About Us

Focusing on education and projects that train and empower peace-builders, we support programs and institutions where young people are given 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. To learn more about these partnerships, visit our Peace Partners page.

Strategic Objectives and Goals for 2023

1. Pilgrims invests in future leaders by funding MEEI scholarships and infrastructure for 1000+ students, thus developing their capacities to become effective catalysts for peace in their home communities and upon graduation.
2. Strengthen local society through targeted educational programs for 10,000+ community members and/or students of all faiths and traditions that focus on strengthening peace- making, reconciliation and inter-religious dialogue among Palestinian and Israelis.
3. Facilitate pilgrimages for 150+ aspiring peacemakers to Israel and Palestine each year to support a just-peace through engagement with the “living stones” and peacemakers in the Holy Lands and build bridges for peace among our pilgrimage partners. 

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