12,000 Masses in 10 Years: The Magdala Center’s Chapel Celebrates a Decade with 1.3 Million Pilgrims
Magdala is a place of pilgrimage and a visitor center on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Over the past ten years, the Duc in Altum Chapel has welcomed more than 1.3 million pilgrims, with 12,000 Masses celebrated as well as many weddings, baptisms, and confirmations.
May 28, 2024, marked the 10th anniversary of the Duc in Altum Chapel of the Magdala Center and of Magdala’s Archaeological Park. Magdala opened its doors a decade ago as a place of meeting and prayer. During the anniversary Mass, Father Juan Solana, LC, director and founder of the Magdala Project, spoke emotionally about the inauguration and dedication of the chapel, and the role of Duc in Altum in the life of the pilgrims that visit it. “Magdala has witnessed the healing of hearts, the awakening of vocations to the priestly and religious life, and the restoration of many souls’ dignity,” said Father Solana.
Father Solana expressed his profound gratitude to all those who have contributed to this project over the years, highlighting the collaboration of volunteers, benefactors, friends, artists, and architects. “Nothing would have been possible without the generous and professional participation of many people,” he added. Magdala is considered one of the ten top tourist attractions in the Middle East.
One of Magdala’s pillars is its volunteer program, a community that is instrumental in serving pilgrims and guests. It has been home to over 4,500 volunteers from more than 35 countries who have Christ and played a significant role in the success of Magdala.
In conclusion, Father Solana invited those present to renew their commitment to service and continue being channels of divine grace. “I hope this place will always be one where rivers of living water flow, and a place of thanksgiving.”
ABOUT MAGDALA
Magdala is an archaeological and spiritual center located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee in Israel. It’s known for being the place of origin of Mary Magdalen, a prominent figure in the New Testament. Not only does this place have great historical and religious importance, but it has also become a Center of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection.
Duc in Altum is Magdala’s spiritual center; its translation from Latin means “Go Out Into the Deep.” It’s inspired by Jesus’ words in Luke’s Gospel. Duc in Altum includes a Chapel with an impressive structure in the form of a boat, which symbolizes the Church’s evangelizing mission. It also has several chapels dedicated to different episodes of the life of Jesus and Mary Magdalen.
