Happening Now

Communiqué of the Holy Land Co-ordination
Bishop A. Elias Zaidan and Bishop Joseph Kopacz, January 17-21, 2026

With Peace Process Underway, Bishop Zaidan Urges Prioritizing Humanitarian Assistance for Gazans
Bishop A. Elias Zaidan, October 10, 2025

“Pray Ardently for an End to This Devastating War,” Says Bishop Zaidan Calling for Peace in Gaza
Bishop A. Elias Zaidan, October 1, 2025

Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

Since the first century, pilgrimage to the Holy Land has been a tradition for Christians. Making a pilgrimage can be a profoundly holy and transforming experience. Pilgrims should be prepared to engage in a distinctly Christian and life-changing religious experience.

Pilgrimage Guidelines

Print-ready Revised Pilgrimage Guidelines in PDF Format

Christians in the Middle East

The Christian presence in the Holy Lands traces its roots to the earliest days of Christianity. These small, diverse communities have historically contributed to the vibrant social fabric of their societies in the fields of science, medicine, and philosophy. Their fraternity with the diversity of Churches and other religious groups helps to foster greater interreligious dialogue, unity, and peace in the Middle East.

In the midst of the turbulence in the Middle East, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops expresses solidarity with Christians and all those who suffer from the conflict and persecution in the region.  The Church stands at the service of all people in the Middle East, both Christians and Muslims.

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