From September 6 to 12, I participated in a pilgrimage to the Holy Land with a group of friends from Poland and Italy. I must admit that before leaving, I had doubts about whether it was a good decision to attend. But during the journey, those doubts completely disappeared. I am deeply convinced that it was a good decision, and I would very much like to return, even in a tense situation like the one on those days.

The group with Card. Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem

I was particularly struck by a walk through Jerusalem on the afternoon of Wednesday, September 10. For me, as a Catholic and a priest, the Holy Mass, recalling the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of the Lord Jesus, is of vital importance. While walking through the city, in the area adjacent to the Western Wall (the so-called Wailing Wall), an idea came to me that allowed me to understand the Holy Mass more deeply.

It was an ordinary day, a workday, but around the Western Wall, the last remnant of the Second Temple of Jerusalem, which Jesus had the opportunity to see, there was an atmosphere of celebration, great joy, and piety. At the wall, many Orthodox Jews were praying, some reciting the Holy Scriptures, others praying while leaning against the wall. The women’s section was even more crowded than the men’s. Shouts of joy and songs could be heard.

Currently, the Dome of the Rock, with its famous golden dome, stands where the Second Temple once was. This dome marks the rock on which Abraham was to sacrifice his son Isaac. For Muslims, this place is sacred because it was from here that Muhammad was taken up to heaven.

The group at the St. Saviour Monastry wih Fr. Alberto Pari

In the Jewish religion, the only place of worship to God, the place of sacrifice and, therefore, the connection between earth and Heaven, was the Temple of Jerusalem. When the temple was destroyed by Titus, it marked the end of the sacrifices and prayers in the temple of the Jewish religion as we know it from the pages of the Holy Scriptures.

The tearing of the temple veil at the moment of Jesus’ death on the cross signifies the end of the Old Covenant and the beginning of the New. The temple is no longer a building on earth, no matter how majestic and beautiful, but the Person of Jesus Christ, God and Man, in whom the perfect worship of the Father is fulfilled. However, this temple is not closed off to us. Every person, through the sacraments, each of us through participation in the Holy Mass, can join in this sacrifice and worship God with our whole life, in spirit and truth.

And if the Jews at the Western Wall are so joyful, so devout, before something that is only a memory of their temple, how much more should we rejoice in the opportunity to participate in the Holy Mass, and how much more should our lives be filled with joy.

Mass at the Church of Holy Sepulcher

This reflection relates to the observation of how many young people we met: families with small children, pregnant women, children, teenagers. And they were joyful people; you could tell they were not afraid of life. I connect this with my reflection on the temple and the Holy Mass. If they, who do not have our Christian faith, do not fear new life, which is something wonderful but also involves sacrifice, if they do not fear looking to the future with hope, how much more should we, who have discovered God’s love for us, not fear life, not fear giving ourselves, not fear giving generously of ourselves. This is a call to all to live their lives fully dedicated to God, which translates into concrete service to others. These thoughts came to me in connection with a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. I recommend it to all Christians. It is a wonderful opportunity to deepen faith and share it in life.

By Stanislaw Urmanski, priest

📍Location: Near the Church of the Holy Sepulcher

Many people call you the “Jesusman.” What’s your real name?

My name is James, I was born in the United States, but yes — many people call me “the Jesusman” here in Jerusalem.

Jerusalem, Holy Sepulchre parvis Jesusman, by Fallaner- Jesusman

 Jesusman: living like Jesus

How long have you been doing this?

When I was around 33 years old I decided to live in total poverty. 

I started after a powerful spiritual experience during Holy Week. I felt called to live simply, pray in the holy places, and be a visible sign of peace. Now, I’m living in the Holy Land.

Why do you dress like Jesus?

I dress like Him not to pretend I am Him, but to remind others of Him. In this city, where He walked, taught, suffered, and rose again, I want people to stop, reflect, and remember His presence.

What do people say when they see you?

Some are curious, some take pictures. Tourists and locals often ask for prayers. Locals mostly know me and greet me kindly. Some think I’m strange — but that’s okay. Prophets were strange too.

“Jesusman” at Notre Dame, Jerusalem

What’s your message to people who come to Jerusalem?

Don’t just take photos. Listen. Walk slowly. Touch the stones, read the Gospels again while you are here, and ask yourself: “Who is Jesus for me?” Let this land speak to your soul. Follow your heart, follow your conscience.

Where do you live?

I live simply in the Christian Quarter.I live by Providence. People give me bread. I have what I need. I don’t store. I trust God. That’s freedom.

I walk to Mass every day. I pray the Rosary. I listen to many requests people ask me to pray for. I sing in the Notre Dame Chorus.  I talk to pilgrims. I pray with Muslims, Jews, atheists, backpackers. Jesus walked these same stones… I try to leave traces of love where He left His footsteps.

What’s your favorite place in Jerusalem?

The Holy Sepulcher — early in the morning, before the crowds. It’s like touching the mystery of love that conquered death. 

“Jesusman” leaving the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem

What would you say to someone far from God?

He’s not far. You may be running. Stop; pray. He’ll come. Or rather — you’ll finally notice He’s been there the whole time in your heart.

Have you experienced miracles?

Many times when pilgrims come to the Holy Land they are one way and when they leave, they have another vision of their lives.  They encounter Him; then they shine, smile and become like a different person from the one that arrived.

What’s your dream?

That people would truly follow Jesus — not just admire Him. That Jerusalem would be a city of peace again. Then to be with God forever, beyond the earth.

Thank you!

Essential place to visit during a pilgrimage to the Holy Land

Federico and Mª Alicia, Honduras

I’m not a Christian, but I think it is a very good place, even for atheists, to learn a little of the history of the Holy Land

Thomas, Brazil

History here comes alive

Avelino, South Sudan

Thank you for the best tour about the steps of Jesus

Zeitoun family, Haifa