Following is the text of the message addressed by Custos of the Holy Land Fr. Francesco Patton inviting pilgrims to visit the Holy Land, dated June 23, 2022:

Dear pilgrims and friends,

I would like to reach you through this video inviting you to return to the Holy Land. We have spent two very difficult years but thank God we are slowly getting out of it.

We need you to feel that we are part of a Church that is universal again. Please do not be afraid to come and visit the Holy Places. A pilgrimage is an experience of faith and helps us to grow in faith.

Here in the land of Jesus there are no more dangers than elsewhere, and in fact the pilgrimage is an occasion to learn how to trust in God. For sure, our life is safe always and only when it is in His hands.

We are waiting for you my dear Pilgrims and Friends: in Nazareth, in Bethlehem, in Jerusalem, in the Holy Land.

Peace and Goodwill!

Fr. Francesco Patton, ofm
Custos of the Holy Land