Shelley Neese, President of The Jerusalem Connection, recently returned from leading a group of Gen Z pilgrims through Israel during the Feast of Tabernacles in early October 2025. They were there as part of the ICEJ USA Feast of Tabernacle celebrations that have been going on for over 40 years. Each journey to the Holy Land carries its own unique blessing, drawing visitors closer to God. But experiencing Israel through the eyes of first-time travelers—especially young believers—is profoundly moving and deeply inspiring.
This year’s trip was especially meaningful. Shelley led the group through biblical sites that follow Jesus’ footsteps, helping them connect more closely to their Savior in a real and life-changing way.
But the pilgrimage also intersected with history in real time.
The group visited sites connected to the October 7 attacks—places filled with grief, resilience, and remembrance. These sacred stops reminded everyone that biblical prophecy and modern history are not separate stories, but parts of the same divine tapestry. Shelley’s reflections on these moments helped the group see that standing with Israel is a spiritual calling.
Remarkably, this journey coincided with a moment of national relief and celebration: the announcement that the last remaining living hostages from the October 7 attacks had a release date. After two years of captivity and suffering, the people of Israel rejoiced. Shelley and the group were able to witness and participate in that joy firsthand—a powerful example of hope in a land that has endured so much.