Holy Land Pilgrimage As A Site Of Inter-Religious Encounter
Holy Land Pilgrimage As A Site Of Inter-Religious Encounter

Summary/Abstract: For over 1800 years, Christian pilgrims have made their way to the Holy Land to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. For many, the voyage is a profound experience and an important stage in their spiritual development. Today, most pilgrims come on group bus tours. During their stay, most groups are guided by Israeli licensed tour guides, mainly Jewish. The guide is not only responsible for logistic arrangements and background information. He often becomes an integral part of the pilgrimage experience. How does a Jew, who may represent for the visitors, the country, the Jewish people and the State, also function as mediator between Christian pilgrims and their sacra? What theological, and cultural expectations do the pilgrims bring with them and how does the guide negotiate this charged situation for his own benefit and to the satisfaction of his guests? These issues are discussed in the following paper.

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