Priest from Mumbai joins international group arriving at Jaffa Gate

A group of pilgrims from nine countries reached Jerusalem’s Jaffa Gate on Thursday. They had just finished a five-day trek along a section of the 111-kilometer Way to Jerusalem route. The group included visitors from India, Germany, Italy, South Korea, France, Spain, the United Kingdom, Austria, and Hong Kong.

Joshan, a Catholic priest from Mumbai, India, stood near the ancient walls as the group approached the city. He told reporters that seeing the walls for the first time left him feeling humbled. For him, the moment marked the culmination of his religious vocation. He described the experience as the most beautiful sight for a pilgrim.

The pilgrimage was organized by Golan Rice and Yael Tarasiuk-Nevo. The Tourism Ministry hosted the event. The initiative aims to revive historic walking routes that lead to Israel’s capital. It seeks to allow both international visitors and local residents to experience the country’s religious heritage, archaeological landmarks, and communities on foot.

The group visited several sites during the five days. Stops included historic and religious locations in Jaffa, Rishon LeZion, Ramle, Tel Gezer, Latrun, and Ein Karem. Tarasiuk-Nevo explained that the route brings together sites associated with Jewish and Christian history. She noted that pilgrims encounter various religious traditions along the way, including the Trappist monastery at Latrun and the Benedictine community in Abu Ghosh.

Ariella, a pilgrim from Hong Kong, found the physical demands of the journey harder than expected. She had prepared by going to the gym and taking daily 45-minute walks. However, she was surprised by the distances covered. She recalled walking 15 kilometers every day and taking 25,000 steps. Despite the fatigue, she praised the support team and the organizers for encouraging the group.

Joon, a pilgrim from South Korea, also expressed strong emotions upon arriving. He told reporters that he was very impressed by the ancient walls. He said he was really enjoying the moment that he finally made it to the destination. For Joshan, who was visiting Israel for the first time, the journey held particular meaning because of his role as a priest. He said his calling, faith, and vocation were coming together as he beheld the walls.

Tarasiuk-Nevo stated that the journey allows pilgrims to develop their own spiritual connection to Jerusalem. She said the route gives a platform for everyone to connect according to their own belief and interpretation. This approach allows for a personal engagement with the historical sites rather than a singular narrative.

At the concluding ceremony, Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Yael Biton de Lange addressed the group. She thanked the pilgrims for visiting Israel during a difficult period. She noted that the country had been following three years of war. She described the pilgrims as pioneers and hoped they would leave Jerusalem as ambassadors.

Biton de Lange encouraged the group to share their experiences with others upon returning home. She said their voices could make a difference and their stories could reach others. She added that sharing these experiences could help people see Israel, Jerusalem, and Jerusalemites through new eyes.