All local religions regard Elijah as a major Old Testament prophet. This day traditionally marks his ascension to heaven on a chariot of fire, and is celebrated in a cave which is identified as his hideout on Mount Carmel.
Highlights of the feast
Haifa, Church of Stella Maris - Although the cave in the Stella Maris church is the main venue for candle lighting, the whole area is fast becoming a focal point for pilgrimages and festive gatherings. On the eve of the feast, July 19, the pilgrimage to the site begins, lasting until midnight. On July 20th, four successive masses are celebrated in different liturgical styles in the Stella Maris church.
Related sites worth visiting:
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Elijah’s Cave at the foothills of the Carmel.
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Muhraka Monastery - on the site where Elijah the Prophet defeated the prophets of Baal (I Kings 18:17-40).
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Nain - the site of the resurrecting of the widow’s son (Luke 7:11-17).
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Qaser el Yahud on the Jordan River – where Elijah was taken up by God (II Kings 2:11)