We had a very busy day today exploring the Old City of Jerusalem and then Bethlehem. We started on the Mount of Olives, down to Gethsemane, and then through the Old Town. We stopped at the Western (or wailing) wall. We saw the tomb of Mary and the tomb of Jesus. It is so interesting to see Christians, Jews and Muslims all together especially in the Old Town.
After a rest break with fresh squeezed OJ and pomegranate juice, we drove to Bethlehem. Now I had not known this before, but Bethlehem is in Palestine. So we had to leave the Israel border. Of course it is well guarded just like the border crossing from Jordan. The residents of the Palestinian area of Bethlehem are not allowed in Jerusalem unless they have a special work permit, usually only granted to those over 45.
We had a typical Palestinian meal for lunch, then further into Bethlehem to see Jesus' birthplace. While we were viewing the spot of Jesus' birth and the manger we got to stay extra long as we got caught in the middle of Mass. It was a little crowded and of course Tom blurts out "the priest is here!"
It is now approaching the Sabbath so most of Jerusalem is shut down. We have special dinner reservations.
Tomorrow we have a half day tour of more Jerusalem spots then a quick transfer to the airport. Since only American and British planes fly on the Sabbath, we are hoping for short lines at check in and security!
After a rest break with fresh squeezed OJ and pomegranate juice, we drove to Bethlehem. Now I had not known this before, but Bethlehem is in Palestine. So we had to leave the Israel border. Of course it is well guarded just like the border crossing from Jordan. The residents of the Palestinian area of Bethlehem are not allowed in Jerusalem unless they have a special work permit, usually only granted to those over 45.
We had a typical Palestinian meal for lunch, then further into Bethlehem to see Jesus' birthplace. While we were viewing the spot of Jesus' birth and the manger we got to stay extra long as we got caught in the middle of Mass. It was a little crowded and of course Tom blurts out "the priest is here!"
It is now approaching the Sabbath so most of Jerusalem is shut down. We have special dinner reservations.
Tomorrow we have a half day tour of more Jerusalem spots then a quick transfer to the airport. Since only American and British planes fly on the Sabbath, we are hoping for short lines at check in and security!
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