Journey of Faith - A Beginning in Jerusalem

On the weekend of January 30-31, 2026, sixteen young participants of the St. James Vicariate, from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Beer Sheva, gathered in Jerusalem for the first weekend of the Journey of Faith of the Vicariate. This opening encounter marked the beginning of a shared journey that will lead the youth through the different communities of the Vicariate across Israel.

From the very first moments, the weekend was marked by openness, curiosity, and a deep sense of connection. Jerusalem was not only the backdrop but an active companion on the journey, as faith was experienced through prayer, walking, music, silence, and shared meals, lived together rather than explained.

The weekend began with a warm welcome by Fr. Benny and the Jerusalem Kehilla, whose hospitality created an atmosphere of trust and belonging. The theme of the weekend, St. Simeon and St. Anna, became a guiding thread throughout these days, inviting the youth to reflect on patience, attentiveness, and recognizing God’s presence in everyday life.

Sr. Monika shared her Journey of Faith, which was followed by an open time of questions and exchange. Later, gathered around a fireplace, we took time to praise God and pray. Watching the warm glow together created a calm and deeply peaceful moment.On Saturday, after a marvelous breakfast buffet at Notre Dame Center, the journey continued with a visit to the Benedictine Sisters, where Sr. Marie and Sr. Colombe shared an introduction to their vocation. Their witness, combined with prayer and stillness in their new Garden of Contemplation, opened inner spaces for reflection and listening.

Afterwards, we walked down the Mount of Olives, pausing at Gethsemane, then entered the Old City, heading to the Church of the Redeemer. As always, music formed another important step along the way. At the Church of the Redeemer, the youth were first invited to listen to an organ concert, allowing the music to speak directly to the heart. Afterwards, the incredible organist, Michael-Peter Seifried introduced them to the organ itself, opening a deeper understanding of how faith can be expressed powerfully through sound.

A particularly moving moment was the visit to St. Louis Hospital, accompanied by Sr. Barbara. The youth lovingly prepared and arranged flowers themselves before visiting the geriatric ward. Every smile, every handshake became a moment of deep encounter. One woman gently smelled the flowers, visibly delighted, while another moment of insight was offered through a nurse who gave the group a valuable introduction into the daily rhythm

and realities of life in the hospital. These simple gestures opened hearts and connected faith with compassion and real life.

Afterwards, the group took time for Eucharistic Adoration, allowing space for silence and prayer. This led naturally into the celebration of Holy Mass, celebrated together as a community. At the end of the Mass, Fr. Benny blessed each participant for the journey ahead and gifted everyone an image of an icon of St. Simeon and St. Anna, the spiritual focus of the weekend.

Throughout the weekend, the youth were accompanied by Danielle, Monika, and Ezraela. Our sincere thanks also go to the team at the New Gate Hostel, whose generous hospitality helped the youth feel truly at home.

This first weekend of the Journey of Faith we began to walk together. With these 16 participants, the journey has started with depth, trust, and hope and it now continues through the communities of the St. James Vicariate across Israel.