The event was attended by half a thousand people from 25 countries, following a historical, geographical and spiritual itinerary for 10 days in the Holy Land
This July 31st, the Youthfest Encounter Magdala 2023 ended. More than 450 people from 25 countries attended, in a journey that extended from July 21 to 31. Pilgrims, families, young people, priests, consecrated women, nuns and volunteers followed a historical, geographical and spiritual itinerary for 10 days in the Holy Land under the motto “Whom do you seek?” (Jn 20, 15).
The feast of Saint Mary Magdalene has been the appropriate occasion to begin this activity which will be held annually, at least, until 2033, the year in which the two thousand years of Jesus Christ’s resurrection will be celebrated; an event in which Mary Magdalene had a very relevant role, being the one who carried the message to the apostles.
According to the Magdala Center press office, the event had the musical support of six renowned international singer-songwriters: Ana Bolívar, José Ignacio, David Filio, Paola Pablo, Rogelio Casasola and MaryCarmen Barría. There was also participation from several influential Catholic personalities who supported with promotion, before and during the event, on their social networks, such as Catholic Link and the renowned artist Pati.te.
The pilgrimage route was designed around four Cs.
Walk: it was about physically traveling through the places where Jesus was and stepping in his footsteps. Expeditions were made such as climbing Mount Tabor, walking through Wadi Hammam (valley of doves) and traveling the Via Maris, the Via Dolorosa and the old city of Jerusalem, among others.
Sing: there were two evenings guided by music, in addition to each pilgrim bus having the presence of a singer who animated the journeys. On the 24th there was a concert at Duc In Altum where the aforementioned singer-songwriters participated, also accompanied by Martín Valverde’s band, who, due to his son Pablo’s serious illness, could not attend on this occasion.
On the night of the 25th there was a praise and worship adoration and then, in turns, many pilgrims could optionally accompany Jesus in the Eucharist, accompanied each hour by one of the singer-songwriters. –The most beautiful thing that could have happened to me in life –commented one of the participants.
Celebrate: each day the participants enjoyed the presence of Christ through Eucharistic celebrations which, according to the itinerary, were held in holy places such as Nazareth, Capernaum, Magdala, Bethlehem, Gethsemane and the Mount of Beatitudes. Additionally, numerous priests offered ample time for reconciliation and spiritual direction.
Share: throughout the journey, participants were able to share experiences, joys, jokes and fatigue. –It has been like living a few days in a wonderful family –several pilgrims summarized.
This is the first time this event has been celebrated and we are more than satisfied. We have learned and we are going to try to improve, but in general, it has been a shower of grace. The path to realization has had many obstacles, but the joy of the participants motivates us to bless and praise God for all this – Fr. Juan María Solana, L.C., director of Magdala.
At the closing, which took place in the ruins of the archaeological city of Caesarea Maritima, Fr. Juan María announced the theme of the next Encounter: “Lord, teach us to pray” (Lk 11, 1).
“It is the theme that Pope Francis has suggested for the year 2024 as preparation for the Holy Year 2025. We want to unite with the Pope’s guidelines and be church from our little corner on the Sea of Galilee,” he added.
The event was shared and broadcast on Magdala’s official social networks, with 6,805 followers on the event’s Instagram account (@encountermagdala) and approximately 85,000 views on the event’s YouTube broadcasts. Magdala heartily thanks each and every participant. Until Encounter 2024!
With information from: Magdala Center press office
