Archbishop Eamon Martin today set off on an eight-day pilgrimage of solidarity to the Holy Land accompanied by 177 pilgrims drawn from all around Ireland.
Setting out from Dublin Airport the pilgrims’ itinerary includes visits to sites associated with the earthly life of Christ.
The pilgrimage will have a particular focus on demonstrating solidarity with the local Christian community.
Speaking ahead of the pilgrimage Archbishop Martin, who is from Derry, said: “I am glad to be part of this pilgrimage of prayerful solidarity to the Holy Land. Our presence with God’s people there is much appreciated. It reminds them that they are not forgotten and it brings to the gloom of their suffering a glimpse of Easter hope and joy.
“Many of the Christians in the Holy Land feel isolated, alone and discouraged. They are fearful of being neglected or even forgotten by their brothers and sisters in other parts of the world. They have asked for our support and our pilgrimage is a tangible expression of our solidarity at this time of their suffering which has come about from persecution because of their faith, and by social and economic marginalisation.”
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