Stories by Olakunle Oke
About 200 Christian pilgrims from Lagos have arrived safely in Israel for a Holy Land pilgrimage, marking the start of a spiritual journey to key biblical and historical sites across the region.
The pilgrims arrived at around 12:05 pm Israel time via the Allenby Border and immediately began their tour, visiting historical locations including Jericho, the Mount of Temptation, and other landmarks closely linked to biblical history and the Christian faith.
In a statement issued by the Director of the Public Affairs Unit of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Ebunoluwa Olagoke, the pilgrims proceeded to Jericho, one of the oldest cities in the world, renowned for its deep biblical significance upon landing.
Olagoke noted that biblical accounts identify the area as the place where Christ was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan.
Pilgrims ascended the Mount of Temptation via cable car, enjoying panoramic views of the ancient city of Jericho while offering prayers and thanksgiving to Almighty God.
Along the journey, the pilgrims were also guided through several notable landmarks, including the Judean Mountains, Samaria Mountain, Southern Galilee, the Jordan River, the Dead Sea, and other sites of biblical and historical importance.
The Director further explained that the pilgrims were shown a centuries-old sycamore tree, presented as a replica of the one Zacchaeus climbed to see Jesus. Tour guides encouraged the pilgrims to remain informed about the sites, devoted in prayer, and thankful for the spiritual experience.
Olagoke added that the pilgrims concluded the third day of the pilgrimage activities and retired for the night at the Grand Hotels in Bethlehem.