Two decades ago, a group of Legionaries of Christ and Consecrated members of Regnum Christi embarked on a bold mission in Holy Land. Guided by faith and with a clear mission, they began a work that today is a symbol of hope, service, and spiritual encounter. This 20th anniversary marks a significant milestone not only for Regnum Christi, but also for all the people who have benefited from the dedication and commitment of those who have been serving over the years in the land where Jesus lived, died, and rose.
A Hope-Filled Beginning
On December 3, 2004, the consecrated women Graciela Magaña (+), Patrizia Revelli, Alessandra Soldati, and Miriam Giacomán arrived at Notre Dame de Jerusalén, to work alongside Fr. Juan Solana, L.C., and Fr. Salvador Fernández, L.C., who had already been there since November 24 of the same year. It was a time of uncertainty, as at that moment, the unrest affecting the region made pilgrim visits difficult. With great faith and determination, they began to build the entrusted mission from scratch. Notre Dame, until then under the direction of Don Aldo Toloto, became their base of operations. Starting January 1, 2005, they officially took over the management of the site.
“Leading the Notre Dame Center for 16 years has been a grace and an honor. First, for serving the Holy See; then for accompanying so many pilgrims on their journey toward God; and also for the challenges we encountered along the way. I sincerely thank all the people who made this mission possible,” comments Fr. Juan Solana, L.C.
The initial work was intense and practically from the ground up. All this while adapting to the complex social and religious reality of the region.
A Spiritual Mission
Today, the presence of Regnum Christi in Holy Land is already an opportunity to live and share the Gospel, accompanied by Legionaries of Christ, consecrated members, and lay members of Regnum Christi. The consecrated women emphasize the importance of not taking for granted the privilege of living and serving in the places where Christ lived, died, and rose. According to Miriam Giacomán, “each visit to Calvary, each walk through Jerusalem, or each moment in Gethsemane is a renewed encounter with the living Christ.”
The experience of Alessandra Soldati reinforces this vision: “Getting to know the details of the Gospel through contemplation of these places is an experience that nourishes the soul. I hope more people can come to Holy Land, not so much as tourists, but more as pilgrims, who give themselves the opportunity to be spiritually guided by this experience.”
In these 20 years, thousands of pilgrims have already experienced this journey with the consecrated women. Their main mission has been to accompany them in their encounter with Christ, allowing them to experience the Gospel firsthand. Holy Land, with its mixture of landscapes, sounds, and smells, offers a unique connection to sacred history.
Based on the feedback they receive, they know that each pilgrim returns with a deeply personal experience. “God acts in each heart in a different way,” reflects Miriam Giacomán. “Regardless of who you are or what expectations you have; Holy Land transforms you.”
Monsignor Adolfo Tito, Apostolic Nuncio, presided over the Eucharist of Christ the King and the 20th anniversary of Regnum Christi’s presence in Holy Land.
A Land of Contrasts and Opportunities
Holy Land, with its constant political and social tension, presents a unique challenge. However, Notre Dame de Jerusalén has maintained its neutrality as a space of peace and encounter. This place, where cultures and faiths converge, is a testimony of hope amid a context often marked by conflict.
Despite the difficulties, they seek to see more the fields of opportunity to create positive experiences. The value of being present alongside the local Christian community and respecting the holy sites is a mission that is renewed every day.
Over these 20 years, the work of the consecrated women of Regnum Christi together with the Legionaries of Christ in Holy Land has been a beacon of light for pilgrims. More than a destination, Holy Land has become an experience of faith and rediscovery of the Gospel.
The message from those who have served there is clear: living in the land of Jesus is a privilege and a responsibility. The invitation is for many people to have the opportunity to visit these places and do so with an open spirit, letting themselves be guided to live a profound experience of the Gospel. In the words of Alessandra Soldati: “May each pilgrimage be an authentic spiritual experience, not just a trip.”
This anniversary is also a renewed commitment to be witnesses of Christ from the land of Jesus to the whole world. It is worth noting that, on the occasion of the anniversary, the consecrated women of Holy Land launched their Instagram account. Follow them here!
You can also learn more about Notre Dame de Jerusalén at their website.
Information provided by the International Communications Office of Regnum Christi.
