“Barnabas” Kelly by Christiane Esser

Barnabas is not a very common name, and I can assure you it wouldn’t be one of my top choices, yet in the first century there was a very important man who was known by this name.  The fourth chapter of the Acts of the Apostles introduces a contemporary of the apostles, ”Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom…

Letter from Fr. Juan (XXIII)

Dear Friends of Magdala, If I had to describe Magdala during these past weeks I would say it is exactly like an anthill. The place is buzzing with movement as our construction team finishes the landscaping and development of the site, visitors and pilgrims continue to arrive, and the number of on-site activities such as…

An Advent Message

Dear Magdala Friends, Advent has again arrived. It is a time of serene joy and grace. The passing of time with the change of seasons, liturgical celebrations, and holidays teaches us both the value and the futility of time. We live in time and thus in some way always have it, but at the same…

A Woman’s Touch

Magdala is a first century town best known today because of one woman – a woman who has fascinated the world for centuries, Mary Magdalene. It seems only appropriate that in the “hometown” of Mary Magdalene women would find a place especially for them. “I have never seen a place like this for women…”  “Thank…

Letter from Fr. Juan (XXII)

Dear friends of Magdala, We continue to welcome many pilgrims to Magdala! In the past few weeks, thanks be to God, almost a thousand pilgrims a day visit here. Often, they compliment Duc In Altum, the Archaeological Park, the Encounter Chapel and much more. Buildings are important but Magdala’s message is not in the stones:…

Letter from Fr. Juan (XXI)

Dear Friends of Magdala, A few days ago we concluded the construction of the cement structure of the south wing of the future Magdala hotel. This is one further step in the whole process of our construction Project that began a few years back. It’s quite a significant step because we can say the structure…

It’s Not About the Feet

“Where’s the room with the feet?”  “I want to see the big painting…you know, the one with the feet…”   The mural that decorates our Encounter Chapel  quickly became world famous.  There seems to be no end to the “ooohhhhing” and “aaaaahhhhing” of tourists and pilgrims who walk into that chapel.  And, undoubtedly, Daniel Carriola…

Letter from Fr. Juan (XX)

Dear Friends of Magdala, Many pilgrims who visit the Duc in Altum Spirituality Center in Magdala are impressed with the beautiful mosaics that are portrayed on the side chapels of the building. Each mosaic has thousands of little colored tiles or tesserae, which put together, form striking scenes of Jesus and His ministry around the…