.- Israeli Minister of Tourism, Isaac Herzog, and Papal Nuncio to Israel, Archbishop Antonio Franco, have reportedly agreed on a visit to the Holy Land by Pope Benedict XVI early in 2007.
Israeli business journal, Globes, reported that the visit was arranged during a recent meeting of the two. Herzog also proposed to Franco that Israel host the World Conference of Bishops, which is traditionally held in Rome and is attended by thousands of the world’s Catholic Bishops.
Herzog reportedly believes that such an event would be significant and improve relations with Israel’s Christian community
Globes reports that the Ministry of Tourism is excited by the prospect of the Pope’s visit, which they call a significant political and economic visit, since Benedict will have a large entourage of pilgrims. The visit will also encourage pilgrimages to Israel later in the year.
When Pope John Paul II made his pilgrimage to Israel in 2000, pilgrims used 420,000 room-nights in hotels, and generated $60 million in tourist revenue, Globes reported.
Franco reportedly asked Herzog to promote an administrative-economic agreement between Israel and the Vatican, and to facilitate the handling of members of the priesthood in Israel and formalizing their status, including visas and movement in the territories. He also asked Herzog to facilitate regular movement of pilgrims to Bethlehem.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, 800,000 Christian pilgrims visited Israel in 2005, half of whom were Catholics, and the rest Protestants and Evangelists. Christian pilgrims accounted for 40% of all tourists. 400,000 Christian pilgrims visited Israel in 2004, half of whom were Catholics.
Israeli tourism minister excited about Papal visit
Related news
Related articles
- Interview of the Holy Father Benedict XVI during the flight to the Holy Land
- Special message of Pope Benedict XVI in English to the peoples of Israel, Jordan and the Palestinian Territories, at the end of the General Audience. May 6th, 2009
- Address of His Holiness Benedict XVI - Regina Coeli Prayer along with the ordinaries of the Holy Land
- Interesting Facts about His Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI
Feb
12
Liturgical Calendar
February 12, 2012
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary TimeAll readings:
Today »This year »
Featured Videos
 |
World Youth Day organizers unveil Brazilian-themed logo for 2013 |
 |
"World Youth Day - Rio 2013" Logo Release |
 |
Eduardo Verastegui at Lighthouse Pregnancy Center Fundraiser |
Catholic Daily
Daily Readings
First Reading:: Lev 13:1-2, 44-46Psalm:: Ps 32:1-2, 5, 11Second Reading:: 1 Cor 10:31-11:1Gospel:: Mk 1:40-45
Most Popular
