Bob Hope would say, "Thanks for the memories." Thanks LPTS, the CF Foundation, and all of you for your prayers and support as we made this faith journey we'll never forget.
Amariah McIntosh
Thursday, June 12, 2008
The End of The Road
A few photos to share at the end of the journey. We shared a lot and learned a lot.
Bob Hope would say, "Thanks for the memories." Thanks LPTS, the CF Foundation, and all of you for your prayers and support as we made this faith journey we'll never forget.
Amariah McIntosh
Bob Hope would say, "Thanks for the memories." Thanks LPTS, the CF Foundation, and all of you for your prayers and support as we made this faith journey we'll never forget.
Amariah McIntosh
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Do You See What I See?
We all have challenges in our group and during our time together we have learned to make allowances for one another. One of our group has difficulty seeing. We take turns spotting for her. "Step!" or "Bump!" we exclaim, not unlike the Turkish guard banging his staff to make a path for the priest. During my turn I was warning her not just of steps but patterns of contrasting shadows and light that look like steps but are not. "Flat!" I would warn. She said, "You are seeing like me!"
The conflicting claims of the peoples here and the tension even in the Church of the Holy Seplchure between denominations, pilgrims and tourists, natives and visitors could be much improved if we all learned to see how others see.
The conflicting claims of the peoples here and the tension even in the Church of the Holy Seplchure between denominations, pilgrims and tourists, natives and visitors could be much improved if we all learned to see how others see.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Welcoming Bells for Greek Orthodox
Turn the volume to MAXIMUM to get a good taste of the bells. You could not talk and be heard in the courtyard when the bells were ringing.
The bells of Jerusalem churches ring at appropriate times in the services. (Except for one church, it always rings at 12 noon like clockwork: the Germans.) Here are the bells that usher in the Greek Orthodox delegation. The red capped one is a Turkish guard. Originally assigned by the Ottoman empire for protection of the church leaders, this office has been passed down to family members for generations. The guard bangs his staff on the floor to make a way through the crowd for the officials.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Bethlehem
Today we went to Bethlehem, and it was a rich experience. We saw the WALL for the first time, and it was sobering. It's huge, and while we were able to pass through easily (the soldier talked to our driver and waved us on through), the Palestinians who live in Bethlehem have great difficulty going back and forth. We met with Mitri Rahab, who is a Lutheran pastor there, and does some really great ministry, a school, a college, a wellness center. He was wonderful, and we were all fed by his wisdom. We also went to the Church of the Nativity, where we went down into the place where Jesus was supposedly born. I reached into the middle of the star and touched the rock, and lit some candles for you guys.
Then tonight we walked around a bit, not in the Old City, but in the more modern part. Jews were streaming out of the Old City after celebrating Pentecost (Shavrot, I think they call it), and were very festive and happy. We also walked for a couple of hours last night, did I already tell you this? It was fun to walk through regular neighborhoods. I feel boring tonight, so will quit writing. I'm NOT bored, mind you, just being boring.
I guess, though, that the one other thing I want to write about is that I practiced Sabbath yesterday, and it was pretty special. Sue had asked me the night before if I was getting any rest. And after walking around the Jewish Quarter of the Old City the day before, on their Sabbath, I thought that I would take my own. So I didn't take my camera with me, or my map, or even my watch. I decided to travel light, as Jesus instructed his disciples to do, and depend on the kindnesses of others. We went out in the morning to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and then ate lunch, and then I went back to the hotel and slept and read all afternoon, which was very nice and very needed. Then that night, as I said earlier, I walked around the city with Bruce, Andy, and Trish. It was a lovely Sabbath, and has set me thinking about what Sabbath really ought to be.
Okay, now I'm warming up. I also want to write about the visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. We went out at about 7:00, with Hannah for our guide. She is Jewish, and knows so much about those churches that it makes your head spin! She took us to five different worship services, four of them in the Church of the HS. Syrian, Copt, Greek Orthodox, Ethiopian, and Arab Greek Orthodox (the last one was not technically in the C of the HS, I don't think). Oh, it was so interesting. Basically, these churches have been sharing the church for hundreds and hundreds of years. And 200 years ago, roughly, they (The Turks? The British? I'm getting so much information that I can't take it all in, anyway, the PIC, People in Charge) passed what they call the Status Quo, which the PIC are really well versed in. So What that meant was that whatever space that particular church had been able to carve out for themselves became theirs. So the Copts (from Egypt) have this little space that is surrounded by what looks like Jesus shower curtains. And the priests and monks and people gather there in front of it, and since it was their worship time, they were able to move beyond it a little bit, to worship. Lots of incense, and interesting hats and robes. Then the Ethiopians have two chapels. One of the them has a big clock on the wall that is a watch, and the other has a clock that chimes really loudly about every thirty minutes, and it reminded me of that funeral home that we go to sometimes. Also a big pink throne. So the priests and the monks and a few other people gather there, and there's lots of singing, but not like you'd expect, rather singsong and hummy and droney. The monks and priests carry big walking sticks, and they stand and lean on the them, oh, and they and we, take off our shoes when we enter. It was all very interesting and moving in some ways.
THEN there was the Syrian service, which was my favorite. Partly because it was probably this group that is really the most ancient in terms of Christianity, but more so because the main priest's robe was brilliant pink. Not really, that's not the reason. It's because we'd been there the day before, and it's this ancient cave-like room with this old falling-apart wooden altar, and then on Sunday morning, it had been turned into this wonderful space with icons and flowers and incense and wall hangings, and carpet, and it was just lovely! And it was a parish church, meaning that it wasn't just the priests and the monks and the tourists, but that there were families there, too, and there was participation from the congregation (very small group, sitting on little plastic seats). Anyway, it reminded me of our little machine shop church, and how it's full of homeless men and women during the week and then becomes a different space on Sundays. It's holy in both instances, but different. Anyway, I could have stayed there for a very long time.
Hannah was delightful, and one thing that she pointed out was that even though all of these churches have had a hard history of working out their space issues (who gets to clean what, etc., which they haven't done very well, evidentally, because our guide won't let us use the bathrooms there because they are so dirty--if women were in charge, that particular issue would have been settled), that it more or less WORKS. For 200 or so years, they've (once again, more or less) all gotten along. She was quite emphatic about this, and helped us to see it as the miracle it is. Though she also told us about the fight that broke out between the Copts and the Ethiopians a few years ago that resulted in near blindness for the Coptic (I think) Bishop. Sheesh.
Oh, I forgot to tell you: when the Greek Orthodox priests walk into the church, these bells ring and ring and ring, and they hit their big walking sticks on the ground and the crowd parts. I could use a LITTLE MORE RESPECT in the future!
Gotta go! Love you all!
Then tonight we walked around a bit, not in the Old City, but in the more modern part. Jews were streaming out of the Old City after celebrating Pentecost (Shavrot, I think they call it), and were very festive and happy. We also walked for a couple of hours last night, did I already tell you this? It was fun to walk through regular neighborhoods. I feel boring tonight, so will quit writing. I'm NOT bored, mind you, just being boring.
I guess, though, that the one other thing I want to write about is that I practiced Sabbath yesterday, and it was pretty special. Sue had asked me the night before if I was getting any rest. And after walking around the Jewish Quarter of the Old City the day before, on their Sabbath, I thought that I would take my own. So I didn't take my camera with me, or my map, or even my watch. I decided to travel light, as Jesus instructed his disciples to do, and depend on the kindnesses of others. We went out in the morning to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and then ate lunch, and then I went back to the hotel and slept and read all afternoon, which was very nice and very needed. Then that night, as I said earlier, I walked around the city with Bruce, Andy, and Trish. It was a lovely Sabbath, and has set me thinking about what Sabbath really ought to be.
Okay, now I'm warming up. I also want to write about the visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. We went out at about 7:00, with Hannah for our guide. She is Jewish, and knows so much about those churches that it makes your head spin! She took us to five different worship services, four of them in the Church of the HS. Syrian, Copt, Greek Orthodox, Ethiopian, and Arab Greek Orthodox (the last one was not technically in the C of the HS, I don't think). Oh, it was so interesting. Basically, these churches have been sharing the church for hundreds and hundreds of years. And 200 years ago, roughly, they (The Turks? The British? I'm getting so much information that I can't take it all in, anyway, the PIC, People in Charge) passed what they call the Status Quo, which the PIC are really well versed in. So What that meant was that whatever space that particular church had been able to carve out for themselves became theirs. So the Copts (from Egypt) have this little space that is surrounded by what looks like Jesus shower curtains. And the priests and monks and people gather there in front of it, and since it was their worship time, they were able to move beyond it a little bit, to worship. Lots of incense, and interesting hats and robes. Then the Ethiopians have two chapels. One of the them has a big clock on the wall that is a watch, and the other has a clock that chimes really loudly about every thirty minutes, and it reminded me of that funeral home that we go to sometimes. Also a big pink throne. So the priests and the monks and a few other people gather there, and there's lots of singing, but not like you'd expect, rather singsong and hummy and droney. The monks and priests carry big walking sticks, and they stand and lean on the them, oh, and they and we, take off our shoes when we enter. It was all very interesting and moving in some ways.
THEN there was the Syrian service, which was my favorite. Partly because it was probably this group that is really the most ancient in terms of Christianity, but more so because the main priest's robe was brilliant pink. Not really, that's not the reason. It's because we'd been there the day before, and it's this ancient cave-like room with this old falling-apart wooden altar, and then on Sunday morning, it had been turned into this wonderful space with icons and flowers and incense and wall hangings, and carpet, and it was just lovely! And it was a parish church, meaning that it wasn't just the priests and the monks and the tourists, but that there were families there, too, and there was participation from the congregation (very small group, sitting on little plastic seats). Anyway, it reminded me of our little machine shop church, and how it's full of homeless men and women during the week and then becomes a different space on Sundays. It's holy in both instances, but different. Anyway, I could have stayed there for a very long time.
Hannah was delightful, and one thing that she pointed out was that even though all of these churches have had a hard history of working out their space issues (who gets to clean what, etc., which they haven't done very well, evidentally, because our guide won't let us use the bathrooms there because they are so dirty--if women were in charge, that particular issue would have been settled), that it more or less WORKS. For 200 or so years, they've (once again, more or less) all gotten along. She was quite emphatic about this, and helped us to see it as the miracle it is. Though she also told us about the fight that broke out between the Copts and the Ethiopians a few years ago that resulted in near blindness for the Coptic (I think) Bishop. Sheesh.
Oh, I forgot to tell you: when the Greek Orthodox priests walk into the church, these bells ring and ring and ring, and they hit their big walking sticks on the ground and the crowd parts. I could use a LITTLE MORE RESPECT in the future!
Gotta go! Love you all!
Hey Ho from Jerusalem
Hey Friends! I've had so much to say, and haven't managed to get anything on the blog for the last few days. I just composed a wingdinger, then erased it, and now am out of time. But just know that this is such a rich experience, and I love so much to know that some of you are reading along with us. I just got back from an early morning trip to the Western Wall. It's Pentecost, and we were told that the Jews would be joyfully processing there if we got up at five o'clock in the morning. Some of did, and they were, and it was amazing.
Am headed off to Bethlehem today--can you imagine. "And it came to pass in those days..."
But now the little timer is flashing, so I will send this before it stops.
I love you, friends and family.
Cindy
Am headed off to Bethlehem today--can you imagine. "And it came to pass in those days..."
But now the little timer is flashing, so I will send this before it stops.
I love you, friends and family.
Cindy
Pentecost and Journey to Bethlehem
Dear Friends:
Today I’m feeling inspired, renewed, and encouraged out of the richness of our journey.
Inspired: I’m excited about coming home to preach the stories of Jesus anew with the mind-stretching perceptions from this pilgrimage – from a new understanding of the geography (It would have taken 3-4 days on foot, in camel caravan, to go from Nazareth to Bethlehem.), of the architecture (“Courts of the LORD’s house” means something different once you’ve walked on a Roman courtyard at a palace or temple.), of Jewish worship practices… and the list could go on and on…
Renewed: Some of us rose early this morning to join observant Jews praying at the Western Wall as part of their celebration of Shavuot, the Festival of Weeks (Pentecost). They had been moving toward the wall long before we joined them at 5, but we made it in time to be in their midst, thousands (really!) thronging through the narrow streets of the Old City to pray at the wall. Cindy reminded us of the beginning of the Pentecost story in Acts 2 where “all the believers were gathered together in one place.” We were allowed to travel in their midst and to pray as they prayed.
I’ve felt a strong sense of the presence of Krister Stendahl since arriving in Jerusalem. He’s a mentor who died recently. Krister was a Lutheran Pastor, a New Testament scholar and member of the faculty of Harvard Divinity School. For a time he served as Bishop of Stockholm in his native Sweden. Here are his principles for interfaith dialogue: 1. Let each one define him or herself. 2. When you compare yourself with others, do not bear false witness: don’t compare the best of your own tradition with the worst of theirs. 3. Allow yourself the experience of “holy envy,” an experience of wonder and appreciation of something in the other’s tradition which you do not have – not to appropriate it for yourself, but to receive the other in their strength and fullness. For a more articulate rendering of the principles than my allows, check out the obituaries posted at Harvard.edu One of them quotes the principles. Giving thanks to God for your life and witness, Krister.
Encouraged: We met Pastor Mitri Raheb this afternoon. He’s pastor of Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, a long time resident of the city, a third generation Lutheran, with a family Christian history probably stretching back to the first Century. We loved our conversation with him and our visit to the ministries of the Diyar Consortium sponsored by the church. Diyar means “home” or “homeland” in Arabic. His work encourages me in my dream of somehow working to develop new and stronger leadership for Lutheran urban ministries in US cities. For he has been able to articulate a vision based on the ministry of Jesus for his place, challenging as the circumstances are that they face. They have been able to help others to see their part in a community of hope, and to live, Muslims and Christians together. We give thanks for the ministry of Pastor Raheb and for all the staff and people of the Diyar Corsortium ministries, and I personally give thanks that he is helping to keep my hope and dream alive.
We are wrapping up our pilgrimage and soon we turn our faces West toward home. We’re missing all of you!
Blessings, this day.
Pastor Janet Peterman
Today I’m feeling inspired, renewed, and encouraged out of the richness of our journey.
Inspired: I’m excited about coming home to preach the stories of Jesus anew with the mind-stretching perceptions from this pilgrimage – from a new understanding of the geography (It would have taken 3-4 days on foot, in camel caravan, to go from Nazareth to Bethlehem.), of the architecture (“Courts of the LORD’s house” means something different once you’ve walked on a Roman courtyard at a palace or temple.), of Jewish worship practices… and the list could go on and on…
Renewed: Some of us rose early this morning to join observant Jews praying at the Western Wall as part of their celebration of Shavuot, the Festival of Weeks (Pentecost). They had been moving toward the wall long before we joined them at 5, but we made it in time to be in their midst, thousands (really!) thronging through the narrow streets of the Old City to pray at the wall. Cindy reminded us of the beginning of the Pentecost story in Acts 2 where “all the believers were gathered together in one place.” We were allowed to travel in their midst and to pray as they prayed.
I’ve felt a strong sense of the presence of Krister Stendahl since arriving in Jerusalem. He’s a mentor who died recently. Krister was a Lutheran Pastor, a New Testament scholar and member of the faculty of Harvard Divinity School. For a time he served as Bishop of Stockholm in his native Sweden. Here are his principles for interfaith dialogue: 1. Let each one define him or herself. 2. When you compare yourself with others, do not bear false witness: don’t compare the best of your own tradition with the worst of theirs. 3. Allow yourself the experience of “holy envy,” an experience of wonder and appreciation of something in the other’s tradition which you do not have – not to appropriate it for yourself, but to receive the other in their strength and fullness. For a more articulate rendering of the principles than my allows, check out the obituaries posted at Harvard.edu One of them quotes the principles. Giving thanks to God for your life and witness, Krister.
Encouraged: We met Pastor Mitri Raheb this afternoon. He’s pastor of Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, a long time resident of the city, a third generation Lutheran, with a family Christian history probably stretching back to the first Century. We loved our conversation with him and our visit to the ministries of the Diyar Consortium sponsored by the church. Diyar means “home” or “homeland” in Arabic. His work encourages me in my dream of somehow working to develop new and stronger leadership for Lutheran urban ministries in US cities. For he has been able to articulate a vision based on the ministry of Jesus for his place, challenging as the circumstances are that they face. They have been able to help others to see their part in a community of hope, and to live, Muslims and Christians together. We give thanks for the ministry of Pastor Raheb and for all the staff and people of the Diyar Corsortium ministries, and I personally give thanks that he is helping to keep my hope and dream alive.
We are wrapping up our pilgrimage and soon we turn our faces West toward home. We’re missing all of you!
Blessings, this day.
Pastor Janet Peterman
More Pictures from Bruce
This is Dimitri Raheb. He is the pastor of the Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem. A major portion of his ministry has been developing a vision for the Palistinian people that makes for positive change in overall human relations. He is an Arab Christian, and his family has been a part of the Christian tradition for as long as he can remember. He directs the International Center in the city of Bethlehem. It is an amazing ministry and he is a gifted person working for peace in the midst of terribly difficult situation. He does this by creating opportunities for education, employment, and marketable skills (and creative expression) in an economy that has been devistated by a miriad of circumstances.
We visited Bethlehem today. Upon entering the city, we are reminded of the separation that exsists in this land of the Patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Sarah, Rebekah, and Rachel as well!) How one views this wall depends greatly upon your perspective. You can guess who sees it as protection and who views it as captivity.
Could these be the new weapons to wage peace?One of the programs we learned about today is engaging the Palistinian People in using various forms of media, including art and documentary filmmaking as a way of telling their story and focusing the attention of the world on their situation. Paintings, glass work, and movies seem more conducive to peacemaking that guns and tanks...
This is the Traditional Site of the Nativity
This is the main Altar above the site of the Nativity
This is the Traditional Site of the Nativityit is in a cave below the main Altar in the Church.
The Church of the Nativity has been standing on this site, making it one of the oldest Christian shrines in the Holy Land. The Persians did not destroy the church when they conquered the land in the seventh century. Why? Because the mosaic representations included the "magi from the East". The Persians recognized themselves in the artwork, and spared the church.
This is the main Altar above the site of the NativitySunday, June 8, 2008
Sunday in Jerusalem
We went to church today - incase anyone was worried what their pastor was up to. We went to more than one church all in one place...the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It was a bit of a Pentecostal feeling with all these different denominations and different languages worshiping throughout this ancient and sacred space...all at the same time. We had a wonderful guide who taught us more about Christian church history than any of us could remember from seminary - and she is Jewish. I see I need to crack open those seminary books - or dream about opening them...someday!! It was an insightful morning.
This whole trip has been beyond expectations. Now that we are here in Jerusalem - this place that contains so many sacred places for our faith - I find myself missing the more pastoral scenes of the Galilee where Jesus walked the fields from town to town. He was very much in touch with the land and the folks who worked the land and fished the waters. I am more at home in that setting...but Bonnie and I have learned how to double team the vendors in the streets of the old city in the haggling process - and make a good deal!!
We will be home before we know it - but we will never be the same. It is so nice to know that folks at home are praying for us and journeying with us through reading our blogs. See you all soon!
This whole trip has been beyond expectations. Now that we are here in Jerusalem - this place that contains so many sacred places for our faith - I find myself missing the more pastoral scenes of the Galilee where Jesus walked the fields from town to town. He was very much in touch with the land and the folks who worked the land and fished the waters. I am more at home in that setting...but Bonnie and I have learned how to double team the vendors in the streets of the old city in the haggling process - and make a good deal!!
We will be home before we know it - but we will never be the same. It is so nice to know that folks at home are praying for us and journeying with us through reading our blogs. See you all soon!
Christy in Jerusalem
Great day Saturday and today. Yesterday, we got to see the stations of the cross. They are much better presented in any of the many catholic churches and monestaries I've attended. It was surprising how close they were, how close everything is!
The markets which surround some of the stations are amazing. We have a farmer's market in Hartville, Ohio. It is like 10 times the stuff in 1/2 of the space. And the merchants are the 3-d version of email spam, constantly after you to see their store, to take their card, to have a free gift. I wonder if these guys to mass emails.
We were also at the western wall with the orthodox Jews during their Sabbath. It was overwhelming to see the mass of religious folks praying alone together at the wall. There are chairs and small stands to read from. A scroll or three were present, I believe readers take turns reading from it continiously. There isn't any pictures, because it is a holy time. Writing is also forbidden (it is work I'm guessing)
Men and women are separated by a partition, men fill about 3/4 of the space and the women have the remainer. A young girl came over and nudged her brother(?) in the men's side. He was not ready to stop reading aloud and gave her the universal dismissal of an older sibling to a younger. Some things transcend language and religion.
Today (Sunday) we went early to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre the Crusaders name for the church of the resurrection, containing the traditional tomb of Jesus and the rock of Golgatha. If memroy serves, we started with the Ethiopian service (those guys can sing and chant!) , and went to the Coptic (Egyptian), Syrian, Armenian, and Greek Orthodox. We also went to the local Greek Orthodox. All of these meet in small chapels and go on about the same time. (The Greek Orthodox have a large room, at is the exception.) We couldn't understand the words, but we recognized the faith. Incense, candles, song, chants, readings, and procession (with accompany bells from the tower) were all included.
Thanks to the CF Foundation for this trip. Pray for the Holy Land!
The markets which surround some of the stations are amazing. We have a farmer's market in Hartville, Ohio. It is like 10 times the stuff in 1/2 of the space. And the merchants are the 3-d version of email spam, constantly after you to see their store, to take their card, to have a free gift. I wonder if these guys to mass emails.
We were also at the western wall with the orthodox Jews during their Sabbath. It was overwhelming to see the mass of religious folks praying alone together at the wall. There are chairs and small stands to read from. A scroll or three were present, I believe readers take turns reading from it continiously. There isn't any pictures, because it is a holy time. Writing is also forbidden (it is work I'm guessing)
Men and women are separated by a partition, men fill about 3/4 of the space and the women have the remainer. A young girl came over and nudged her brother(?) in the men's side. He was not ready to stop reading aloud and gave her the universal dismissal of an older sibling to a younger. Some things transcend language and religion.
Today (Sunday) we went early to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre the Crusaders name for the church of the resurrection, containing the traditional tomb of Jesus and the rock of Golgatha. If memroy serves, we started with the Ethiopian service (those guys can sing and chant!) , and went to the Coptic (Egyptian), Syrian, Armenian, and Greek Orthodox. We also went to the local Greek Orthodox. All of these meet in small chapels and go on about the same time. (The Greek Orthodox have a large room, at is the exception.) We couldn't understand the words, but we recognized the faith. Incense, candles, song, chants, readings, and procession (with accompany bells from the tower) were all included.
Thanks to the CF Foundation for this trip. Pray for the Holy Land!
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Bruce's Blog - Reflections in Pictures!
This is the view from near the church of the Holy Sepulchre looking back to the Mount of OlivesThe Temple Mount (Haram esh Sharif) is in the fore groundthe golden Dome of the Rock is the notable feature
We followed the steps of Jesus today
This is the altar over the Rock of Calvaryit is lighted only by candles and oil lamps
Come, see where they laid him!
View of the Greek Orthodox Chapel
The market place is colorful and full of life!
Come, see where they laid him!The tomb is empty!!
(This is the site of the garden tomb)
View of the Greek Orthodox Chapel
The market place is colorful and full of life!Shops are in abundance in the narrow passages of the Old City
Bruce
Birthday in the Holy Land
What a birthday to spend it in the Holy Land! I didnt quite remember which day it was till I checked my watch. That day we headed to Jerusalem from Tiberias. What a great day to see the history of economics and politics in relation to the land at Megiddo. And then Caesarea by the Sea, amazing to have such ancient ruins and historical site next to a power plant and people doing water sports (jet skis, fishing, and windsurfing!). The ancient next to the modern. Strange and yet reminds me how new our country's history is.
And then there we were on the Mount of Olives looking at the old city and the Temple on the Mount. It's big! Really it is quite overwhelming. There is so much.
Today we started at the Western Wall during Sabbath. The spiritual presence was quite powerful. I managed to get close to the wall and touch it, standing between Jewish women. A few others from my group came by me and we stood there crying. At what, I am not fully sure. I would still need to make time to reflect upon what was going on. It was just the beginning of a full morning walking back and forth around the Old City seeing the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (site of Jesus' crucifixion, anointing and tomb). The devotion of the crowds gathered, the praying, the closeness to a physical site and places of worship.
What a way to spend a birthday!!
And then there we were on the Mount of Olives looking at the old city and the Temple on the Mount. It's big! Really it is quite overwhelming. There is so much.
Today we started at the Western Wall during Sabbath. The spiritual presence was quite powerful. I managed to get close to the wall and touch it, standing between Jewish women. A few others from my group came by me and we stood there crying. At what, I am not fully sure. I would still need to make time to reflect upon what was going on. It was just the beginning of a full morning walking back and forth around the Old City seeing the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (site of Jesus' crucifixion, anointing and tomb). The devotion of the crowds gathered, the praying, the closeness to a physical site and places of worship.
What a way to spend a birthday!!
Turning our Faces toward Jerusalem
Oh, yes, and here I am.On our way to Jerusalem,
we made our way to Caesarea on the Mediterranean Sea
ruins of an ancient Roman city
from where the apostle Paul set sail when he went to Rome.
You have turned my mourning into dancing
O God...
so that my soul may praise you
and not be silent. (Psalm 30:11-12)
Entrance to the Church of the Holy SepulchreToday we noted where the stations of the cross are
the first ones
marking the places on Jesus' journey to the place of the skull.
We visited inside the Church of the Sepulcher
drawn to generations of prayer and devotion
where Jesus suffered in the last hours of his life,
was crucified, died and was raised.
I'm feeling disoriented
still
at all the building on that lonely place
that was once outside the city walls.
But then we walked past the place where Jesus put the paralyzed man
into the pool to be healed
or sang in the sanctuary of a crusader church
and heard our voices ring with an echo
long after we stopped
and I am moved beyond words.
Blessings to you this night!
Pastor Janet Peterman
P. S. Please excuse my mistake on my last entry -- It's Amariah McIntosh, not McDonald. We've been making too many jokes about the McDrives in all of the McDonald's. So sorry, Amariah!
Pictures at the Mediterranean before Arriving in Jerusalem
Here is a picture of the whole group at the aqueduct at Caesarea Maritima--except I think Wayne must be invisible behind Toni! Immediately after this picture was shot, nearly all the group made a run to go splashing in the Mediterranean Sea (behind us) until it was time to slowly and reluctantly put shoes back on to go on to see the Roman city of Caesarea, and then to proceed on to Jerusalem. Below is another picture of the aqueduct and some of Herod's columns in front of the sea.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Friday Blog From Bruce
As I write this entry today, we are on our way to Jerusalem. Galilee is beautiful and it has been meaningful for me to spend time in the place where Jesus’ ministry began and where the essential principals of what it means to be a disciple “of the way” were forged. Since my last writing we have enjoyed some time for reflection. Thursday was our “day off” and members of our group headed in different directions to visit places of interest and curiosity. Some took a bus to a nearby town for shopping and cultural immersion. Others sought out an archeological site with a massive reconstruction of a city that dates to the Roman era. A few stayed at Tiberius, to read and relax. Trisha, Linda and I rented a car and traveled about 75 kilometers north to the Hula Nature preserve. Here we had an opportunity to explore the wetlands and marshes that comprise one of the most significant stops for birds migrating from Northern Europe to South Africa. Those birds have already passed through (in March) and will not return until November. However, we did have the opportunity to view a number of resident species including the Palestinian sunbird, the Middle Eastern gold finch, pelicans (different from our pelicans on the East Coast) terns, herons, parakeets (more like parrots than our caged birds of the same name), and swallows as well as water buffalo, African catfish and turtles.
We viewed a film in “3 D” many parts of which were from the documentary “Winged Migration”). It was an “experience” as at times we found our seats moving, “wind” in our face, and water sprayed in our faces. It was a restful day that included a lunch at a kibbutz (a sort of commune) and a return to the cliffs of Arbel on the way back to the hotel. Cost of the car for the day 139 NIS; cost of a half a tank of gas 140 NIS! (Gas is about $8 per gallon).
I also want to make mention of Wednesday. We took a boat ride down the Sea of Galilee and it was not hard to imagine Jesus on these waters with the disciples. About midway, we stopped and read the scripture of Jesus coming to the disciples during the night as they “rowed hard against the wind”. It is in this story that Jesus walks on the water (no sign of any stones!) and invites Peter to walk to him on the stormy sea. This was a powerful experience.
At the conclusion of our sailing excursion, we arrived at a museum which contains a fantastic archeological find: A fishing boat, dated to the time of Jesus (1st century). It is hard to fathom Jesus in the boat with eleven others! I have included a picture of both the “modern” fisherman’s boat used currently on the sea, and the reconstructed boat that Peter and Andrew might have owned.
Wednesday afternoon also included a walk to the southern end of Tiberius and a look at ruins of the original city that was constructed here at the time of Jesus (about 22 CE). We could see the main road and the entrance to the city. Several other cities have been built on this site (right after the builders had razed the city that stood here at the time they came!) and their remains are also visible. This includes a bath house built in the Roman era that was utilized by various conquering civilizations for close to 800 years!
What does it mean to be a pilgrim in this place? It is still overwhelming! I am completing today’s entry to the blog as we arrive in Jerusalem. From the Mount of Olives we have viewed the Temple Mount. No words would come. This is Holy Ground.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Some pictures from Banias
On Tuesday we all went up to Banias (Caesarea Phillipi) in the Golan Heights. Here are some pictures from that journey. In order: the remains of a temple to the Greek god Pan; the waterfall we hiked to; a jeep left as a memorial to a soldier who died in the 1967 war; a group picture from a Druse village where we stopped for lunch; the view across the border toward Syria.
Stranger in an Holy Land
I'm going to be a lot more tolerant of non-native speakers when I get back to the USA. I'm one now. There are frequent misunderstandings. From numbers repeated in English after being called repeatedly in Hebrew, to the apparent absence of a Hebrew word for "washcloth" (small towel doesn't work) to how many minutes are available at the Internet cafe. (I didn't understand how I was going to be credited for the lack of minutes on my log in. The poor man must think I'm a dolt.) I'm going to remember that what is wrong is often just a misunderstanding instead of malice.
This is our day off of group travel. Some have gone bird watching, others to an archaeological dig, others like me, are just hanging around the hotel and the Tiberius business district preparing for our road trip to Jerusalem tomorrow. So we don't have our guide and leaders to help us navigate the culture and we are outside the English/dollar bubble of the tourist sites. (You know it is a tourist site when prices are in dollars instead of NIS (New Israeli Shekels)
A good woman in our church has a devotion she wrote that talked about the worship service in the church I serve last Sunday. I invited our "sister church" over. (OK--we rent space to their congregation, but we are working at being related in the Holy Lord instead of just landlord) Their congregation and ours don't speak the same worship language. Much understanding and patience was required on guest and host as music style, time, volume and energy levels was adjusted by both.
Maybe hospitality, understanding of non-native speakers, and patience is the best way approach God's work with us. We are strangers in God's holy land. We learn to be holy (and not all have the same teaching!) I hope this pilgrimage teaches me how to understand how to be more like a native as I visit the Holy Land now and the Kingdom of God the rest of my life.
This is our day off of group travel. Some have gone bird watching, others to an archaeological dig, others like me, are just hanging around the hotel and the Tiberius business district preparing for our road trip to Jerusalem tomorrow. So we don't have our guide and leaders to help us navigate the culture and we are outside the English/dollar bubble of the tourist sites. (You know it is a tourist site when prices are in dollars instead of NIS (New Israeli Shekels)
A good woman in our church has a devotion she wrote that talked about the worship service in the church I serve last Sunday. I invited our "sister church" over. (OK--we rent space to their congregation, but we are working at being related in the Holy Lord instead of just landlord) Their congregation and ours don't speak the same worship language. Much understanding and patience was required on guest and host as music style, time, volume and energy levels was adjusted by both.
Maybe hospitality, understanding of non-native speakers, and patience is the best way approach God's work with us. We are strangers in God's holy land. We learn to be holy (and not all have the same teaching!) I hope this pilgrimage teaches me how to understand how to be more like a native as I visit the Holy Land now and the Kingdom of God the rest of my life.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Listening to Oboe and Piano: Hoity Toity
Hey Sweet Friends! I did another post yesterday, but it hasn't been posted yet, as I put it on someone's computer. But it will get there eventually. Let's see, if you've read the other blogs, you've seen what we did today. Rode a boat on the Sea of Galilee, and then visited a museum where they have the well-preserved remains of a fishing boat that's TWO thousand years old. That was quite a find, I'd say. Then Janet, my roommate, and I walked down the sidewalk by the Sea of Galilee to the spa where they have hot mineral pools. It was hotter than blazes, but I'm glad we went. It wasn't much to write home about, but if we hadn't gone, I would have always thought, "I wish I would have gone to those mineral springs in Tiberias." We don't know what the mineral was, but it was green. That's why Tiberias was built in the first place, because of the hot springs, so it all felt very historical. We took a taxi back, which was the smartest move of the day.
Our discussion was really good tonight, and our worship, too. This is a good group of folks, and I am learning some good stuff about myself from being with them. I won't divulge here, but it's exciting when you are able to say, "I am learning about me." Which I did. Outloud. When I was alone in my room. Did a little dance, even.
Tomorrow is our "day off," and some of us are going to Safed, which is the hometown of the Kabbalistic Judiasm. Sounds like a really neat old city.
Well, someone is waiting for the computer, so I think that's all I need to say. Oh, about the piano and oboe, there's a concert going on here in the hotel. I sat in on it while I was waiting for the computer. No plastic Jesus bottle yet, which I am sure is what is uppermost on your minds.
Love, love, love,
Cindy
Our discussion was really good tonight, and our worship, too. This is a good group of folks, and I am learning some good stuff about myself from being with them. I won't divulge here, but it's exciting when you are able to say, "I am learning about me." Which I did. Outloud. When I was alone in my room. Did a little dance, even.
Tomorrow is our "day off," and some of us are going to Safed, which is the hometown of the Kabbalistic Judiasm. Sounds like a really neat old city.
Well, someone is waiting for the computer, so I think that's all I need to say. Oh, about the piano and oboe, there's a concert going on here in the hotel. I sat in on it while I was waiting for the computer. No plastic Jesus bottle yet, which I am sure is what is uppermost on your minds.
Love, love, love,
Cindy
Chuck Queen's Reflections
I recall a nationally known African American pastor reflecting on his sermon to a very somber, solemn congregation of mostly white Presbyterians in a poorly lit, warm, narrow sanctuary. He remarked that everything about that place cried, "Slow down, take it easy, nothing is going to happen here." He concluded his sermon feeling that the preaching event was a complete disaster. As people filed out and shook his hand, an elderly stately gentleman in a three piece suite shuffled up to him, looked him in the eyes with the utomost seriousness and said almost in a whisper: "That was a deeply moving religious experience."
Today we went on a boat ride across the Sea of Galilee. Somewhere in the middle of the lake the engine was shut off, and the Scripture passage of Jesus coming to the disciples on the lake was read. Then we sang and echoed the Lord's prayer. The singing of the Lord's prayer in community on the stillness of the lake was for me a "deeply moving religious experience."
Last night in our "table talk" we reflected on prayer in light of Mark 9:14-29. The sharing stimulated my thinking on prayer.
A man asks Jesus if he is able to do anything about the condition of his demonized son. Jesus' disciples were ineffective in healing the boy. Jesus says, "All things can be done for the one who believes." All things can be done, but that doesn't mean they will be done. Two people of equal faith can pray for healing; in the one case it may be effective, in the other ineffective. Or is it? Who are we to judge what is effective or ineffective prayer? And how can we know what other factors are involved--from God's side, our side, and from the world's side? Prayer is a mystery.
Jesus said to his discples: "This kind comes out only through prayer." What kind of prayer? In all of Jesus' healings in the Gospels Jesus does not pray, he commands healing with a word or touch. Is Jesus prayed up, so to speak? Did he mean for the disciples to withdraw more often, as he did, in solitude to some desert place to pray at night or in the early morning? Would that have made a difference? Or is it the faith of Jesus that they lack? (Not faith in Jesus, but the faith of Jesus). Had they the faith of Jesus would they have been able to heal the boy? But how does one acquire the faith of Jesus? Is it a gift? Are there things we can do to ready ourselves to receive the gift? Is this something we should aspire for? Pray for? Work for?Prayer is a mystery.
I engage in intercessory prayer for the needs and hurts and suffering of the world. I pray for the healing--physically, socially, spiritually, relationally, and emotionally--of the world, the nations, communities, individuals, and creation. I pray for justice and peace and reconciliation. Do I know how it works? No. Nor do I believe that God will intervene and override the freedom of God's creation. Still I pray.Prayer is a mystery.
When the disciples asked Jesus about prayer in Luke 11 Jesus responded with a very simple, set pattern for praying that is rooted in the kingdom of God and the forgiveness of sins that we both receive and give to others. If our lives are oriented in God's justice, peace, and forgiveness then perhaps all we do is prayer.
Study is prayer.Silence and solitude is prayer.Gratitude and praise is prayer.The work of faith, the labor of love, and the endurance of hope is prayer.Service to others--contending for justice, forgiving the offender, offering a cup of cold water to one who is thirsty--is prayer.All--in God, with God, through God, and for God--it's all prayer.
And then maybe not.Prayer is a mystery.
Today we went on a boat ride across the Sea of Galilee. Somewhere in the middle of the lake the engine was shut off, and the Scripture passage of Jesus coming to the disciples on the lake was read. Then we sang and echoed the Lord's prayer. The singing of the Lord's prayer in community on the stillness of the lake was for me a "deeply moving religious experience."
Last night in our "table talk" we reflected on prayer in light of Mark 9:14-29. The sharing stimulated my thinking on prayer.
A man asks Jesus if he is able to do anything about the condition of his demonized son. Jesus' disciples were ineffective in healing the boy. Jesus says, "All things can be done for the one who believes." All things can be done, but that doesn't mean they will be done. Two people of equal faith can pray for healing; in the one case it may be effective, in the other ineffective. Or is it? Who are we to judge what is effective or ineffective prayer? And how can we know what other factors are involved--from God's side, our side, and from the world's side? Prayer is a mystery.
Jesus said to his discples: "This kind comes out only through prayer." What kind of prayer? In all of Jesus' healings in the Gospels Jesus does not pray, he commands healing with a word or touch. Is Jesus prayed up, so to speak? Did he mean for the disciples to withdraw more often, as he did, in solitude to some desert place to pray at night or in the early morning? Would that have made a difference? Or is it the faith of Jesus that they lack? (Not faith in Jesus, but the faith of Jesus). Had they the faith of Jesus would they have been able to heal the boy? But how does one acquire the faith of Jesus? Is it a gift? Are there things we can do to ready ourselves to receive the gift? Is this something we should aspire for? Pray for? Work for?Prayer is a mystery.
I engage in intercessory prayer for the needs and hurts and suffering of the world. I pray for the healing--physically, socially, spiritually, relationally, and emotionally--of the world, the nations, communities, individuals, and creation. I pray for justice and peace and reconciliation. Do I know how it works? No. Nor do I believe that God will intervene and override the freedom of God's creation. Still I pray.Prayer is a mystery.
When the disciples asked Jesus about prayer in Luke 11 Jesus responded with a very simple, set pattern for praying that is rooted in the kingdom of God and the forgiveness of sins that we both receive and give to others. If our lives are oriented in God's justice, peace, and forgiveness then perhaps all we do is prayer.
Study is prayer.Silence and solitude is prayer.Gratitude and praise is prayer.The work of faith, the labor of love, and the endurance of hope is prayer.Service to others--contending for justice, forgiving the offender, offering a cup of cold water to one who is thirsty--is prayer.All--in God, with God, through God, and for God--it's all prayer.
And then maybe not.Prayer is a mystery.
The View from Rev. Hawkins
I've been to the mountaintop, I've looked over and I've seen...well I'll tell you later what I saw.
Jordan River chilly and cold. Chilled my body not my soul. I've already been to the water, I've already been baptized so I just decided to step in the Jordan River for a refresher.
At the Sea of Galilee...I am not able to walk on water yet.Rev. Altonnette D. Hawkins
Sailing on Faith
Today we sailed on Faith on the Sea of Galilee. Being naturally drawn to water, | absolutely loved it. I could picture Jesus talking to the disciples, leading them out to the water. The water itself drew me in. About half way across the lake, the boat stopped and we read the story of Jesus walking on water to the disciples. We then sang the The Lord's Prayer as an echo and also sang several Hebrew songs. Our boat captain, Daniel, sang Amazing Grace in English and Hebrew. I could have stayed on the lake all day. I am totally amazed at how the scriptures have come alive for me here. I am reading them with fresh, exciting eyes, and have spent each day trying to drink in as much as possible and to seal it all in my memory. My prayers are also with my family and my congregation back home.
The Beauty of the Holy Land
Dear Friends,As I was leaving home, a friend described pilgrimage as a journey of the heart. I like that way of describing our trip. My heart is often full these days!
Today I'd also like to share some pictures. I'm having ahard time getting them lined up on the page, but here they are: First, I'd like to show you our group leaders: Trisha Tull and David Hester from Louisville Presbyterian Seminary. They introduced themselves to you at the top of the blog, but here's what they look like, below. (David Hester is on the left, with David Lawrence, a trip participant.)
Then there's Bruce Barkhauer (top right) and Amariah McIntosh (on Arbel Cliff, above the Sea of Galilee). Lots of us have cameras, but they agreed to be our trip photographers.
I also wanted to show you some of the stunning beauty of this land -- just a sampling. When we visited the Hermon Springs Nature Resever yesterday, I kept finding myself singing the spiritual "Like a tree planted by the water, we shall not be moved..." It is hot and so dry here right now, and everywhere we are reminded of the need for water and our thirst both for water and for the Living God. We have been touring sites around the Sea of Galilee, including a boat ride today across the lake. Often we turn and find the water beckoning us to remember our thirst, and to come to the waters.
Many blessings as you travel with us and support our pilgrimage with prayer.
Pastor Janet S. Peterman
The Rev. Dr. Trisha Tull
and the Rev. Dr. David Hester
Pastor Mac, Rev.Amariah McIntosh
Come to the living waters!waters of the Hermon Stream
Worship on a Boat
We take turns leading worship at the beginning and end of our days together. We also have scripture readings while at the sites we visit that tie the place to the text. We had an extended time of worship today since we had the boat to ourselves. Two of our members, Linda and Bonnie led us in a sung and signed version of the Lord's Prayer while we were on the Sea of Galilee. Here is a snippet of their offering.
Put Your Hand in the Hand of the Man
Shalom to all: Peace to you, Kim. Glad to know someone is keep track of me. Just finished a ride on a boat, Faith, on the Sea of Galilee. It was quite a beautiful and peaceful ride. You could see all of the lands around Galilee. The mountains of the Holy Land stretched out before us. Being on the water is such a peaceful experience but the knowing Jesus was once on the Sea of Gaililee make it all the more peaceful. This is a strange land. Full of peace, full of war. Full of life, full of killing. I can't get me mind wrapped around it Yet. More later.
Peace for now, Fran
Peace for now, Fran
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim in Tiberias
The renewal process is already taking place. It is so inspiring to be here; there are no words to express how great it is to walk in the places where Jesus walked, to go to his birthplace, Nazareth, worship at the Mount of Beatitudes, visit the location of the feeding of the 5000, to view the beautiful Sea of Galilee everyday right outside our hotel and throughout the region. We went to the ancient city on the hill, Zippori, and yes there are bushes and trees on the mountaintops where you would not expect any vegetation, and let me not forget the caves embedded in the mountians. We went to Mt. Tabor the place of the transfiguration and today we climbed Mt. Hermon. I have been running for Jesus a long time and I'm not tired yet until I climb Mt. Herman.
And did I mention the food, I can't say enough about the food. It is good eating, fresh vegetables, fruits and wonderful desserts. We do enough walking and climbing to burn the calories from our meals. I have taken lot of pictures and will share them upon my return. On Friday, we leave Tiberias to go to stay in Jerusalem for a week. Anticipation is making me wait! Until nest time, be blessed and live well.
Rev. Hawkins
And did I mention the food, I can't say enough about the food. It is good eating, fresh vegetables, fruits and wonderful desserts. We do enough walking and climbing to burn the calories from our meals. I have taken lot of pictures and will share them upon my return. On Friday, we leave Tiberias to go to stay in Jerusalem for a week. Anticipation is making me wait! Until nest time, be blessed and live well.
Rev. Hawkins
Today was a day of contrasts. Our trip to the nature preserve at Banias was filled with the striking beauty of the God of Creation. The Greeks once used this site for the veneration of the god Pan. Along the steep cliffs are niches which held ancient altars offering devotion to the divine beings we associate with mythology. This area was prized for its springs which form the head waters of the Jordan River. Clear, pure water cascades down from the mountain. Along the stream beds are centuries old flour mills and other vestiges of civilizations now past. We walked under a bridge built by the Romans – constructed well enough that modern traffic passes overhead! Herod’s son Philip had his palace here at the time of Jesus. It was in this region where Peter is recorded in scripture has first having made the “good confession” that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God.
This picturesque and pastoral setting is located in the territory that was seized by Israel in the 1967 war. Syrian land mines surround the park. Near the waterfall pictured today is also this memorial to an Israeli soldier who died during the war when his vehicle was forced off the precipice in fierce fighting.
Following a delightful lunch, that included a first taste of falafels for many in our group, we continued our trek passing through more land that was formally Syrian and is now a part of talks for peace. We stopped to observe another contradiction. Fertile orchards loaded with the ripening fruit of olives, cherries, citrus, and apples surround the ruins of a Syrian city laid waste in the 1967 war. Behind us on the hill was large military installation peering across the Syrian boarder, probing with electronic eyes to make certain they will not be caught unprepared, as they were in the Yom Kipper war in 1973. The United Nations maintains a presence at this location, supervising the “disengagement treaty” patrolling along a ½ mile wide strip of land that currently separates the two powers. It is the only passable border entry point between the two countries and only the Druze (a secret religious sect that has members in Syria, Lebanon and Israel) and members of the United Nations military can legally cross. We passed numerous military installations that were bustling with activity. The threat of war is a constant companion in daily life for people who live in the Land called Holy.
The tensions run high between the cultures. Neither has much trust, in many cases, much use for the other. At lunch today, a Jewish woman “cut into” our line while we where getting food and the person running the cash register said “Jews, I just can’t stand the Jews.” Yesterday, in a conversation with a young Jewish woman, she expressed to me her understanding that the obstacles to peace where that “the Palestinians don’t just want the land, they want all of us off of it.”
If there is to be peace here in the future, it appears to me to require more than simple human effort. It will have to be a “God thing” to be total and long lasting. Contrasts indeed – These are beautiful people in a beautiful land – and along side of them, centuries of ugly and violent feelings toward one another.
Some demons require much prayer to be exorcised, says Jesus.
This picturesque and pastoral setting is located in the territory that was seized by Israel in the 1967 war. Syrian land mines surround the park. Near the waterfall pictured today is also this memorial to an Israeli soldier who died during the war when his vehicle was forced off the precipice in fierce fighting.
Following a delightful lunch, that included a first taste of falafels for many in our group, we continued our trek passing through more land that was formally Syrian and is now a part of talks for peace. We stopped to observe another contradiction. Fertile orchards loaded with the ripening fruit of olives, cherries, citrus, and apples surround the ruins of a Syrian city laid waste in the 1967 war. Behind us on the hill was large military installation peering across the Syrian boarder, probing with electronic eyes to make certain they will not be caught unprepared, as they were in the Yom Kipper war in 1973. The United Nations maintains a presence at this location, supervising the “disengagement treaty” patrolling along a ½ mile wide strip of land that currently separates the two powers. It is the only passable border entry point between the two countries and only the Druze (a secret religious sect that has members in Syria, Lebanon and Israel) and members of the United Nations military can legally cross. We passed numerous military installations that were bustling with activity. The threat of war is a constant companion in daily life for people who live in the Land called Holy.
The tensions run high between the cultures. Neither has much trust, in many cases, much use for the other. At lunch today, a Jewish woman “cut into” our line while we where getting food and the person running the cash register said “Jews, I just can’t stand the Jews.” Yesterday, in a conversation with a young Jewish woman, she expressed to me her understanding that the obstacles to peace where that “the Palestinians don’t just want the land, they want all of us off of it.”
If there is to be peace here in the future, it appears to me to require more than simple human effort. It will have to be a “God thing” to be total and long lasting. Contrasts indeed – These are beautiful people in a beautiful land – and along side of them, centuries of ugly and violent feelings toward one another.
Some demons require much prayer to be exorcised, says Jesus.
musings from Barb
Off to the Golan Heights today. The longest trip so far and for me one of the more interesting. We arrived at Cesarea Phillipi, now Banias, the town built before Jesus ministry, and the one mentioned in the Gospels. The place was carved out of a mountain and is stunning. A beautiful place with clear clean water and natural springs. A number of us had great fun walking a trail to the water falls, very picturesque.
Sobering though, and an indication that we were no longer on the Western side of the Sea of Galilee, were the barb wired areas on either side of the road with red triangle warning signs indicating mine fields. These mines were left by the Syrians when the Israelis took the Golan Heights in 1967. The mines have never been cleared. Our map to Banias shows mine fields all around the area.
I noticed an off-duty Israeli soldier in civilian clothing with his gun slung over his back, as he and his friends made a sightseeing trip to Banias. This is not an uncommon sight.
As we continued to travel further in the area, we saw many Israeli tanks and soldiers, and stopped to notice the Israeli/Syrian border. At the outlook over the border we met four Israeli soldiers on a break. One young man who spoke English fairly well expressed his skepticism about the current peace talks with Syria. He was certain that the prime minister was trying to distract from his current domestic problems by reaching seeking peace.
Continuing, on either side of our bus we could see villages that were destroyed in the 1967 war as well as blown up and empty Syrian army outposts.
We also pass several new Israeli settlements.
I want so much to be hopeful about peace here. But today was chilling.
In this land, disputed for centuries, praying for peace, and praying for the changing of hearts and minds seems the only answer.
I miss you all at home! But what an experience with my companions on this pilgrimage. We are getting along well in this very nice hotel right on the Sea of Galilee. Great food, nice rooms and a wonderful location.
Sobering though, and an indication that we were no longer on the Western side of the Sea of Galilee, were the barb wired areas on either side of the road with red triangle warning signs indicating mine fields. These mines were left by the Syrians when the Israelis took the Golan Heights in 1967. The mines have never been cleared. Our map to Banias shows mine fields all around the area.
I noticed an off-duty Israeli soldier in civilian clothing with his gun slung over his back, as he and his friends made a sightseeing trip to Banias. This is not an uncommon sight.
As we continued to travel further in the area, we saw many Israeli tanks and soldiers, and stopped to notice the Israeli/Syrian border. At the outlook over the border we met four Israeli soldiers on a break. One young man who spoke English fairly well expressed his skepticism about the current peace talks with Syria. He was certain that the prime minister was trying to distract from his current domestic problems by reaching seeking peace.
Continuing, on either side of our bus we could see villages that were destroyed in the 1967 war as well as blown up and empty Syrian army outposts.
We also pass several new Israeli settlements.
I want so much to be hopeful about peace here. But today was chilling.
In this land, disputed for centuries, praying for peace, and praying for the changing of hearts and minds seems the only answer.
I miss you all at home! But what an experience with my companions on this pilgrimage. We are getting along well in this very nice hotel right on the Sea of Galilee. Great food, nice rooms and a wonderful location.
Some More Pictures
Here are some more pictures of the Reverend Revs visiting various sites and places in the Galilee region. Enjoy. Amariah
Monday, June 2, 2008
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)