Life

Back home.  I didn't want to leave Israel, but I'm glad to be home.  Today, in particular, I am aware of my blessings.  I have so many gifts, for which I am grateful.  My faith, family, and friends top the list.  In today's Gospel, Jesus calls the disciples, and I immediately was transported to the Church of St. Peter's Primacy, along the shore of the Sea of Galilee.  I can hear the waves lap the shore, and I can imagine how Jesus might have seen things.  Wow.

On this day of my birth, I am in awe of the gift of life.  What a blessing we are given, to do with as we will.  We can spend it any way we want.  I'd like to think that while I'm still learning and growing, I'm emphasizing God over self.  I pray that I can continue to hold on to this desire, long after the excitement of my pilgrimage fades, which I suppose it will at some point.

Thank you, God, for giving me life.  May I continue to honor You, first and foremost in my life.

Day 11

We have arrived home from our incredible journey.  We might be a little tired and bedraggled, but hopefully we return wiser than when we left.  I'm not saying that a person must leave the country to change, but I do believe that we must continue to journey, in our own way, in order to grow.  That mentality doesn't require any passport or visa.  

I still want to pinch myself to be sure that this hasn't all been a dream.  I was reading the meditation for today in connection with today's scriptures.  The Gospel talked about the man with the withered hand. The commentary referenced other times Jesus healed, including the man at the pool of Bethsaida!  We were there!!!  Craziness.

On the flight back, I was asked about my next destination.  I smiled to think about what might be next . . . The footsteps of JPII and St. Faustina or Lourdes or who knows!?  Maybe I will visit every place or one or none of them.  The point is that it is not the destination as much as the journey.  Life is to be lived, in whatever way God calls.

May we all have the strength and courage to live that call.  "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

Day 10

Day 10: Jan 20, Tel Aviv - USA
Transfer to airport for the flight home with memories to last a lifetime.

Today was a free day.  Because our flight doesn't leave until 11pm, we have until 5pm to explore, relax, or do whatever.  My desire was to revisit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.  Ate breakfast, and then 3 of us took a taxi to the Jaffa gate.  I headed to the church and they headed to the Dome of the Rock.

The scene was quiet and very peaceful.  Upon entering, I didn't see anyone.  I headed straight to the tomb.  At first I didn't see anyone there, so initially I was unsure if it was open.  As I came to the entrance, I saw two or three people inside the angel room.  I entered, and we moved into the inner room.  We had time to kneel and pray, without being rushed.  Pretty incredible.  I walked around the inside of the church to the stairs.  Once again, I "climbed" Calvary.  There were maybe 3 or 4 people praying.  I was able to go right to the hole where the Cross stood and pray there.  I found a corner spot and settled in to pray, meditate, and write.  Only downside:  the marble was pretty cold!

Day 9a

Day 9 continued:

We went to St. Peter in Gallicantu (which we didn't do Sunday).  This was an amazing experience as well.  We were in the courtyard and home of Caiaphas, where Jesus was condemned in the religious trial (he also had a civil trial).  In the country there is a statue that shows Peter denying Jesus.  Inside the church, you can look down into an old cistern.  At the time of Caiaphas, it was used to hold people for punishment.  This was a very deep hole, maybe 10x10 (I'm bad at estimating) and the only way in was through a small opening high above.  The condemned were lowered in from the top by a rope.  It is believed that in between the time Jesus was condemned by Caiaphas late Thursday night and Friday morning, he was kept in this space.  There was also a nearby area that had pinions in the wall, so as to tie someone up for the purpose of torture.  We cannot know for sure, but it seems very probable as Jesus was seen as an enemy of the Jewish rulers at the time, and would likely have been punished and tortured.  We listened to Psalm 88 while in the cistern.  Try reading it while imagining being in such a space, tortured, alone, and scared.

LORD, the God of my salvation, I call out by day; at night I cry aloud in your presence.    3 Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry.   4   *For my soul is filled with troubles;          my life draws near to Sheol.     5 I am reckoned with those who go down to the pit;  I am like a warrior without strength.     6 My couch is among the dead,  like the slain who lie in the grave.     You remember them no more; they are cut off from your influence.     7 You plunge me into the bottom of the pit,  into the darkness of the abyss.     8 Your wrath lies heavy upon me; all your waves crash over me.  Because of you my acquaintances shun me; you make me loathsome to them;  Caged in, I cannot escape;   10 my eyes grow dim from trouble.     All day I call on you, LORD;   I stretch out my hands to you.     11   *Do you work wonders for the dead? Do the shades arise and praise you? 12 Is your mercy proclaimed in the grave,  your faithfulness among those who have perished?* 13 Are your marvels declared in the darkness, your righteous deeds in the land of oblivion?    14 But I cry out to you, LORD; in the morning my prayer comes before you.     15 Why do you reject my soul, LORD, and hide your face from me?     16 I have been mortally afflicted since youth;  I have borne your terrors and I am made numb.    17 Your wrath has swept over me;    your terrors have destroyed me.  18 All day they surge round like a flood;  from every side they encircle me.     19 Because of you friend and neighbor shun me;  my only friend is darkness.

Day 9

Day 9: Jan 19,  Jerusalem: Via Dolorosa - Holy Sepulchre  
Theme: The Way of the Cross, The Crucifixion, The Resurrection
This morning we start the Via Dolorosa (The Way of the Cross) at the Antonia Fortress, where Jesus was condemned to death by Pontius Pilate. From there He was taken through the city to be crucified. The Stations of the Cross lead, through the markets of the Old City to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Here is the site of Calvary and the Tomb of Christ. Mass will be in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. After breakfast visit the Church of St Anne’s, the Pool of Bethesda and the Sisters of Zion. This afternoon there will be time to revisit the Old City. Dinner and Overnight.

Wow.

Wow.

Wow.

I could switch to Hebrew, if you want.  Sababa (awesome).  This has been an amazing pilgrimage, and I a) don't want to leave, b) I already want to come back, c) am overwhelmed with all of the experiences.  Thank you, thank you, thank you for your prayers on my journey.  

Today began early as we walked the Stations of the Cross before we celebrated Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre at 7AM.  We entered the Old City at the Damascus Gate (called that because it faces in the direction of Damascus in Syria).  We began at the Antonio Fortress where Jesus was condemned.  Stations 1-9 are noted on the sides of buildings, because some of the sites would be inside places that pilgrims can't access i.e. a Muslim school building.  It was impactful to be out in the dark and mostly quiet streets, praying the stations, singing, and meditating on the journey of Jesus.  Because of the tensions between the major denominations, the last stations can't be prayed in the church, so we did 9-14 at the 9th station before heading to the church.

Day 8a

Continued:

We visited the Western Wall - that was an interesting experience.  We were able to go up, men and women in different sections, to pray by the wall.  There were all kinds of people there, from ultra-conservative on.  We learned that the prayers that are left in or around the walls are picked up and burned twice a month.  The wall is the closest you can get to the Holy of Holies inside the original temple, but this wall is not part of the original temple.  It was added on by Herod the Great, in his attempt to outdo Kings David and Solomon.  We had to go through metal detectors to enter the area, but it was very easy.  

Next we ate another delicious lunch, at a restaurant that had an Italian feel.  Seemed a bit odd in the middle of Israel, but something new for us!  We then visited Mount Zion, where we saw the Last Supper Room.  It is also the room where Pentecost happened.  Christians can only celebrate 2 times a year in this place - Holy Thursday and Pentecost.  Underneath the area there is also a place claiming to house King David's tomb, but there is no archeological support to back that up.  

Day 8

Day 8: Jan 18, Jerusalem: Mt. Of Olives - Gethsemane - Mt. Zion - Western Wall 
Theme: Palm Sunday and the Agony in the Garden 
From the Mount of Olives take in the panoramic view of Jerusalem. Then to the Pater Noster shrine, where Jesus taught His disciples the Pater Noster — The Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:1-4). Walking down the Palm Sunday Road stop at the beautiful little church, Dominus Flevit - “The Lord wept.” It was here that Jesus wept over Jerusalem [Luke 19:41]. At Gethsemane reflect on Jesus’ final night. The Garden contains trees, the roots of which go back to the time of Jesus. Visit the Church of All Nations to pray at the “Rock of Agony,” a section of bedrock identified as the place where Jesus prayed alone in the garden on the night of His arrest. Visit the Western Wall, to see all that remains of the Temple compound that dates to the time of Jesus. From here we will continue to the house of the High Priest Caiaphas where He was interrogated and imprisoned. Now called Peter in Gallicantu (“crowing rooster”), this beautiful Church also commemorates Peter’s Denial of Christ, his repentance and then being forgiven by Jesus. After Mass we will go up to Mt. Zion to visit the Upper Room, which commemorates the Last Supper. Nearby is the Benedictine Church of the Dormition. Dinner and overnight at your hotel.

Pre Day 9

Bright and early . . . well, not bright, but it was definitely early!  

http://youtu.be/Gxe7MExZhAs

Reflections

I woke up early, and wanted to capture some thoughts.  This pilgrimage has been so touching and unreal.  At times I have felt as though I/we rush through some of sites, or that I should 'feel' more at a certain place, though some of the logistics can't be helped.  Yet, I can cry at a simple phrase during Mass, or become overwhelmed when I reflect on what I've seen and touched and where I've walked.  As one of our priests commented, we will never celebrate Christmas in quite the same way after having seen and touched the place Jesus was born.  I find this to be true of our celebration of the Mass, and it will be even more so after we visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Our lives are different.  Hopefully, improved because we are open to God.  There is a definite opportunity for softening to God, and it feels much more tangible here.  Probably, because, as my sister put it, my soul is more alive in such a holy place.  Our hearts are burning, as the verse from Luke says,

'Then they said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning [within us] while he spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to us?”'

Today and tomorrow we focus on the last week of Jesus, Holy Week as we know it.  I don't know if words can capture the anticipation I feel.  Such love.  So, my prayer of reflection is a favorite verse on God's love from Ephesians 3:17-19:

"Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him.  Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong.  And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is.  May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully.  Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God."

Sababa - awesome.

:-)

Day 7

Day 7: Jan 17, Bethany - Masada - Dead Sea
Theme: Early Years in Jerusalem & the Wilderness
This morning drive down the Jordan Valley to Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. Take the cable car to the top of Masada to learn about the heroic last stand of the Zealots. Afterwards there may be time for a dip in the Dead Sea for those who want to. Drive through the Judean Wilderness where Jesus spent 40 days fasting, and it is in this area that John the Baptist lived and baptized Christ. Then to Bethany where He raised Lazarus from the dead. Celebrate Mass here before returning to the hotel. Dinner and overnight.

Bus ride to Masada.  On the way we saw the Dead Sea, which we visited later.  Masada is another area that exists thanks to Herod the Great (aka 'Bob the Builder' according to our guide).  It was a fortress that Herod built as a potential refuge, although there isn't any proof that he stayed there. Quite a feat of engineering, especially since Herod liked his comforts.  There were enough supplies to last 2years. After Herod died, it was abandoned until zealots went there to avoid the Romans (much more history to it, of course).  Roman soldiers surrounded the fortress and were finally able to breach it.  All inside were dead, except two women and some children who were hidden in a cistern, because the zealots chose death over slavery.  There is a movie about this which was recommended by our guide.  And we had to ride a cable car to get to the fortress.  There was an extensive path up the mountain, which people could hike up.  Very extensive palace and fortress.   Believe the area is a national park.

Pre Day 8

Greetings!

http://youtu.be/FdGzruUJhD4

Pre day 7

Good morning!

http://youtu.be/7H9_h_YEdKs

pre Day 6

Good morning!!  And this pilgrimage is sababa - awesome!

http://youtu.be/Q4FrzYu7CpI

Here's a group picture :-)

Pilgrimage Prayers

For all of those who have requested prayers (and even those who maybe didn't request, but I am including you in my prayers), please know that I lift up your intentions at every Mass and in the other churches we visit.  So far, we have celebrated Mass in Nazareth, at the Church of the Anunciation, in Tiberius, at the Church of St. Peter's Primacy, and today on Mount Tabor, at the site of the Transfiguration.  

Again, my intercession is nothing special, but I believe that as you journey with me on this pilgrimage, God will bless you.  Your prayers will be answered, just maybe not immediately or in the way you anticipate.  Trust and have faith.  

Pre Day 5

Good morning!

http://youtu.be/JVRO0dnnXZE

Day 6

Day 6: Jan 16, Jerusalem: Temple Model - Ein Karem - Bethlehem
Theme: The Visitation and Nativity
Begin the day with a visit to the Second Temple scale model for an overview of Jerusalem as it was at the time of Jesus. A short drive takes us to the village of Ein Karem, birthplace of John the Baptist, to visit the church that commemorates his memory. Pray the Mystery of the Rosary on the walk up the hill to the Church of the Visitation. In the afternoon visit Bethlehem to see the cave at the Shepherds’ Field. The caves have soot marks of the fires that shepherd’s lit to keep warm while watching over their flocks. In the afternoon we will depart to Bethlehem, beginning at Manger Square, which stands in front of one of the oldest of Christian churches, the Church of the Nativity. Enter the Church and down to the Grotto of the Nativity which marks the spot of Jesus’ birth. Beneath the Altar, there is a silver star with the Latin inscription: HIC DE VIRGINE MARIA JESUS CHRISTUS NATUS (Here Jesus Christ was born to the Virgin Mary.) After Mass we will return to the hotel in Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight.

We started our day driving to the church commemorating the birthplace of St. John the Baptist.  We prayed the decade of the rosary for the Visitation as we drove there.  Very beautiful church.  It has a definite Spanish influence in the decorations.  Throughout the courtyard we could read mosaics of the Canticle of Zechariah (see Luke 1:68-79) in many, many languages, so we prayed that together as a group. Very powerful.  

Next, we walked to the Church of the Anunciation.  Located up on the side of a hill, there were quite a few steps to take  We saw the chapel under the church, and then went up to the main church.  Beautiful paintings, so colorful  In the courtyard, there were mosaics in every language of the Canticle of Mary (see Luke 1:46-55).  Again, I had the opportunity to light a candle for all of the prayer intentions.  

Israeli Museum - wow.  Such an interesting place.  There was infinitely more to see, but our focus was on only two aspects of the museum.  First was the model of Jerusalem.  It is a giant replica, built to scale of the Old City.  Amazing to see and study.  Second was the exhibit on the Dead Sea Scrolls.  This was also in preparation for our visit to the area where the scrolls were discovered, which we will do tomorrow.  Such a fascinating, complex history story on both.  

Shepherd's Field - exciting to see.  This was the site of the Angel's appearing to the Shepherds.  Some of the mosaics in the cave date back to the 1st century.  It was also a great example of what the nativty site would have looked like in Jesus' day.  The roof was sooty, from fires that had been lit.  Nearby were ruins from an old monastery.  I lit another candle here as well.

Another delicious lunch and then on to Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity.  It is undergoing renovations currently, so there was a lot of scaffolding and construction happening.  We briefly visited the Church of St. Catherine, which houses the figure of Baby Jesus which is placed on the exact spot of the Nativity at Christmas.  It is also the church where the official Christmas Mass is celebrated.  Mass was celebrated in the chapel of St. Jerome, which is located underneath the Church of the Nativity.  Very small space, but impactful.  St. Jerome lived in that room while he was translating the Bible.   Mass was phenomenal.  Celebrating in that space, in proximity to the actual place where Jesus was born - wow!  I got to help lead the psalm, which was amazing.  We sang Christmas hymns, and our voices echoed and resounded all over.  I got choked up when we sang, 'O Little Town of Bethlehem" while in Bethlehem.  Mind-blowing.

The spot of the Nativity was beyond words.  We had a long line, although I would venture to guess that it was much shorter than usual.  Slowly, we descended several steps into the cave area.  As soon as you reach the bottom, you can see a space with a silver star that marks the place of Jesus' birth.  You have to kneel down and lean in to touch or venerate the spot.  Beautiful.

Back to the hotel, for more excellent food, and now it's definitely time for bed!

                                

Day 5

Day 5: Jan 15,  Jordan River - Mt. Tabor – Jericho – Jordan River - Jerusalem
Theme: The Transfiguration
Today, after breakfast, drive to Mount Tabor, the site of the Transfiguration, with time to reflect on Christ’s Humanity and Divinity. Mass here will be a good preparation for the journey to Jerusalem where Jesus was to suffer the crucifixion and resurrection. Drive down the Jordan Valley to Jericho, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, where we view Mt Temptation and an example of a Sycamore Tree. Visit the Baptismal site on the Jordan River then to Jerusalem, where we check-in to the hotel for dinner and overnight.

We left Galilee today.  Bittersweet.  It's a rainy day today, so the view was a bit obstructed, but still amazing.  On our way south, we went to Mount Tabor, the location of the Transfiguration.  Our bus took us partway up the mountain, and then we had to get into vans to navigate the hairpin curves.  Breathtaking views.  It was raining pretty steady, but that did not dampen our spirits one bit (or at least I didn't mind - I was excited to be there!).  One thing that our guide has pointed out to us repeatedly is that we have not had to battle crowds or wait for long periods of time.  Partly due to the time of year, but more so because potential pilgrims are fearful to come.  Usuma said tour numbers are low right now.  It's sad that people are missing out on this experience, but it is a blessing for us because it has been very convenient to get in and out of places.  

Back to Mt. Tabor - such a beautiful church.  Again, because of lack of crowds, we got to celebrate Mass in the main chapel.  We were in the lower part of the church, under a dome coveredi n lovely mosaics.  Our entire group could fit in the space, so when we sang, our voices resounded.  We sounded pretty darn good!  I especially enjoyed the refrain, "Glory, Glory, Hallelujah!  Glory, Glory, Hallelujah!  Glory, Glory, Hallelujah!  His truth is marching on."  We also had an amazing view of the area known as Armageddon Valley - see Revelation 16:16.  

Next is the bus ride south.  We gnerally followed the Jordan River south, although we are not right alongside it.  This also means we can see into the country of Jordan, which is identified by a barbed wire fence.  There aren't any curent hostilities, and no overly ative military presence here.  As we passed into the West Bank (not sure if it was Area A, B, or C), we went through a checkpoint.  We were not stopped.  Our guide explained that this is more for the purposes of limiting Christians or non-Jews from entering Israel.  Confusing politics.  At one time, tour guides who were native, non-Jews were not allowed to enter into areas with their pilgrims.  Government controls.  It is safe and easy for pilgrims and tourists to navigate, more so than for some of the native people.  

We arrived at the Jordan River, at the location where Jesus was baptized.  So cool!  Lots of politics involving this site as well, naturally.  The water was very murky and brown from silt and irrigation practices, but still!  Wow!  We all blessed ourselves and renewed our baptismal vows.  Pretty powerful stuff.  

On to Jericho - not as big as I would have expected.  Also, things aren't as far apart as I somehow thought they were.  I guess the map distance was deceiving.  At Jericho we saw the Mount of Temptation where Jesus was tempted 3 times while he spent 40 days in the desert.  They call it Judean wilderness, and boy, is it ever.  Crazy terrain, with lots of rocks and hills and not much else in between.  Lots of natural caves, too.  We at lunch at a lovely restaurant - the only Christian restaurant in the city.  It was outdoors, but they have been experiencing cooler weather than usual, so it was slightly chilly.  Would love to experience it on a warmer day as well.  Yes, I did make a reference to returning.  Might just be a pipe dream, but our tour guide said there was a saying, "Next year in Jerusalem."  Sounds great to me!  Jericho has a very small Christian population.  we drove past a sycamore tree, similar to the one that Zaccheus (sp?) climbed to see Jesus.  The tree we saw couldn't have existed 2000 years ago, but it was still impressive to see the tree in the location that the bible story happened.  Another side note - the food is amazing.  I am a big fan of Middle Eastern food, if what I have been enjoying is the regular fare.  Absolutely delicious!  Getting to try many new dishes.

Then we headed up to Jerusalem.  Even if Jerusalem is, geographically speaking, in the southern part of Isreal, they talk about going up to the city because it is at a higher elevation.  Makes sense why Jesus was going 'up' to Jerusalem :-)  We drove through a little bit of Jerusalem - traffic is very busy.  Saw the walls of the old city, and then did a quick drive over to Bethlehem.  (seriously - it's not that far away, if you don't account slow traffic)  Craziness.  We stopped at a Christian store to peruse their offerings.  Lots of beautiful olive wood pieces, among other items.  The most important part is that the shop supports many local Christian families in the area who either work for or sell to this shop.  Christians in Bethlehem have a tough time.  I'm very pleased with my purchases, and would be happy to show them off when I get home!

Then, it was back to Jerusalem through crazy traffic again.  We got to our hotel, which is gorgeous and huge.  Our accomodations are almost luxurious.  Another wonderful meal with even more new foods to try.  I think I've eaten red and yellow peppers at every meal since we've arrived (yes, even breakfast).  I don't know when this will all sink in; it almost feels like a dream.  What an amazing experience.  I pray that I can learn from it, and 'go deep' in my faith as JPII said, according to our guide.  Thanks for reading!

Day 4b

Mount of Beatitudes - absolutely breathtaking.  I cannot capture the experience of being there, but I will try :-)  We drove up, arriving at a beautiful scene, complete with a breathtaking view of the Sea of Galilee.  Walking over to the church, we learned that the location really wasn't so authentic, because the church wasn't built on any ruins.  The area was selected, in part, because of the view and it's proximity to what is believed to be the actual site of the Sermon.  

I had ulterior motives for my desire to see the site.  In reading the book by Fr. James Martin, "Jesus:  A Pilgrimage", I loved the description he shared about his time on the Mount.  He spoke of a peaceful experience, which lent itself to prayer and contemplataion.  I wholeheartedly concur.  Although our time there was extremely short, it was every bit as lovely as I anticipated.  I took a few brief videos, attempting to capture the songbirds, and lots of pictures, which won't do the site justice.  Best of all, I have the memories, and now the opportunity to unpack the experience.  

After our group arrived, our guide led us to the church, and we listened to the reading Matthew 5:1-12.  So powerful to hear the reading when we are at a site dedicated to the beatitudes, while in Galilee where Jesus spent time in ministry.  

Video:  http://youtu.be/ekzasngbC1M

Pre day 4

Good morning!

http://youtu.be/QfwZtVR4fTU

Pre Day 3

Good morning! 

http://youtu.be/2GHbwL6y4Nw.

The journey begins!

Prayer - part 2

Read Prayer - part 1 here.  I've been prayerfully pondering this post for quite some time, and I didn't quite know how to finish out this particular topic.  I think I've experienced my answer.  The past two weeks have wreaked havoc on my sense of normalcy and control.  I don't believe that I control my universe, but I do have a certain level of expectation on how things will proceed in an average day.  That was not the case in the recent past.  This was exacerbated by the excitement and stress of my upcoming pilgrimage.  So, not only was I not experiencing my healthy self with normal stress/routine, I was upping the ante with illness and chaos.  Again, what I have experienced is not catastrophic by any stretch of the imagination, but I think the lessons learned can apply to many situations.  During this time, those who knew I was sick offered prayers.  The people closest to me offered lots of prayers and sacrifices.  It was a bit overwhelming.  When I started the post on prayer, I was on the giving end of prayer.  Now, as I finish part 2, I'm on the receiving end of prayer.  It's a unique place to be.  Similar to the situation of the pray-er, now as the 'pray-ee', I am finding a variety of responses to this situation.  I've also noticed that my response can vary depending on the closeness of my relationship to the person offering prayers.  Personally, I have generally responded in 3 ways:  surprise, defensiveness, gratitude

Prayer - part 1

A recent conversation with a friend centered around a request for prayers.  It is sometimes disconcerting to be asked to pray.  I find that I generally have one of three responses:  1 - Overwhelemd/honored.  It is a little intimidating to have someone request your prayers for a situation.  2 - Disbelief.  If they really knew me, they wouldn't ask me to pray.  What could I possibly accomplish?  3 - Initial enthusiasm/agreement, and then forgetting their request.  I would compare this to the way we may respond to to the generic inquiry of 'How are you?' and our subsequent 'Fine.'  Our polite niceties usually fail to actually connect to the other person, which can be the case when we are approached to pray for something.  We agree, because that is the expected response, but do we go any deeper?  Do we actually follow through?

As I have journeyed in my faith life, I still experience all three of these thought processes.  As I'm preparing for my trip to the Holy Land, I have experienced the feeling of a great gift when someone asks me to pray for them or their intention.  This doesn't come from a sense of superiority, but rather a realization that because of our unity and communion through Jesus Christ, we are all connected.  As it states in Romans 12:4-5, "For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another."  The prayers of all members become my prayer, and vice versa.

Have patience, my child

4 days and they are crawling and flying by.  I've already had one bad dream - it was supposedly the day before my flight and I realized I didn't have everything purchased that I needed for the trip.  Then, in the magical timeframe of dreams, I was back on the farm and my entire family starts showing up.  A farewell party, perhaps?  I woke up the next morning sure that I had missed my flight.  Normal stuff, right?  :-)  

The thing that is the most challenging for me, right now, is my voice.  Well, lack thereof, actually.  You see, after a day of work, and various errands and appointments and last-minute details, I get home and want to call friends and family to share my excitement/stress/whatever.  Yet, as I'm continuing to recover, I just don't have the energy available to talk.  And as frustrating as it can be, it's an amazing opportunity as well.  I feel God is prodding me, reminding me to seek Him.  I may want to completely ignore the to-do list I have, yet I cannot ignore God's promptings.  

My lack of voice allows me the opportunity to go inward and connect to God.  There wil be so much to see and do in the next two weeks, but the most important action will be an internal one.  I requested a blessing for my travels from our chaplain today, and part of his prayer over me was the request that my heart would be open to God's message.  And so, although things are not going according to 'my' plan . . . again . . . God's way is more than enough.  '"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares The Lord.' ~Isaiah 55:8

Here's to the goal of patience - which is a lifelong adventure :-)

Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord

First reading - Isaiah - celebrating the glory of the Lord
Psalm 72 - Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
Epistle - Ephesians - we are all graced people
Gospel - Matthew 2 - visit from the magi

I heard an excellent story, which I will share here.  I have not discovered the source, but it is certainly worth hearing.  On the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, we hear about King Herod's jealousy when the magi arrive in search of the newborn King.  The first reading and psalm highlight the goodness of the King, which stands in contrast to Herod's behavior.  Rather than behave in a kingly fashion, which would, as a representative of God, mean serving the people and acting justly for all, Herod is consumed with his own importance.  This behavior is the backdrop for the story.

3 men of different religions were discussing which religion was the one, true faith.  The discussion became heated and they almost came to blows.  They decided to seek the counsel of a wise man in the area.  The spiritual guru told the men that the answer would lie with a flour mill on the other side of the great mountain.  The guru said they could climb the mountain and go over the peak to reach the mill.  It would be a very difficult journey, but it could be done.  Then the guru said there was a path around the left side of the mountain which would take them to the mill.  He said the path was rocky and full of obstacles, and would not be an easy journey, but it could be done.  Finally, the guru said that there was a road around the right side of the mountain to the mill.  The road was smooth and clear, and the journey would be easy.  "But," said the guru, "when you get to the mill, the man there will not inquire as to how you reached the mill.  Instead, he will ask about the quality of your wheat."

There are many paths to God.  Some will be significantly easier than others.  Ponder your path.  Are you attempting to climb over the mountain, through rocks and brambles, or along a smooth road?  Do not spend all of your energy struggling on the path.  Ultimately, we are all called to God, and will be judged by "our wheat".

Proverbs 16:3

This verse applies to many life events, both happy and sad. Perhaps it signifies a new beginning, such as a graduation or promotion. Or, it may provide comfort during a time of uncertainty, like the loss of a job or starting a new chapter in life. Either way, the verse highlights trust. Trust God during the good and the bad.

It's hard, though, to trust. For me, during the good times, I sometimes forget that God got me to that particular place. It's easy to focus on myself, thinking that it was 'my' abilities, strengths, or any other number of attributes that made something happen. No - that's not the case. At the very least, any talents that I think I have came from God. In a world of independence it is acceptable, and usually expected, to praise a person for his/her achievements. I'm not against compliments or admiration, but I want to get to a place in life where the first announcement of my supposed success highlights God. That accomplishes two things: 1) If I am putting God first, then my goals will align with God's, rather than my own, and 2) I remember that I am not God. Don't laugh - I'm very aware that I am not God, except when I'm not. For example, when I get caught up in my agenda or plans, without consulting God, I have created or become my own version of God. It happens a lot more than most of us want to admit. Think about it; how easy is it to promote our agenda, rather than fully experiencing God's?

Day 4a

Day 4: Jan 14, Tiberias: Sea of Galilee 
Theme: The Ministry of Christ in the Galilee
After breakfast we start with a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. After this, see the remains of a boat that dates back to the time of Jesus, found buried in mud. Continue to the Mount of Beatitudes, scene of Jesus’ great Sermon on the Mount. Nearby is Tabgha, where Jesus fed the crowd of 5,000 and onto the site known as “Peter’s Primacy”. Here, after His resurrection, Jesus met with His disciples and told Peter to “feed my lambs; feed my sheep.” [John 21:9]. A short drive away is Capernaum, from where Jesus launched his Ministry; see the synagogue which dates to the time of Jesus and the church built over the site of Peter’s home. In the late afternoon visit Cana, where Jesus performed His first miracle at the request of His mother [John 2:1-11]. Here visit the Franciscan chapel where those who wish to may renew their wedding vows. Dinner and overnight at your hotel.

It was windy on the Sea of Galilee, so our boat ride moved to later in the day.  We started with a delicious and plentiful breakfast and then I ran down for a quick glimpse of the Sea of Galilee. (How cool that I can say that!!!). Next, we drove to Cana.  The couples in our group were able to renew their wedding vows in the Divine Mercy Chapel off of the Catholic Church of Cana. Then we toured under the church and saw ruins that have been dated to Jesus time.  

Church of the Mount of Beatitudes - AMAZING!!!  So peaceful and beautiful.  More on this later, plus hopefully a small video of the beauty (and birds, too!).

Church of Peter's Primacy - where we celebrated Mass, right on the edge of the water.  To think, we were hearing sounds that Jesus heard, the waves against the shore.  So awesome.  We used the outdoor chapel, so it felt very connected to the area, especially the Sea of Galilee :-)  There is a rock there that is said to be where Jesus made breakfast for the disciples after His Resurrection.  We had time to collect shells on the shore, and just enjoy the view!

Because of the theme and where we just celebrated Mass, lunch was at a local Lebanese restaurant where we could eat St. Peter's fish.  We could order a fillet, the entire fish (head, bones, and all), or a non-fish item.  I wasn't interested in food with eyes on my plate, so I chose the fillet.  But I did get a picture from one of the group who did!  

Tabgha - feeeding of the 5000.  This was a lovely church with another stone that was said to have been where Jesus fed the 5000.  The famous mosaic on the floor depicts 2 fish and 4 loaves.  There is a lot of debate and/or theories about why the mosaic is one loaf short.  A few that our guide shared with us - the 5th loaf is Jesus Christ.  Or it was a miscalculation in measurements.  Or it looks the same from on top whether there are 4 or 5 loaves.  Who knows?  Regardless, it was lovely.  I was able to light a candle for all of the payer intentions I have been carrying.  

Capernuam - we saw lots of ruins, and the area that had the room where Jesus lived in Peter's house.  There is a interestingly shaped church built over the site, with a portion of the floor made of glass over Jesus' room.  I can't remember all of the details as to the proof or evidence of the area, but it was unreal to see something so old.  We also saw the ruins of a synagogue - not the one Jesus would have attended, specifically, but it was helpful to learn about the customs and how it related to Jesus' time.  

Corsi - as we drove to our boat ride, we passed the area known as Corsi, which is where Jesus called the demon(s) out of the man and sent it/them into a herd of pigs.  

Sea of Galilee - this was something whcih I had been anticipating for a very long time.  I was so excited to get on the boat and ride out into the Sea.  To think I was emulating something that Jesus would have done many times!  It was so peaceful and lovely.  

Finally, we visited the museum that housed a 2000 year-old boat.  It is unknown as to the origin or use of the boat, but it could have been a fishing boat from Jesus' time.  No one is entirely sure.  The evidence suggests that is a possibility.  Either way, it reminded me of the stairs in Rome that Jesus was reputed to have walked.  The point isn't in the authentic history of the item, but in the opportunity to experience something that deepens one's faith.  

Now, we are back to the hotel and will be partaking in another delicious meal.  Tomorrow we leave the area of Galilee and make our way to Jerusalem!  I am very sad to go; I find this area to be so peaceful and soothing.  There is a real spark of awareness when I stop to consider I am seeing places that I have heard about my entire life.  It's a bit surreal to have them come to life.  

One (big) caveat.  I am not advising the authenticity or lack thereof of the sites.  I have no need to do so for my purposes or beliefs.  Our excellent guide shared so many details and history and knowledge that I cannot do justice to all that he said.  So, my apologies for any mistakes or errors.  I would also refer you to the excellent resource, "Jesus:  A Pilgrimage" by Fr. James Martin or "The Holy Land:  An Archeological Guide" by Jerome Murphy-O'Connor.  They can more aptly cover the details I've missed.  

Day 3

Day 3: Jan 13,  Caesarea - Stella Maris - Nazareth - Tiberias
Theme: The Annunciation 
This morning after breakfast leave for Caesarea, which was once the ancient capital of the Roman province. Here you view the impressive archaeological remains of the Roman and Byzantine city that once dominated the region. It was at Caesarea that Peter came to understand that the Good News was not for Jews only, but for the whole world. Here he baptized the Roman Centurion, Cornelius, and his family. It was from Caesarea that Paul set sail for Rome, an event that eventually brought Christianity to the World. Continue north to Haifa to visit Stella Maris, a Carmelite Monastery dedicated to Our Lady of Mt Carmel and located over the cave where Elijah lived. After enjoying the view of the bay of Acco, drive to Nazareth, the site of Mary’s home and the town where Jesus lived as a child. At Nazareth visit the Byzantine Church of St. Joseph and Mary’s Well. Continue to Tiberias to check – in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight.

Caesara - lots of history there.  King Herod the Great was a very busy man.  It was interesting to see the ruins and know that some of them pre-dated Jesus' time on earth.  

Stella Maris - very moving experience. Saw the cave from the prophet Elijah. The altar is built over the cave.  Strange to be in a space that was occupied by a great prophet from the Old Testament.  The Carmelite Order is also the origin of the Scapular. 

Nazareth - such an interesting city.  Had a delicious lunch with tasty vegetables and fruits, plus a flavorful beef with rice and veggies.  Walked to a Greek Orthodox Church, Church of Mary's Well, which is reputed to be the well where Mary would have drawn water for her family in Nazareth.  We were able to get Holy Water from the site.  Then we went to the Church of the Anunciation, which is built upon the original village of Nazareth, and specifically commemorating Gabriel's anunciation to Mary.  Excavation under the church has revealed rooms and ruins that are reputed to be where the Holy Family lived.  There was also a room that was uncovered with carpentry tools, which are believed to be Joseph's.  A church to St. Joseph was built over that area.  We celebrated our first Mass as a group in the upper level of the Church of the Anunciation.  It was absolutely wonderful!  Such a beautiful space and a meaningful celebration of the Mass.

We drove through Cana to Tiberias, but it was too dark to see much.  The Sea of Galilee is nearby, can't wait to see it.  Beautiful hotel again, the accomodations are incredible.  So many blessings.

Day 2

Day 2: Jan 12, Arrive Tel Aviv
Arrival in Tel Aviv, you will be met by the 206 Tours representative and transfer to your hotel in the Tel Aviv area. Dinner will be served at the hotel.
 

I'm not really sure when day 1 ended and day 2 began.  It's one of those blurring of lines thanks to time zones, 'sleeping' on a plane, and irregular schedules.  I'm writing this, when I should be sleeping, but that just wasn't in the cards.  I can't even blame excitement for keeping me awake (although it's certainly going to have to keep me awake the rest of today!).  About two hours after officially attempting sleep, I heard chanting.  In Hebrew (I assumed, as I am not versed in the language).  So, a new experience - witnessing the prayer of a group of men that I presume to be rabbis.  I had absolutely no idea what they were saying, but it sounded pretty official.  And their garb was a pretty good indication of their role.  Guess I can check that one off the bucket list :-)  Yay for being a light sleeper (tongue-in-cheek).  

On a better note, I had a wonderful seatmate, and we conversed on almost every topic possible, and a few we might have made up.  It was a good combination of humor, philosphy, and cynicism.  And, in case he reads this, I think he was God's messenger.  Sometimes it just takes the perspective of someone without any bias to get to the heart of the matter.  So, thank you.  For making me laugh, and for being a conduit of God's message.  I guess it just goes to show that you never know how or when God can use you.  

We hit a few times of turbulence, which I was attempting to sleep, We had earlier joked about Jesus being on the plane, because there was a man who fit the typical appearance of Jesus.  My seatmate thought our flight should be smooth because God wouldn't strike down a plane with Jesus on board.  I suggested that we could experience a raging storm, and Jesus would likely sleep through it, just like in the boat on the Sea of Galilee.  So, any time we had some bumps, I would smile and think, "It's okay, Jesus is on board."  How true it is.   

Day 1

Day 1: Jan 11, Depart 
Board your flight for the start of your journey to Tel Aviv.  

The journey begins (or continues,  as it were).  A lesson in patience as well as anticipation.  Today is the baptism of the Lord.  The Scriptures take on a new depth.  Please continue to pray for safe travels and peace among all peoples. 

My first night away from home was delightful,  complete with complimentary toiletries, welcoming hosts and a ride to the airport.  I've been told I packed too light, so we'll see how things pan out. 

A New Year

I survived the day!  It may not sound like much, but after being home sick for so many days, I feel like I've been given a second chance at life.  Okay, yes, a bit dramatic, perhaps, but I couldn't resist.  I mean, I didn't even have to take a nap to get through the day!  Coincidentally, we just began a new year, and for so many people, this day becomes an opportunity for a second chance.  The chance to change, grow, improve or any other verb you want to use.  Some see it as a catalyst, the push needed to define a change, goal, or resolution.  I used to be big on resolutions, and they can be wonderful tools.  However, I don't want to limit my opportunities for growth to once a year, nor do I want the pressure (real or imagined) of sticking with something for the wrong reasons.  So, if you made a resolution (or 2 or 10), I applaud you for taking steps to change your life.  If you need accountability, I'm ready to help.  I've discovered that my attempts at change work better when I have a support network and like-minded people joining me on the journey.  It's part of why I blog (which seems like it should be it's own blog post . . . someday).