Safety Before Booking
Travelling to the Holy Land is a meaningful decision, and we understand that pilgrims may have questions about safety before booking. St George’s College takes those questions seriously.
We combine local knowledge, attentive planning and clear communication to support the wellbeing of our pilgrims throughout their journey.
Current Situation Update
Last updated: [Date]
St. George’s College is closely monitoring conditions in Jerusalem and throughout the places included in our pilgrimages. This section will provide a brief update on the College’s current operating status, upcoming pilgrimages and any significant changes prospective pilgrims should know before booking.
Because conditions can change quickly, travellers should also review the current advice issued by their own government and contact the College with questions about a particular pilgrimage. Current government advisories distinguish between Jerusalem, Israel, the West Bank, Gaza and surrounding border areas, so travellers should read the full guidance that applies to their itinerary.
A Thoughtful Approach to Your Wellbeing
The College is located within the enclosed Close of St George’s Cathedral in East Jerusalem.
Your Safety First
The entrances to the Close are monitored by security personnel and cameras throughout the day and night. Our local team also pays close attention to conditions in Jerusalem and the wider region. Before and during each pilgrimage, staff review the planned itinerary and remain prepared to adjust routes, timings or site visits when circumstances require it.
Flexible by Design
The Holy Land offers a remarkable number of places through which Scripture, history and the lives of local communities can be explored. When a particular site is unavailable or a route is unsuitable, the College can often draw on other meaningful locations without losing the depth and purpose of the pilgrimage.
Our approach includes
- Local staff with first-hand knowledge of current conditions
- Ongoing review of destinations and travel routes
- Flexibility to change an itinerary or visit an alternative site
- Guidance for pilgrims while travelling with the group
- Clear communication when changes affect a scheduled pilgrimage
Making an Informed Decision
No destination is without risk, and each traveller must decide whether travelling is right for them. Before departure, pilgrims should:
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Review official travel advice for their nationality and itinerary
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Register for government travel alerts, where available
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Obtain suitable travel and medical insurance
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Share travel details and emergency contacts with family
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Understand their provider’s cancellation and evacuation cover
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Follow guidance from College staff and local authorities
Official guidance currently emphasises maintaining awareness, avoiding demonstrations, following emergency instructions and preparing a contingency plan. Travellers should check for updates regularly because conditions and flight operations may change with little notice.
Latest Updates from Jerusalem
Read the latest College-authored notices, pilgrimage updates and reflections from Jerusalem.
Dean’s Welcome
Welcome to St. George’s College, the Anglican centre for pilgrimage, hospitality, education, and reconciliation in the Holy…
Update from Dean Richard Sewell
St George’s College has experienced numerous serious disruptions to its ministry over the past fifty years and…
Easter Message from the Dean
January 2025 brought the best news for which we had been praying and yearning, for many months…
Holy Land Pilgrimage 1
A pilgrim is essentially, one who walks and a pilgrimage in the Holy Land involves a good…
In the Words of Our Pilgrims
“This was so much more than visiting the places I had read about. Scripture, worship and community came together in a way I will carry with me.”
“You do not visit the Holy Land. You let it enter you.”
Ruth Asante
Accra, Ghana
“The scripture did not change. But I did. Every page reads differently now.”
Michael O’Brien
Dublin, Ireland
“I came to walk ancient stones. I left with a faith made new.”