The Custody of the Holy Land is a special and international Mission to the Catholic Church, a part of the Order of Friars Minor (Franciscans). The Franciscans arrived in the Holy Land in the thirteenth century, and from 1342 have a mandate to preserve and serve the Holy Places on behalf of the Catholic Church. In addition to the care of shrines and assistance to pilgrims, the Franciscans have developed many activities for the benefit of local people, primary in support of the Christian community, but not exclusively. The Custody of the Holy Land is also a diplomatic entity recognized by many countries and institutions.

The Terra Sancta Organ Festival is a cultural activity in which the Custody of the Holy Land allows everyone to enjoy the beauty of its pipe organs, an asset that would otherwise be restricted to Latin Catholics in their liturgies.