WARNING: these posts have not yet been proof-read. It’s difficult to find decently priced internet connections here. The actual posting time of these entries is April 22, in Jerusalem – in the Olive Tree hotel… with free WiFi!

2005.04.21

*Pilgrimage Day 12*

Day 12

Kibbutz Genazereth

We first went to Kibbutz Genazereth, which is actually the “port” we used to get on the boat that took us to the middle of the sea/lake (Galilee) yesterday.

The museum found here housed an ancient egyptian boat, circa the time of the Jesus’ ministry. There’s even speculation that it was the boat of the “calming of the storm,” which honestly is really far fetched if you asked me. I didn’t actually go to the showroom – spending 5 dollars to see a worn down boat without definite proof that it was the boat wasn’t quite as appealing as one would expect.

Church of Heptapegon, Cana, Church of the Annunciation and the Church of St. Joseph

The Church of Heptapegon (7 springs) is where the myth of the multiplication of the loaves was said to have been set. We then went to Cana, where Jesus’ first miracle took place (where he turned water to wine).

After that, we left Galilee and headed towards Nazareth… and ended up at The Church of the Annunciation. This is pretty much self-explanatory – the area where the Annunciation took place. To be noted here, is the Grotto in the church which I would assume is either where the single Miriam (Mary) used to live, or at least a tribute to it. The Church of St. Joseph on the other hand, was built atop what is believed to be the holy family’s house (after Mary and Joseph wed obviously)

Mt. Tabor

After a quick Shawarma take out lunch, we then headed out of Nazareth and up Mt. Tabor, where The Church of the Transifuguration is found. This is the myth wherein Jesus went up with some of his disciples and the latter suddenly saw Jesus with the prophets Moses and Elijah.

We had mass at the church – in Moses’ chamber, and we went back to our hotel to end the day.

Miscellaneous

Try to stock up on food if you can, though the Shawarma we had was good, in general, as I said: everything here is expensive.

A quarter pounder meal at McDonald’s cost 8 US dollars, and a Magnum ice cream bar (sort of like a Pinipig Crunch cost 2 (that’s a 100+ peso Pinipig Crunch!)

Also go to the bathroom before you leave. Almost all WCs (Wash Closet?) here are all pay-per-use (1 Sheqel).

That’s about it. Tomorrow we leave for the city of cities: Jerusalem (cue cinematic music).