Please pause and ponder with these reflections, allowing yourself to connect with this pilgrimage, wherever you are, right now. Please add comments, and check back for additional sharing from pilgrims.

A Journey to the Heart: Inner Paths to Compassion, Connection, and Peace Pilgrimage
Interfaith Pilgrimage to Israel and Palestine
27 October - 5 November 2010

Links
Blog
Photographs
Pilgrimage invitation

Stories
Ginny Going [North Carolina, USA]
We were fifty pilgrims from four continents led by Sheikh Jamal Rahman, Pastor Don Mackenzie, and Rabbi Ted Falcon, three religious leaders brought together by the events of 9/11/01. Known as “The Interfaith Amigos” their unique blend of spiritual wisdom and humor openly addressed the usual taboos of interfaith dialogue—the awkward parts of each tradition—in order to create a more authentic conversation.

Each morning and evening we gathered to experience a contemplative practice led by various participants. We prayed, chanted, laughed, cried, listened, learned, wrestled with difficult sights and difficult feelings. We planted an olive tree on behalf of peace in a small Palestinian village in sight of the controversial wall being built by the Israel government to enclose Palestinian territories. Olive trees take a long time to mature and bear fruit, as does peacemaking. We met and heard the stories of Jews and Muslims working tirelessly for peace and reconciliation in this beautiful and torn land.

Karuna Gerstein
This was an experience that changed me, and will continue to unfold me. I am touched be the generosity of spirit of each pilgrim on this trip, and of the wisdom and teaching from our beautiful teachers that will continue to speak to me. Thank you SDI for putting this pilgrimage together and allowing us to offer peace and prayers to a region so rich and beautiful. I am truly blessed. Shalom, Salaam, Shanti, Peace.

Susan Izard [USA]
The pilgrimage was a great blessing for me. Walking among the sites listening to the Interfaith story made me realize how limited my own way of seeing things can be! I loved that we were constantly encouraged to keep an open heart and to reach for the both/and and not stay stuck in the either/or. The trip was a story of wisdom unfolding and continues to be that story as I engage in my work here at home. I will preaching on our trip at the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service this Sunday. Writing the sermon is a wonderful way to put some thoughts on paper and remember. Like Karuna, I feel truly blessed. Shalom, Salaam, Peace.

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