My stay in Jerusalem as a trainee at the Saxum Visitor Center marked a turning point in my life, especially because it took place in three very different moments: before, during, and after the war.
Before the conflict broke out, my experience was filled with discovery and wonder for the land where God walked. Every day I welcomed pilgrims from all over the world, accompanying them on a multimedia journey that was not only cultural, but also deeply spiritual.
Jerusalem vibrates with a unique blend of history, faith, and diversity. The streets are filled with voices, languages, and faces reflecting a common desire: to better understand the roots of their faith and culture. My role, although simple, made me feel part of something much greater.
How Jerusalem Changed During the War
With the outbreak of the war, everything changed abruptly. The constant flow of visitors almost completely stopped, and the atmosphere in the city became tense and uncertain. The sirens announcing attacks, the sudden silence in places that had once been full of life, and the constant concern defined those days. My role also changed: it was no longer only about welcoming people, but about supporting and accompanying those of us who remained there.
Deeper bonds were formed within the team, built on solidarity and mutual support. There were intense moments, such as the repatriation of a group from America that had been participating in an activity at the Saxum Conference Center, or the group of pilgrims who had visited us the day before. These were moments of very tangible humanity that helped make the waiting and uncertainty more bearable and allowed us to transmit peace.
We received the news of the temporary ceasefire with great relief. The Holy Land could not be exactly the same anymore, and neither could I.
Teresa with Friends at the Saxum Visitor Center
The Return of Pilgrims to Saxum
Very slowly, pilgrims are beginning to return, although with a different perspective — perhaps more aware, more grateful. Jerusalem has filled with life again, but with a different sensitivity. Every shared story carries greater weight, and every encounter feels more meaningful. I carry with me everything I experienced: the initial joy, the fear and uncertainty, and finally a renewed hope.
This experience taught me that even in the holiest places, human fragility is present, but so is the ability to rebuild, to welcome others, and to move forward. Jerusalem, in all its contrasts, showed me a faith that is more real, more deeply rooted in everyday life.
Today more than ever, we remember that this is the land of the Passion… but also of the Resurrection.
We continue forward, trusting in God and grateful for your prayers, which sustain and accompany us every day as we pray for Peace here and throughout the world.
Teresa in Saxum
By Teresa Blanco Fernández