Volunteer Program
We are servants and collaborators of God.
Join a unique experience in the Holy Land.
“Soon afterwards he went on through the cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, as well as some women who had been cured of the evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their resources.”
Luke 8, 1-3
This verse from the Gospel of Luke (8, 1-3) drives our volunteer program. As a Christ-centered community, we are dedicated to serving in the proclamation of the Kingdom of God.
Mary Magdalene and those who followed Jesus were the first volunteers of the Gospel. Today, the Magdala’s volunteers share the same spirit and seek to expand the Kingdom of God.
Our volunteers are an integral part of the Magdala Family, providing exceptional service to our pilgrims, visitors, guests, and virtual pilgrims, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Since 2010, more than 3,500 volunteers from over 35 countries have served in the hometown of Mary Magdalene,and you could be the next one.
Join us and experience diverse opportunities, including faith, culture, history, nature, and human relationships. You will have the chance to learn about Christian, Jewish, and Muslim traditions, as well as customs and languages that are different from your own. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a new environment and broaden your horizons.
They are driven by a strong desire to embody Magdala's values, purpose, mission, and vision, and they work to facilitate meaningful encounters that promote spiritual renewal and reconciliation in others.
The program includes monthly two-day trips and one-day spiritual retreats to significant historical and cultural religious sites to enhance these experiences.
The volunteers carry out their talents in distinct areas of service.
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We are looking for individuals who share our mission and values and are willing to put their qualities to work for this cause. Start your application.
Frequently asked questions
The Magdala Volunteer Program offers participants a unique opportunity to experience life in a first-century context within a welcoming, 21st-century environment. Volunteers engage in various departments to serve pilgrims and guests of Magdala, contributing to a Christ-centered community that embodies the values of service and hospitality.
To apply for the Magdala Volunteer Program, interested individuals must complete an online application on the Magdala website. This application will ask for your personal information, details of your availability, reasons for wanting to join the program, and any relevant experience you may have.
Once your application is approved, you may be required to submit additional documents as specified by Magdala. These documents typically include a copy of your passport, a B4 Visa application form, a criminal records check (apostilled if necessary), a digital photo, a medical certificate, a resume, proof of international health insurance covering your stay in Israel, and a personal letter explaining your motivation to volunteer at Magdala. Detailed instructions for each document will be provided upon approval of your application
The program is open to individuals aged 18 to 70 in good physical and mental health, with a clear background check.
Volunteers undertake tasks assigned by Magdala, including hospitality, visitor engagement, and community activities. They are required to adhere to a volunteer uniform and conduct themselves according to Magdala's guidelines.
Volunteers reside in shared accommodations within designated volunteer houses. Rooms are shared with a maximum of three same-sex volunteers to foster community spirit. Practical aspects of daily living are overseen by a Residence Assistant.
Yes, volunteers must adhere to regulations governing community life, accommodations, service hours, and conduct. This includes respecting quiet hours, attending mandatory community events, and abiding by guidelines such as pet restrictions and alcohol consumption policies.
Volunteers are responsible for their travel expenses to Israel, visa fees (if applicable), medical insurance, and a designated economic contribution to the program. Personal expenses and costs associated with outings are also the volunteer's responsibility.
It's essential to maintain valid medical insurance that covers both Israeli and international medical needs. Magdala does not cover medical expenses and volunteers are responsible for arranging medical appointments directly with their insurance provider.
The application review process varies in length and can depend on several factors. Applicants are encouraged to apply three months before their desired start date for volunteer service at Magdala. This timeline allows sufficient processing time to vet applicants based on Magdala's needs, obtain travel visas from the consulate, purchase airfare, and ensure that their passports remain valid for at least six months beyond the intended return date after completing volunteer service. Applications submitted earlier than three months before the desired start date will be queued for processing closer to the intended timeframe.
This approach ensures that applications align with Magdala's operational needs and allows volunteers ample time to prepare for their service commitment.
Upon acceptance into the volunteer program, detailed instructions will be provided on transportation options from Tel Aviv airport to Tiberias. Typically, volunteers can expect to travel by bus or shared shuttle services, which are readily available and convenient. Magdala will facilitate this process by offering guidance on navigating from the airport to Tiberias via public transportation.
Volunteers should pack essentials suitable for a Mediterranean climate and modest attire appropriate for the holy sites at Magdala. Important items include a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond the return date), any necessary prescription medications with prescriptions, personal hygiene items, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Additionally, bring appropriate clothing such as professional yet casual wear, and adhere to modest dress codes (no shorts, miniskirts, leggings or revealing tops).
Further details on packing, travel logistics, and local information will be provided via email along with a congratulations letter upon acceptance. This communication will include a video guide on travel arrangements, packing tips tailored to the region's climate, and instructions on obtaining a local SIM card for communication needs.
The duration of volunteering can vary, typically ranging from a minimum of one month to several months. Volunteers may be able to travel during their stay at Magdala, depending on their responsibilities and prior arrangements with the program coordinators.We encourage that you make any travel arrangements before or after your volunteer time
Yes, spouses, friends, or family members can volunteer together at Magdala, provided they each complete the application process and meet the program's eligibility criteria.