As followers of Jesus around the world prepare to celebrate Easter, we in Israel are still in the midst of our own sacred season—Passover. These two holidays, deeply significant to Christians and Jews, often overlap on the calendar. In Jerusalem, they often overlap on the streets.
This year, however, feels different.
War has changed the rhythm of life here. The usual crowds of pilgrims – those walking the ancient stones of the Old City, retracing Jesus’ final days, or gathering to remember the Exodus – are fewer. Travel plans have been paused. Celebrations have been scaled back. But the longing to connect to the Land and its holiness has not disappeared.
Earlier this week, during the intermediate days of Passover, thousands gathered at the Western Wall for the traditional Priestly Blessing – an ancient rite passed down from the Book of Numbers, in which hundreds of Kohanim (Jewish men of priestly descent) raise their hands to bless the people gather for Easter and Passover prayers. The sound of voices lifted in unison, the sight of prayer shawls spread like wings across the plaza, created a living image of spiritual yearning. Even for those who weren’t there in person, this moment was a powerful reminder: Jerusalem still radiates holiness, still gathers prayers.
At Pilgrim Prayers, we’ve seen this desire expressed in thousands of prayers submitted from around the world, especially now, in this shared sacred season. Whether tied to the themes of resurrection and renewal, or to freedom and deliverance, prayers are pouring in to be placed at sacred sites like the Wailing Wall, the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane, and more.
Jerusalem remains a city of prayer. Even now – especially now – it is filled with the spiritual energy of Jews and Christians alike. And though many cannot physically be here this year, your prayers can.
So as Easter Sunday approaches, and as we conclude Passover, we invite you to send your prayer to Jerusalem. We will place it personally and respectfully, believing that even from afar, there is still a way to draw close.
