2017 Holy Land Pilgrimage and brochure launched
On 3 September, Bishop Harold Miller joined former and prospective pilgrims in St Molua’s, Stormont, for the launch of the 2017 Holy Land Pilgrimage and an accompanying brochure. The bishop, a former pilgrim, described his trip as, “Undoubtedly one of the most wonderful experiences of my life”.
The rector of Stormont, Canon David Humphries, has been leading an annual pilgrimage for around 20 years and the Hamilton Hall was set up with an exhibition of books, artefacts and photos. Guests were also treated to a beautiful Mediterranean–style lunch prepared by ladies from the parish.
Ms Rosemary Nutt, a working Director of McCabe Travel which facilitates the pilgrimages, flew over especially for the launch. Rosemary has been with McCabe for 20 years and as well as being responsible for Operations and Accounts, is an expert on Pilgrimage to the Holy Land. She showed a short film of the McCabe pilgrimage experience and described how the company works mainly with Christians in the Holy Land and, where possible, with family–run businesses.
The McCabe Educational Trust also partners three organisations in the Holy Land, one of which is Jeel Al Amal Boys Home in Bethany. Every McCabe pilgrim will visit at least one of these remarkable projects as part of their itinerary.
David outlined the workings of a spiritual journey and how the Holy Land pilgrimage has impacted the lives of so many Irish Christians. He also talked about some of the practicalities of the trip and answered questions from prospective pilgrims.
Bishop Harold related his own very positive, ‘incarnational’ experience of Holy Land pilgrimage led by David and McCabe Travel and officially launched the new colour brochure.
The brochure explores the nature of pilgrimage and Holy Land pilgrimage in particular and it is hoped that it will encourage readers to prayerfully consider joining in the next spiritual journey.
The leaders of the pilgrimage, Canon David Humphries and the Revd Amanda Adams, are available to talk to church groups at their weekday meetings, by arrangement. (028 9048 2292).