2024
Encounter
Over four days, we will delve into Puebla's rich history and its connections to Jerusalem. Known as the "the Ne Jerusalem," Puebla mirrors the spiritual heritage of the Holy Land through its architecture, traditions, and religious practices.
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Encounter Magdala 2024 - Special Edition
Join us at Encounter Magdala 2024, a gathering of young people and the young at heart. Through prayer, song, and fellowship, we seek to experience Christ's love. Due to the current Holy Land situation, this year we will gather in Puebla, Mexico, following in the footsteps of the Franciscan Friars, the city's founders.
The experience will include moments of prayer and vibrant musical performances, capturing the spirit of both Puebla and Jerusalem. Share and celebrate with the Magdala Team through soulful melodies and hymns, creating a profound atmosphere of unity and devotion through the Magdala Experience as we prepare for the significant celebrations ahead.
The entire program will be conducted in Spanish. We hope you thoroughly enjoy every moment at our event.
The experience will include moments of prayer and vibrant musical performances, capturing the spirit of both Puebla and Jerusalem. Share and celebrate with the Magdala Team through soulful melodies and hymns, creating a profound atmosphere of unity and devotion through the Magdala Experience as we prepare for the significant celebrations ahead.
The entire program will be conducted in Spanish. We hope you thoroughly enjoy every moment at our event.
Choose the best experience for you
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Full Experience
This is your best option if you want to participate in the entire Encounter and take advantage of all activities.
7,522 MXN
Participation to all the activities at CCU including:
Daily Masses, talks, Eucharistic Adoration, and a concert with renowned Catholic music artists.
Lunch and dinner on Friday and Saturday.
Daily Masses, talks, Eucharistic Adoration, and a concert with renowned Catholic music artists.
Lunch and dinner on Friday and Saturday.
Participation to all the visits including:
Transportation from and to the places to be visited.
Tour guides with whispers system.
Via Crucis in Puebla.
Walk ing visit to Cuautinchan and Tecali towns.
Transportation from and to the places to be visited.
Tour guides with whispers system.
Via Crucis in Puebla.
Walk ing visit to Cuautinchan and Tecali towns.
Full Pilgrim Kit including:
- Commemorative Encounter Magdala T-shirt
- Disposable waterproof poncho
- Handcrafted rosary
- Magdala water bottle
- Magdala Mosaic bracelet
- Encounter Magala booklet
- Certificate of participation in Encounter Magdala 2024
* Optional transportation back and forth between the hotel and venue, is available for an additional cost
* Accommodation is not included
Basic Experience
If you are unable to participate in the pilgrimage and tours but wish to join the talks, Eucharistic Adoration, and concert, this experience is for you.
4,023 MXN
Participation to this activities at CCU:
Masses, talks, Eucharistic Adoration, and a concert with renowned Catholic music artists.
Masses, talks, Eucharistic Adoration, and a concert with renowned Catholic music artists.
Dinner on Friday and Saturday
Basic Pilgrim Kit including:
- Commemorative Encounter Magdala T-shirt
- Handcrafted rosary
- Magdala Mosaic bracelet
- Encounter Magdala booklet
Thursday - Full access
Friday - After 4:00p.m.
Saturday - After 5:00p.m.
Sunday - Full access
Friday - After 4:00p.m.
Saturday - After 5:00p.m.
Sunday - Full access
* Accommodation and transportation is not included
Deadline for registration: July 18th or until capacity is reached.
Hotels with special rates for Encounter Magdala 2024
Soon we will have agreements for preferential rates with several hotels in the Angelopolis area for our pilgrims. These reservations will need to be made by the pilgrim.
Discount code:
ENCOUNT24
Wyndham Angelópolis
Distance from CCU: 1.7 km
Phone: +52 (222) 689 0704
La Quinta Palmas Angelópolis
Distance from CCU: 2.0 km
Phone: +52 (800) 753 3757
This journey unfolds around four elements: Singing, Walking, Sharing, and Celebrating.
Because singing is praying twice, live a night of concert and adoration with over 3,000 pilgrims in the city of Puebla. We have invited renowned artists who, through their talent, will make you sing, dance, and pray.
SING
We have prepared an itinerary where you will visit historical and religious sites in the city of Puebla and its surroundings. We will also hike a traditional pilgrimage route that will help us live a moment of prayer, just as Jesus did.
WALK
During this Encounter, you will have the opportunity to meet pilgrims from diverse cultures and countries, becoming part of a unique community inspired by the experience of the Holy Land that leads to an encounter with God.
SHARE
Immerse yourself in the mystery of Christ's Word through the daily Masses we will have across Puebla's historical churches. You will have the support of priests and consecrated individuals who will accompany you to experience the encounter with Jesus Christ in prayer and praise.
CELEBRATE
A 10-year journey to 2033
Encounter Magdala is a journey of faith and love for God, preparing for the 2033 celebration of Christ's Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Join us in walking, singing, sharing, and celebrating in the Holy Land.
Itinerary
Encounter Magdala 2024 will take place from July 25th to 28th. You will visit historical and religious sites in Puebla, Mexico, and its surroundings during this event.
Day 1: Registration & Welcome
You can visit our Encounter Fair and the Apostolates present there when you arrive at the venue. Simultaneously, we will have the registration area where you can pick up your badge and pilgrim kit. Later, we will have a welcome message from Father Juan Solana L.C. and we will conclude the day with the Eucharistic Celebration.
Day 2: Downtown Puebla & Eucharistic Adoration
In the morning, we will explore the church of Santa Maria Tonantzintla, and San Francisco Acatepec. We will then walk the Stations of the Cross that travel the same distance as the Way of the Cross in the Holy Land. In the afternoon, we will have a conference, and in the evening, we will sing and praise our Lord in Adoration.
Day 3: Pilgrimage to Cuautinchan and Concert
In the morning, we will hike a traditional pilgrimage route from Tecali to Cuautinchan. It will be a walk to help us pray and interact with other pilgrims. In the afternoon, we will have the conference "Getting to Know the Magdala Family." At night, we will celebrate with our unique concert, Encounter. It will be an experience that will immerse you in the Holy Land.
Day 4: Final Event
On the last day, we will have our final event, where we will have a concluding talk, testimonies, and finish the day with the Eucharistic Celebration.
Prominent figures
Discover the distinguished guests and musical artists who will be joining the Encounter Magdala. Immerse yourself in a journey to the Holy Land through inspiring talks, Eucharistic celebrations, and an immersive concert that blends music with spirituality, crafting a truly unique experience.
Father Juan María Solana, L.C. is a Legionary of Christ priest, born in Puebla, Mexico. He has been living and ministering in the Holy Land for 20 years, where he was initially the director of the Pontifical Notre Dame Institute of Jerusalem, and now he is the director of the Magdala Center. He will accompany us during this Encounter Magdala 2024.
He was born on May 21, 1950, in Santa Cruz, Puebla. He completed his primary education at a parish institution. In 1963, he entered the Palafoxian Seminary. In 1976, he was ordained a priest by Archbishop Ernesto Corripio Ahumada of Mexico. He continued his studies in Rome in 1977 to specialize in Sacred Liturgy at the Pontifical Liturgical Institute of San Anselmo, and subsequently, in 1979, he returned to the Palafoxian Seminary. In 1995, he became a parish priest at the Church of Our Lady of Ocotlán. In 2004, he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Mexico Primada by Pope John Paul II. He was consecrated a bishop on March 26 of the same year at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Archbishop Joseph Spiteri, born on May 20, 1959, in Sliema, Malta, is a Catholic Church diplomat. Ordained as a priest in 1984, he has served in several apostolic nunciatures, including those in Sri Lanka, Venezuela, and Lebanon. In 2024, he was appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Mexico, where he will act as the Pope's ambassador and a link between the Holy See and the local Church. His appointment reflects Pope Francis's trust in his ability to manage diplomatic and ecclesiastical relations in Mexico.
José Ignacio Martínez, a composer and producer from Poza Rica, Veracruz, Mexico, has made a significant mark in the musical and artistic realm. Among his most notable achievements are the creation of themes for the virtual pilgrimages of Magdala, such as "Land of Mary," "Heal Me," "Faith,""Passion," "We Are Ready," "Set Me Free," and his most recent production, "Lord, Teach Us to Pray," in collaboration with Paola Pablo.
His versatility and talent have resonated in religious music and popular entertainment, establishing him as a multifaceted and prominent artist in the Mexican music scene.
His versatility and talent have resonated in religious music and popular entertainment, establishing him as a multifaceted and prominent artist in the Mexican music scene.
Paola Pablo, a Catholic singer-songwriter from the Dominican Republic, aims to spread the joy of believing and living in intimacy with God to others. Her music serves the New Evangelization, intending for people and communities to discover and embrace the Good News.
Among her most listened-to songs stands out "And if today..." and her latest single "He's NoLonger Here (He Has Risen)." With profound lyrics and inspiring melodies, Paola conveys a message of hope and faith, inviting everyone to join in the celebration of life and the resurrection of Christ.
Among her most listened-to songs stands out "And if today..." and her latest single "He's NoLonger Here (He Has Risen)." With profound lyrics and inspiring melodies, Paola conveys a message of hope and faith, inviting everyone to join in the celebration of life and the resurrection of Christ.
Ana Bolívar, a Colombian singer-songwriter, emerges as a voice of hope, narrating a fresh perspective on living faith in the everyday. In recent years, she has written and performed four albums, whose standout songs have gained great popularity on digital platforms within the gospel genre. Among these tracks are "The Fortune of Having You," "Where You Go I'll Go," "I Belong to You," "I Will Flow," and "It Will Pass." Her latest single, "Embrace My Fears," continues to resonate with her message of faith and hope.
Her music and her commitment to hope are a beacon for those seeking strength and comfort in difficult Ames.
Her music and her commitment to hope are a beacon for those seeking strength and comfort in difficult Ames.
Rogelio Casasola, a Catholic singer-songwriter originally from Guatemala and currently based in Guadalajara, Mexico, is a true lover of God, his family, and music.
His devotion led him to leave the top spots of popularity on the radio in his country to follow Christ and become a missionary, spreading the message of evangelization to the world through his inspiring songs.
Among his most notable works is the hymn "Rain of Grace," created for the Pilgrimage of "La Gracia" of Magdala. His music, infused with faith and devotion, has touched the hearts of many, serving as a powerful tool to convey the message of God's love and grace through melody and lyrics.
His devotion led him to leave the top spots of popularity on the radio in his country to follow Christ and become a missionary, spreading the message of evangelization to the world through his inspiring songs.
Among his most notable works is the hymn "Rain of Grace," created for the Pilgrimage of "La Gracia" of Magdala. His music, infused with faith and devotion, has touched the hearts of many, serving as a powerful tool to convey the message of God's love and grace through melody and lyrics.
Collaborators
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Message from Fr. Juan Solana L.C.
"Puebla was an essential center for announcing the Gospel in the New World. Numerous religious orders and congregations were established there, as evidenced by the churches in the historical center, the Convents, the former College of the Jesuits, and the Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Puebla was key in the first evangelization of North America and even in the evangelization of the Philippines."
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Join Us in Spreading the Word: Encounter 2024 Special Edition in Puebla, Mexico
We invite you to join us in promoting the Encounter 2024: Special Edition. By printing and sharing the event poster in your parish or through your social networks. Let’s come together to ensure that as many people as possible can join us in this unique journey of faith, discovery and sharing with the Magdala family. Spread the word, invite your friends and family, and let's make Encounter 2024 an unforgettable experience for all.
DOWNLOAD THE POSTER
Frequently asked questions
1. What is Encounter Magdala, Youthfest?
Encounter Magdala 2024, is a gathering of young people and those young at heart who, through this pilgrimage of prayer, song, and fellowship, seek to live an experience of Christ's love.
2. When is it taking place?
This year, Encounter Magdala 2024 will be held from July 25th to 28th in Puebla, Mexico.
3. What happens during Encounter?
SING
Because singing is praying twice, let's live a night of concert and adoration with over 3,000 pilgrims. We have invited renowned artists who, will make you sing, dance, and pray, through their talent.
WALK
In 2024, we have an itinerary from July 25th to 28th, where you will visit historical and religious sites in Puebla city and its surroundings. We will also have a hiking day to experience a moment of prayer, as Jesus did.
SHARE
Invite your friends and family to join this great experience. During these four days, you will have the opportunity to meet pilgrims from various cultures and countries, becoming part of a unique community. We will also have workshops to learn about the Magdala Family and the Holy Land.
CELEBRATE
Immerse yourself in the mystery of Christ's word through the daily masses. Experience the encounter with Jesus Christ through prayer and praise. We will have the support of priests and consecrated women during these four days.
Because singing is praying twice, let's live a night of concert and adoration with over 3,000 pilgrims. We have invited renowned artists who, will make you sing, dance, and pray, through their talent.
WALK
In 2024, we have an itinerary from July 25th to 28th, where you will visit historical and religious sites in Puebla city and its surroundings. We will also have a hiking day to experience a moment of prayer, as Jesus did.
SHARE
Invite your friends and family to join this great experience. During these four days, you will have the opportunity to meet pilgrims from various cultures and countries, becoming part of a unique community. We will also have workshops to learn about the Magdala Family and the Holy Land.
CELEBRATE
Immerse yourself in the mystery of Christ's word through the daily masses. Experience the encounter with Jesus Christ through prayer and praise. We will have the support of priests and consecrated women during these four days.
4. How come the encounter is being held in the city of Puebla?
Founded by Franciscan friars in 1531 during the early days of evangelization in the Americas, this city drew inspiration from Jerusalem in its creation.
Becoming a significant hub for the spread of the Gospel, Puebla witnessed the establishment of numerous religious orders, reflected in its historic churches, convents, the former Jesuit College, and its impressive Cathedral. It played a crucial role in the evangelization of North America and the Philippines.
Here, in this place, the young Tlaxcaltecans Cristóbal, Antonio, and Juan sacrificed their lives for Christ, dedicating themselves to the mission of evangelizing in Tecali and Cuautinchán, where they were martyred 'in odium fidei' at the age of 12.
Becoming a significant hub for the spread of the Gospel, Puebla witnessed the establishment of numerous religious orders, reflected in its historic churches, convents, the former Jesuit College, and its impressive Cathedral. It played a crucial role in the evangelization of North America and the Philippines.
Here, in this place, the young Tlaxcaltecans Cristóbal, Antonio, and Juan sacrificed their lives for Christ, dedicating themselves to the mission of evangelizing in Tecali and Cuautinchán, where they were martyred 'in odium fidei' at the age of 12.
5. How can I participate in Encounter Magdala 2024?
To participate in Encounter Magdala 2024, you will need to register through the website.
Once registrations are open, you'll need to choose the experience that suits you best: Full Experience or Basic Experience.
Click the button below your preferred selection and follow along with the registration process.
To complete the registration, you will need to make a payment using a credit card.
Once your registration is successfully completed, you will receive a confirmation email with the following steps.
Once registrations are open, you'll need to choose the experience that suits you best: Full Experience or Basic Experience.
Click the button below your preferred selection and follow along with the registration process.
To complete the registration, you will need to make a payment using a credit card.
Once your registration is successfully completed, you will receive a confirmation email with the following steps.
6. Who can attend Encounter?
Those seeking to live an experience of Christ's love.
7. What does my participation include?
We have two options:
FULL EXPERIENCE:
- Participation to all the activities at CCU including: masses, talks, adoration, and concert
- Participation to all the visits including: Via Crucis in Puebla , and Cuautinchan/Tecali towns
- Lunch and dinner on Friday and Saturday
- Full Pilgrim Kit
BASIC EXPERIENCE:
- Participation to some activities at CCU including: talks, adoration and concert
- Dinner on Friday and Saturday
- Basic Pilgrim Kit
FULL EXPERIENCE:
- Participation to all the activities at CCU including: masses, talks, adoration, and concert
- Participation to all the visits including: Via Crucis in Puebla , and Cuautinchan/Tecali towns
- Lunch and dinner on Friday and Saturday
- Full Pilgrim Kit
BASIC EXPERIENCE:
- Participation to some activities at CCU including: talks, adoration and concert
- Dinner on Friday and Saturday
- Basic Pilgrim Kit
8. Does it include accommodation?
The price does NOT include accommodation.
However, we have negotiated preferential rates with several hotels in the Angelópolis area of Puebla. Please use the following code ENCOUNT24.
Accommodation is subject to hotel availability.
However, we have negotiated preferential rates with several hotels in the Angelópolis area of Puebla. Please use the following code ENCOUNT24.
Accommodation is subject to hotel availability.
9. What is included in the Pilgrim kit?
The Pilgrim Kit includes various items depending on the chosen package.
Full Pilgrim Kit
- Commemorative pilgrimage T-shirt
- Disposable plastic poncho
- Handcrafted prayer cross
- Handcrafted rosary
- Magdala water bottle
- Magdala Mosaic bracelet
- Pilgrimage booklet
- Certificate of participation in Encounter Magdala 2024
Basic Pilgrim Kit
- Commemorative pilgrimage T-shirt
- Handcrafted prayer cross
- Handcrafted rosary
- Magdala Mosaic bracelet
- Pilgrimage booklet
Full Pilgrim Kit
- Commemorative pilgrimage T-shirt
- Disposable plastic poncho
- Handcrafted prayer cross
- Handcrafted rosary
- Magdala water bottle
- Magdala Mosaic bracelet
- Pilgrimage booklet
- Certificate of participation in Encounter Magdala 2024
Basic Pilgrim Kit
- Commemorative pilgrimage T-shirt
- Handcrafted prayer cross
- Handcrafted rosary
- Magdala Mosaic bracelet
- Pilgrimage booklet
10. Where are the masses held and who officiates?
Each day will begin with Holy Mass at the Centro Cultural Universitario, BUAP.
Inaugural and closing Mass: Fr. Juan María Solana L.C.
We will have the presence of Monsignor Victor Sánchez Espinosa, Archbishop of Puebla, during Saturday's Eucharistic celebration.
Inaugural and closing Mass: Fr. Juan María Solana L.C.
We will have the presence of Monsignor Victor Sánchez Espinosa, Archbishop of Puebla, during Saturday's Eucharistic celebration.
11. Is there a dress code for the Encounter?
1. Comfortable and loose-fitting pants: Opt for pants that are not tight-fitting, such as cotton pants or cargo pants. These will provide you comfort during the hike and meet the modesty you seek.
2. T-shirts, polo shirts, or short-sleeved shirts: Choose tops that are loose and not tight-fitting. Cotton t-shirts or polo shirts are excellent options to keep you cool during the hike.
3. Casual and comfortable shoes: Sneakers or hiking shoes are perfect for a hike as they provide good support and comfort for your feet.
4. Skirts or dresses that are not short: If you prefer skirts or dresses, select options that are not short and provide sufficient coverage.
5. Avoid tight or revealing clothing: It's important to avoid tight-fitting or revealing garments, as well as pronounced necklines.
6. Avoid caps or hats inside temples: If you are visiting a religious place, it is appropriate to show respect by removing any cap or hat while inside the temple.
2. T-shirts, polo shirts, or short-sleeved shirts: Choose tops that are loose and not tight-fitting. Cotton t-shirts or polo shirts are excellent options to keep you cool during the hike.
3. Casual and comfortable shoes: Sneakers or hiking shoes are perfect for a hike as they provide good support and comfort for your feet.
4. Skirts or dresses that are not short: If you prefer skirts or dresses, select options that are not short and provide sufficient coverage.
5. Avoid tight or revealing clothing: It's important to avoid tight-fitting or revealing garments, as well as pronounced necklines.
6. Avoid caps or hats inside temples: If you are visiting a religious place, it is appropriate to show respect by removing any cap or hat while inside the temple.
12. Are there opportunities for confession during the trip?
Yes, we will have priests accompanying the groups who will be available for confessions.
13. What type of music will be played during the concert?
Popular Catholic Church songs as well as songs from the repertoire of participating artists.
14. Can I reserve a seat for events at the CCU?
Seat cannot be reserved for the event. Seats will be occupied on a first-come, first-served basis.
15. Is there parking for cars at the CCU?
The University Cultural Complex (CCU) offers free parking; however, it has limited spaces available. We recommend taking precautions in this regard.
16. How is the weather in Puebla?
The Encounter Magdala takes place in July, temperatures usually range between 11°C to 22°C with the possibility of rain.
Keep this in mind when packing!
Keep this in mind when packing!