Holy Land pilgrimage

Published January 18, 2019

Father John Wakube, pastor at Immaculate Conception in North Little Rock, recently led a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Pilgrims visited the Holy Sepulcher, walked and prayed the Stations of the Cross, saw the Mount of Olives and the Dead Sea Scroll site, rode a camel in Jericho, renewed their baptismal vows at the Jordan River and floated on the Dead Sea.

Parishioner Carol Menna said the most touching moment came when the pilgrims were on a boat on the Sea of Galilee.

“It brought tears for many when the captain of the boat hoisted the American flag as we sang ‘America the Beautiful.’ It was a very dreary overcast day, looking like it would rain at any minute. A beautiful surprise Mass was planned on board. As Father John raised the host during Mass, a ray of sunlight peeked out lighting the water. It was as if Jesus showed his presence.”