Handling pastoral emergencies abroad

In 15 years of leading groups, we've dealt with broken bones, cardiac events, panic attacks, family deaths back home, and lost passports. Here's what we've learned.

Medical emergencies: Israel has excellent hospitals. Your guide and driver know the nearest one at every stop. Call Magen David Adom (Israel's emergency service) at 101. Ensure every traveler has trip insurance with medical evacuation coverage — this is non-negotiable.

Panic attacks: Sacred sites can trigger intense emotional responses. If someone is hyperventilating or overwhelmed, move them to a quiet space, stay calm, and breathe with them. This is pastoral care, not a medical emergency. It happens more often than you'd expect.

Family crisis at home: Have a communication plan. Ensure every traveler leaves an emergency contact who knows your cell number and the hotel phone. If someone needs to fly home early, your tour operator handles rebooking — that's what you're paying them for.

Prevention: Collect medical information and emergency contacts before departure. Know who has heart conditions, severe allergies, or anxiety disorders. Share this (confidentially) with your guide.