Dear Editor, I am very disappointed to see advertisements for pilgrimages to the Holy Land in 2017 staying in Jerusalem instead of Bethlehem. The Christian community desperately need support at this time, much more than the tourist industry in Jerusalem.
Surely tour operators should be made aware of this and ensure that pilgrims have time in Bethlehem and thereby support the Christians living there. On a visit to the Holy Land some years ago we were given very little time there which I found most disappointing.
I would like to appeal to all those considering visiting the Holy Land to make sure that they have the opportunity to support those who are dependent on revenue from pilgrims and also that they have sufficient time there to visit the areas associated with the birth of Jesus.
Yours etc.,
Mary Stewart,
Donegal, Co. Donegal.