The Tabor Group, in front of the Treasury at Petra
On Thursday we walked into ancient Petra with its outstanding Nabatean and Roman ruins. We all had camel rides on the way out. Great animals!
Friday we crossed the Jordan River into Palestine. We crossed the checkpoint with no delay. We then got some great views of Jerusalem before settling into Bethlehem for the night. Yesterday (Saturday) we toured the shepherd’s field where we read the Christmas story and sang Christmas songs in a beautiful chapel. Zouby Zouby told us about his mediation work and hosted us for lunch. After a break, we heard from Alex Awad, of Bethlehem Bible College, give an overview of the history of Israel and Palestine. We also toured the Church of the Nativity, thought to be over the birthplace of Jesus.
Today was Sunday and the group headed to different churches for worship and had a free afternoon. Our favorite treat so far is “pop rock” chocolate. While browsing the shops, we’ve had opportunity to speak to local people about the conflict between Palestine and Israel in Gaza. Some are discouraged but others more hopeful that it can be resolved.
We have seen two different peaceful demonstrations concerning Gaza. This is on everyone’s mind and concern. We are watching to see if this will change our itinerary or not as we proceed. Tomorrow the plan is to head for the Mediterranean Sea–the city of Joppa, Caesarea–and then on to Nazareth for the night.
By the way, if anyone is reading this blog, your comments are very welcome!!
Patty instructs the group in front of the Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem
6 responses so far ↓
Gloria Swartzendruber // Jan 11th 2009 at 2:48 pm
What a beautiful picture in front of the Treausury at Petra. It must have been grand to see this building. We pray for you and the people there and that you come home with a deeper understanding of the conflict.
Gloria Swartzendruber
Perry Faul // Jan 12th 2009 at 7:49 am
Thank-you for the updates! It’s nice to catch a glimpse of what you are experiencing. We pray for you throughout each day.
Hi Ben! God bless! We believe this experience will have a lifetime of value that will draw you even closer to the Lord.
Perry and Grace Faul
Loretta Helmuth // Jan 12th 2009 at 8:19 am
Thanks for the blogs. It is good hearing about what you are experiencing. I am keeping your group in my prayers
Jim Elliott // Jan 12th 2009 at 5:46 pm
Enjoy following your experience through your blog. Praying that you will experience God in a fresh and new way as you walk today where Jesus walked.
God bless – Jim
Carl Reimer // Jan 13th 2009 at 6:00 pm
It is exciting to see pictures of where I was with Clarence Heibert when we toured the Holy Land 20 years ago. It is good to see that Myron and Lavonne Vetter have made the trip again. May
God bless your time there.
Aunt Gerry // Jan 15th 2009 at 11:43 am
Holly and Doug,
We really enjoy reading your blog and seeing the great pictures. Thanks for letting us “tag along”. We pray for your group and your safe return.
Love you, Aunt Gerry
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