The Garden of Gethsemane, situated at the base of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, holds deep spiritual significance for Christians worldwide. This sacred garden is revered as the place where Christ prayed fervently on the night before his crucifixion, expressing his acceptance of the Father’s will amidst profound anguish manifested as drops of blood.
For pilgrims, visiting the Garden of Gethsemane is a profound journey into the heart of Jesus’ passion and surrender to his passion. The ancient olive trees, some of which are believed to date back over a thousand years, create a serene atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection. Here, amidst the peaceful surroundings, pilgrims can meditate on the biblical accounts of Jesus’ prayers and his ultimate submission to God’s plan for humanity’s redemption.
The Garden of Gethsemane also includes the Church of All Nations, also known as the Basilica of the Agony, which enshrines the Rock of Agony where tradition holds Jesus prayed before his arrest, and where pilgrims often participate in Mass and devotions.
