerly the Wailing Wall).

Jerusalem overnight (BLD) 

Theme: The Passion of Jesus 

Begin our Jerusalem pilgrimage as we proceed up to the Mt of Olives to visit the ‘Pater Noster’ Church where Jesus taught His disciples the Lord’s Prayer (Mt 6:7–15). Walk down the Palm Sunday Road as pilgrims to the Dominus Flevit Church for Mass, built on the site where Jesus wept over Jerusalem (Lk 19:41–44). 

We then come down to the Garden of Gethsemane where we will enter the Church of the Agony containing the rock upon which Jesus is said to have prayed before his arrest. Prepare then for a memorable pilgrim highlight as we gain private group access inside the adjacent ‘Garden of Betrayal‘, for an extended time of prayer and reflection, surrounded by ancient olive trees dating back to the time of Christ.

From here we set out by coach across town to the Israel Museum for a lunch break. View the Second Temple Scale Model of Jerusalem as it was in the time of Jesus. In the adjacent Shrine of the Book Museum we will soon gaze upon parts of the original Dead Sea Scrolls with our own eyes.

Continue back to Mt Zion to the Palace of Caiaphas and into the Church of St Peter in Gallicantu commemorating Peter’s triple denial of Jesus. Here our pilgrimage moves towards the final phase of Jesus’ passion. Enter the Cenacle room of the Last Supper (Upper Room) where we commemorate the institution of the Eucharist and the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Continue to the Church of the Dormition identified as the place where the Virgin Mary died or ‘fell asleep’ as the name suggests. 

Jerusalem overnight (BD)

Theme: Death, Resurrection & Ascension of Jesus

We rise at dawn and return to the Old City to commence our Stations of the Cross following in Our Lord’s footsteps along the actual Via Dolorosa. We culminate at the site of Calvary where we will celebrate Mass here in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Walk the stairway climbing to the actual site where the Cross of Jesus once stood. After Mass here enter the Tomb of Christ, the site believed to be where Our Lord lay buried for three days before rising from the dead.

After Breakfast at our hotel, continue to the Church of St Anne with its magnificent acoustics and built over the birthplace of the Virgin Mary. See the adjacent Pool of Bethesda where Jesus healed the paralysed man (Jn 5:2-9).

We then return up to the Mt of Olives to the Chapel of the Ascension which is believed to mark the place where Jesus ascended into heaven. A befitting end to our chronological pilgrimage in His footsteps as we recall Jesus’ Great Commission to the eleven disciples: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” – Mt 28:18

Remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Before dinner we gather to listen to the courageous stories of the Bereaved Parents Circle where both a Palestinian and Israeli family members will share their extraordinary journey from grief and loss to a stunning reconciliation that is sure to inspire us deeply. (This encounter optional.)

Jerusalem overnight (BD)

Departing the Holy Land, we join the streams of young pilgrims converging today on Lisbon, the World Youth Day host city and our long-awaited meeting with the youth of the world and our Holy Father.

Upon our arrival, we will be welcomed and ushered to our designated place of accommodation. At this point we will receive our WYD pilgrim’s bag containing the WYD handbook, tourist guide, pilgrim pass, transport card and all the information you need to get around Lisbon and participate in the WYD events.

Lisbon overnight (BD)

Theme: “Mary arose and went with haste.” (Lk 1:39)

AM: MORNING WALKING TOUR OF LISBONThis morning we meet our guide and enjoy a walking tour of Lisbon city. From the scenic Garden of San Pedro de Alcantara – taking in sweeping views of the city, to its narrow streets of the picturesque Alfama district, bustling plazas, and along the riverfront – stopping in Lisbon’s most beautiful and historic churches all along the way. 

PM: WYD OPENING CEREMONIES

AM: MORNING CATECHESISThere will be opportunities for Catechesis, Daily Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

PM: YOUTH FESTIVAL EVENTSFeaturing music, dance and dramatic performances from around the world in small and large stadiums and venues across the city.

AM: MORNING CATECHESISThere will be opportunities for Catechesis, Daily Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

PM: YOUTH FESTIVAL EVENTSFeaturing music, dance and dramatic performances from around the world in small and large stadiums and venues across the city.

PM: WELCOMING CEREMONIES FOR THE HOLY FATHER

AM: MORNING CATECHESISThere will be opportunities for Catechesis, Daily Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

PM: YOUTH FESTIVAL EVENTSFeaturing music, dance and dramatic performances from around the world in small and large stadiums and venues across the city.

PM: STATIONS OF THE CROSSThe focus tonight is on the moving Way of the Cross when we as young pilgrims will contemplate the reality of Christ’s passion and the call to true freedom.

Today will begin the mass mobilisation of pilgrims along set walking paths through the city as we converge on the site chosen for the historic WYD gathering here in Lisbon.

An afternoon of concerts, performances, and song will unfold as we await the arrival of the Holy Father. This begins the main event! Multitudes of young people together with the Pope – a summer evening of unforgettable atmosphere. The celebrations continue all night as we share in a global sleep-out under the stars.

WYD Vigil Site Sleepout (WYD BLD)

As the sun rises, we’ll share in Morning Prayer, breakfast and the climactic WYD Papal Mass with the youth of the world. 

AM: MORNING MASS WITH THE HOLY FATHERThe Pope will concelebrate Mass with thousands of bishops and priests, addressing us and sending us out to the world to witness to our faith, as the Lord did with his Apostles. At the end of the Mass, the Holy Father will announce the place where the next international World Youth Day will be held.

PM: PILGRIMAGE WALK BACK TO LODGINGS

Today we farewell Lisbon for the tranquillity and relaxation of our Post WYD Retreat in the Fatima area. As we depart out of the city, see Europe’s longest suspension bridge and view the inspiring Statue of Christ the King pointing the way north to Fatima. 

Enroute, we will visit the Holy Miracle Church of St Stephen at Santarem containing the oldest recorded Eucharistic miracle.

Arriving at our post-WYD retreat lodgings, we will spend the following days entering into a time of rest, recreation and retreat, as we unwind and process the amazing past days on pilgrimage and WYD experiences.

Fatima area overnight (BD)

This morning we travel to Fatima, where in 1917 the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to three children as ‘a lady in white’. We will enjoy a tour of the Square (the largest square in Christendom) including the site of the Apparitions, Rosary Basilica with the Tombs of the visionaries, the Museum, Blessed Sacrament Chapel and other main sites. 

Back at our lodgings this afternoon, we enter a time of retreat, prayer and recreation. 

Fatima area overnight (BLD) 

We travel back to Fatima this morning where we will walk and pray the Stations along the beautiful Way of the Cross (the Sacred Way) culminating in the Chapel of Calvary which overlooks all of Fatima. Continue to Valinhos, the site of Our Lady’s appearance to three peasant children Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta. Proceed on to the little village of Aljustrel to visit the homes where the children lived. Finally, we enter the original Parish church and see the Baptismal font where the children were baptised. 

Back at our lodgings this afternoon, we enter a time of retreat, prayer and recreation. 

Fatima area overnight (BLD) 

Today we will be transferred to the airport for our homebound flight connections to Australia. (B)