The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem
Two opportunities are being offered in the coming months for people to explore the roots of the Gospel and answer the call to serve their brothers and sisters.
From Jan. 18 to 30, Paul O’Keeffe, OFM, of Boston, will lead a mission trip to South Africa, where participants will explore the legacy of apartheid and witness the Catholic Church’s work with the poor. While in the country, missioners will visit children orphaned by HIV and AIDS, and experience life in the townships and rural Zululand. The trip’s description invites interested persons to “discover the beauty and diversity of South African culture while enjoying the warm hospitality of its people.”
Space is limited. To reserve a place or to obtain more information, contact Paul, the Province’s secretary of missionary evangelization, at 617-542-6440 ext. 251 or email him a pokeeffe@thefranciscans.org. Through his work with the Franciscan Mission Service, Paul has traveled extensively to countries in Africa.
St. Anthony Shrine is also offering an educational travel experience. In May 2015, people are invited to experience “the fifth Gospel” on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Gene Pistacchio, OFM, staff member Jackie Stewart and licensed local guide and biblical scholar Anton Farah will lead the May 19 to 29 trip.
Travelers will visit places of significance in the Gospels, including Bethsaida, Capernaum, the Mount of Beatitudes, Jericho, Nazareth, the Jordan River, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Shepherd’s Field, the Mount of Olives, Gethsemane, Emmaus, and Temple Mount. A boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and the Way of the Cross on the Via Dolorosa will be included. Mass will be celebrated daily.
Round trip airfare from Boston and accommodations are included in the cost. Registrations are being accepted by Carmel Tours. For more information, including fees and a full itinerary, contact Jackie Stewart at 617-542-6440 ext. 143 or email SASEvang@gmail.com. Interested participants are reminded to include their name, mailing address and telephone number.
— Compiled by Maria Hayes