The Way. The Truth. The Life.

Returning to the Holy Land: A Message from Milanka Lachman

This week, I returned to the Holy Land for the first time since the attacks of October 7, 2023. It is fitting that the day I arrived was the same day the Church celebrated the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. She has always watched over 206 Tours and our pilgrims. Through the gift of her “yes”, the Prince of Peace became incarnate in her womb. We continue to pray for the gift of His peace in our world and in our hearts.

What a powerful experience it was for me to arrive back at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This sacred place is where Christ overcame the grave. It continues to be enduring proof that nothing is impossible for God and it fills my heart with an awe I cannot begin to describe.

When booking a Pilgrimage with 206 Tours, you will have the option to include airfare in the total cost of your trip. You may be thinking… “Why should I book airfare with 206 Tours? Shouldn’t I shop around and see if I can find a cheaper rate on my own?”

The past few years have been very difficult for the Christian community here in the Holy Land. They rely primarily on tourism to support their families and that industry has suffered greatly due to wars and lockdowns. There have been Christians living in this region since the time of Christ, but they now make up only 1% of the population.

The conflicts in this region are complex and painful to observe, but we at 206 Tours decided many years ago to dedicate our focus to supporting the Christian communities of the Holy Land in whatever way possible.

For 40 years 206 Tours has provided jobs in the Pilgrimage field to local Christians, supported development opportunities, educational projects, and much more. We believe this is much better use of our time and resources than taking sides in disputes on history and politics. We have built strong, working relationships with incredible, faith-filled men and women who continue to live out the fortitude and faith of their ancestors, many of whom were the first followers of Christ.

I have been privileged to organize Pilgrimages to the Holy Land for several decades now. Even though I have visited many times, I am continually in awe of the impact traveling here has on one’s faith. Witnessing the Gospels come alive in these holy places is truly unforgettable and is something I hope every Christian can experience.

Helping pilgrims travel in the footsteps of Our Lord has long been an integral part of our mission of Pilgrimages. As of right now, 206 Tours’ pilgrims are scheduled to return at the end of this year. We hope and pray the peace of Christ, which surpasses all understanding, will safeguard the Christian community and these holy sites so that they can continue to inspire the faith of generations of pilgrims to come.

Join a Holy Land Pilgrimage: www.206tours.com/tour111