The second edition of Encounter Magdala 2024, an annual event of deep spirituality and communion, took place in Puebla, Mexico. Organized by Magdala Center, the event brought together more than 1,000 pilgrims from around the world to unite in a journey of faith, as part of the preparation for the celebration of the anniversary of Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection in 2033.
Below we reproduce the information published by the communication office of our spiritual center in Holy Land:
The gathering was held from July 25 to 28, and although Holy Land is the official headquarters of Encounter Magdala, this year it was moved to Puebla due to the situation in the Middle East. Puebla was chosen for its profound spiritual and cultural connection with Holy Land and its longstanding presence of the Franciscan Congregation, custodians of the sacred sites for over 800 years.
During the event, participants enjoyed a unique spiritual experience through pilgrimages, prayer moments, singing, and accompaniment. The event featured prominent participation from Archbishop Víctor Sánchez Espinosa of Puebla, and the Apostolic Nuncio in Mexico, S.E. Mons. Joseph Spiteri. Additionally, they received the blessing and virtual participation of S.E. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and Fr. Francesco Patton, Custodian of Holy Land, who sent messages of support and hope to those present.


A highlight of Encounter Magdala 2024 was the immersive concert, which transported more than 1,350 people to experience pilgrimages through Holy Land via music, creating an atmosphere of unity and devotion. This concert featured musical performances by José Ignacio Martínez, Paola Pablo, Ana Bolívar, and Rogelio Casasola, who contributed to enriching the spiritual experience of attendees. As a special guest, the well-known Spanish illustrator Pati.te also participated, collaborating on special designs such as Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Proto-martyrs of Tlaxcala.
Father Juan María Solana, L.C., director of Magdala, expressed his intention to continue organizing these annual events until 2033, the year that will mark 2000 years of Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection. “The idea is to continue these events every year, at least until 2033,” affirmed Father Solana. He added that, if possible, they will be held in Holy Land, and if not, alternative locations that are meaningful for faith, the history of Christianity, and the Church will be sought.


At the conclusion of the event, Father Solana, L.C., invited all the faithful to join the Encounter Magdala 2025 which will be held from July 21 to July 31, 2025, in Holy Land, under the motto “Pilgrims of Hope” in support of the Jubilee Year. This upcoming edition will be another opportunity to experience the love of Christ and the beauty of the Catholic faith.
For more information about Encounter Magdala 2024 and future activities, visit the official website www.magdala.org or follow their social media @experiencemagdala and @encountermagdala.