Mission

Pilgrims of Ibillin focuses on education and projects that train and empower peace-builders in the Holy Land. We support giving young people outstanding opportunities to study and grow as well-rounded leaders, grounded in a commitment to peacemaking and reconciliation. We have worked primarily but not exclusively with Mar Elias Educational Institutions (MEEI) in the village of Ibillin, in the Galilee region of northern Israel. MEEI’s founder, Father Elias Chacour, articulated a goal that perfectly embodies the mission of Pilgrims: “We intend to build peace on the desktops of children.” Since 2008 we have also developed “Peace-building Partnerships” with schools and organizations in the West Bank, Gaza, and elsewhere in Israel to support additional projects working for a just peace for all in Palestine and Israel. Our pilgrimages include visits to most of our partner organizations.