Pioneer Pilgrimage Groups – 2026

Who Are the Pioneer Groups?

The Way to Jerusalem is still in its first steps. A living path in motion, continually being shaped and gently sculpted by those who walk it. Every action taken now leaves a meaningful mark on its unfolding story.

Pioneer Groups are far more than the first to walk the Way, they are the ones who give it breath, rhythm, and direction. For us, and for the Way itself, their presence shapes the culture, deepens the story, and leaves footprints that future pilgrims will follow.

Every ceremony, every encounter, every connection becomes a footprint in the emerging tradition of modern pilgrimage to Jerusalem. To be part of it is to shape the tradition itself.

Step Into the Way

In 2026, we will offer two Pioneer Pilgrimage formats along the Way to Jerusalem. Both journeys include six days of walking toward Jerusalem, preceded by a full gathering day in ancient Jaffa.

The first option is a seven day pilgrimage: one opening day in Jaffa for arrival, preparation, and ceremony, followed by six consecutive walking days on the Way.

The second option is an eight day pilgrimage: one opening day in Jaffa, six walking days, and one dedicated day of silence held in the midst of the journey. On this day, we do not walk. Instead, we gather for guided workshops centered on silence, awareness, reflection, and deepening our connection to the Way.

Each pilgrimage begins in ancient Jaffa with a welcome gathering and conversation with the founders of the Way, a traditional pilgrim ceremony, receiving the pilgrim passport (credencial), first official stamp, and a shared evening meal. Overnight accommodation in Jaffa on this opening day is included.

Throughout the journey, participants stay within the diverse communities along the Way, creating space for meaningful interpersonal and intercultural dialogue. Each day includes breakfast and dinner, provisions for the walk, luggage transfer between accommodations, and a support vehicle accompanying the group.

Journey Details & Cost

As We Walk Together, You’ll Have:

Accommodation throughout the journey, hosted by diverse communities who open their doors to us along the Way beginning with our shared night in Jaffa before we set out.
Daily breakfast and dinner, along with simple, nourishing food and water to carry with us for the day’s walk.
Daily luggage transfer - your belongings are gently carried from one resting place to the next, allowing you to walk the Way with a lighter step.
A support vehicle accompanying us along the journey.
A licensed Guide of the Way, specially trained by The Way to Jerusalem and deeply familiar with the path, walking with the group throughout the journey.
Entrance to sites we visit along the Way.
Encounters with the diverse communities that are part of this living path.
A personal conversation with the founders of the Way to Jerusalem, sharing the story, vision, and spirit behind the journey.
A Way to Jerusalem shirt.
A Pilgrim Passport.
A few additional surprises, inspired by the tradition of pilgrimage — which we prefer not to reveal just yet.