Walking in Faith: A Chat with Our Jerusalem Guide Shafik Khbeis
For years, Cloverdale Travel has had the honor of working alongside one of the most passionate and knowledgeable guides in the Holy Land — Mr. Shafik Khbeis. Based in the heart of Jerusalem, Shafik has guided countless pilgrims through sacred sites that bring the Scriptures to life.
Recently, we had the chance to catch up with Shafik to hear how he’s been doing, how life has changed in Jerusalem, and what continues to inspire him to share the story of faith and hope from the land where it all began.
“I was born and raised in the Old City of Jerusalem...”
“My name is Shafik, and I was born and raised in the Old City of Jerusalem, in the Christian Quarter—just a two-minute walk from the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. I am a Christian Catholic, and my family originally came from Nazareth, so I like to say that I am half Galilean.”
Shafik’s roots in Jerusalem run deep. His lifelong connection to the land and his faith led him, eighteen years ago, to follow a special calling: to become a licensed tour guide in the Holy Land.
“I truly believe it was a calling rather than just a career. I fell deeply in love with the biblical and archaeological stories of the land where I was born and raised. I wanted to share these sacred stories with others—to help them grow in faith and love for the place where our salvation was fulfilled.”
Guiding Through Challenges and Hope
In recent years, travel to the Holy Land has faced many challenges. The ongoing conflicts and instability in the region have understandably brought tourism to a near standstill.
“The past two years have been very difficult,” Shafik shared. “The instability and the war made it impossible to work and to do what I love most. Yet even during these challenging times, I’ve tried to stay connected—to the Bible, to people, and to the land that means so much to me.”
Despite the hardship, Shafik found creative and faith-filled ways to continue his mission. Through virtual pilgrimages and Zoom tours of Jerusalem’s sacred sites, he has been able to connect with pilgrims around the world—sharing Scripture, history, and hope from the very streets where Jesus once walked. “In this way, people can remain spiritually close to the Holy City while also helping me support my family.”
Looking Ahead: Hope, Faith, and Pilgrimage
Now, as peace and stability begin to return to the region, Shafik’s heart is full of hope. “After the recent good news and the easing of the conflict, I look forward to welcoming pilgrims back to the Holy Land once again. A pilgrimage here is much more than a trip—it’s a sacred journey, walking in the footsteps of our Lord.”
At Cloverdale Travel, we couldn’t agree more. Traveling with Shafik isn’t just sightseeing—it’s a life-changing encounter with faith, history, and the presence of God in the very places where the Gospel unfolded.
Join Shafik Live from Jerusalem – Virtual Advent Retreat
You’re invited to a special Advent retreat with Shafik Khbeis, joining us live from Jerusalem!
Sunday, November 30 at 12:00 noon (Following the 11 AM Mass at St. Mary’s, Lansdale)
During this unique event, Shafik will guide us on a virtual journey through the Nativity story — from Nazareth to the Judean Hills and Bethlehem — bringing the Gospel to life from the very place where the Word became flesh.
Join us in one of two ways:
In-Person: Gather at St. Mary’s Parish Hall for fellowship and refreshments.
Online: Join the live presentation via Zoom. A link will be shared via email a week before the event.
Come and prepare your heart this Advent season through Scripture, prayer, and reflection as we journey together toward the joy of Christmas.
A Final Word from Shafik
“I warmly invite all of you to come and experience this holy place for yourselves. Remember the words of the Lord at the Sea of Galilee: ‘Let us cross to the other side.’ He will guide you safely to the Holy Land and back home again.”
With love and prayers from Jerusalem,
– Shafik Khbeis