Saturday, January 17, 2009

Church of the Nativity




We had an exciting morning crossing into Palestine to go Bethleham to see the Shepherd's Field and the Church of the Nativity. Our tour guide is Israeli so he couldn't go, but our driver is Palestinian so he could enter. We met another guide and had a great time. Lot's of merchants selling "must have" items on the sidewalks. It is amazing how items get cheaper as we start to board the bus. We are going to have to get more luggage to haul this stuff home.

Father Dan had a moving celebration of Mass in St. Jerome's Chapel in the basement of the Church of the Nativity. He talked about how the stable had room for all of the animals plus Mary, Joseph and Jesus and to remember that there is room for all of us. We could hardly move in the chapel, nice and cozy.

We also went to the Mount of Olives and walked the path that Jesus walked on his entrance to Jerusalem. For me it was such an honor to share that journey with so many new friends.

On a lighter note, I have learned to play two new card games: Haffsenpepper (bid euchre) and Bridge (maybe I haven't learned bridge quite yet, lousy cards but good card sense).

Tomorrow we spend the day within the Old City Walls.

9 comments:

  1. Hi mom and chuck and the rest of the gang. Glad to hear everyone is having a good time and all are well. Obviously we finally got our computer going again...for now. Very neat site, thankyou for sharing. We will continue to pray as well. Karen, Jim and gang

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  2. Wow! It sounds like you had a great day too! We had about 35 children receive their First Reconciliation this morning. I love to watch their faces after they have made their Reconciliation and are going back to their parents. They have the biggest smiles and their faces are just glowing. During the prayer and reflection part of the service, Fr. Steve spoke about you guys being in Israel. We said a prayer and blessing for all of you.

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  3. Hi Dad and Kas! Looks like you are having a great trip. Stay safe and have a good time!

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  4. Hi Mom & Chuck, been watching for your pictures and there they were! (although I think I saw the back of Mom's head in another)
    Thanks for the site, so neat to be able to follow along, and we second the request for a group picture taken by the guide.

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  5. Hello, Wonderful pictures! We are thankful for the details as to your daily events. More snow but not as cold today. Playoff games tonight. Will update you with the scores as we get them. Love Sue (Grove City)

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  6. The pictures are wonderful and we so look forward to your daily reports! What a joy you must feel being there. Know you are all in our prayers.
    It is beginning to warm up somewhat but there is still PLENTY of snow left. Enjoy the rest of your trip and come home ready to be pestered for all the details. Jane C. St.Marys

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  7. Hi Mom and Aunt MJ,
    Thinking of you everyday! Love the pictures. What a great blog! Thanks for helping us keep in touch. We had a 10 inch snowstorm today in New England!
    Love, Lynn & Alice

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  8. Hi gang,
    Father Steve mentioned that you are all praying for us here at home.
    We are doing the same for you.
    You are missed, but, we are also jealous that we didn't go along with you!!
    See everything you can take in.
    We love you all!!

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  9. Thanks so much for keeping us up-to-date on the happenings of your trip. What a wonderful time you all appear to be having. Can't believe that you are playing bridge in Israel! Steelers are going to the Superbowl. (so are the Cardinals)Two very intense games! We are very worked up in PA! Love to you all but especially Aunt MJ and Mom (Joannie) Sue, Mark and Max in Grove City

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