We made our exit from Petra, and traveled north along the Jordanian side of the Jordan River, crossing over at the Hussein bridge, and arrived at the town of Tiberias 2 nights ago. The sea of Gallilee is the site of so many episodes in the Gospels that it is hard to narrow down our visits. We began with a renewal of our baptismal vows at the Yardenit baptismal site on the Jordan river. The site itself is now run by a kibbutz and has installed several 'secure' pilgrimage spots. This was the result of seeing overly enthusiastic pilgrims getting swept away by the currents in years past.
After Yardenit, we went for a cruise on the sea with a local boat, whose skipper showed us some of the techniques and equipment used in the time of Jesus and the disciples. In the afternoon we went to the mount of the beatitudes, the "church of Peter's Primacy" on the shore of the sea, and then to the ruins of the ancient town of Capherneum. Just south of the ruins is an ancient house believed to be the house of Peter, where the healing of his mother in law took place.
The shift from Egypt and Jordan to Israel is remarkable in many ways. The first thing people notice is the immense security structure upon arrival: customs and border crossings are extremely well controlled. Another major shift is that Israel is very much a first world country, for the first time in two weeks I told people that they can drink the tap water without fear of "Pharoah's revenge".
This morning we are taking everyone up to the top of Mount Tabor - the mount of transfiguration - and then if all goes according to plan, we will take them to Armegedon before heading in to stay with the Sisters of Nazareth for the night. The Sisters have had a long presence in Nazareth, and are know for their work among disabled children. After spending tonight in Nazareth, we will have a leisurely time at Caeserea Maritima. Caeserea is the site of the only known inscription mentioning Pilate, and besides, it has a great beach, which will be much appreciated after the desert and inland heat.
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