Jerusalem, Saturday, May 28 - At approximately 9:02 a.m. Jerusalem time, (2 a.m. Hartford time) twenty-four pilgrims from Trinity landed safely at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, beginning a fourteen-day journey that will take them throughout Jerusalem, the Galilee and many other sacred or historic sites.
Departing from the Trinity parking lot at 10:30 a.m. Friday morning,our bus operator from Kelly Bus Lines braved Memorial Day weekend traffic to get us to Newark International Airport on time. The 9 hour 40 minute ride to Tel Aviv took us over the northeastern coast of Canada, over the United Kingdom, eastern Europe, the Mediterranean and into Tel Aviv.
At the airport, we wre met by our tour operator, Iyad Qumri, a Palestinian Christian, who gave a guided tour of our route about 30 miles to the east of the airport. Upon arrival at St. George's Guest House in East Jerusalem, Iyad gathered us for a brief orientation session. There we were advised about clothing protocols. especially when visiting holy sites. Following a lovely and healthy Mediterranean-style lunch (barbecued chicken, three different satisfying salads and roasted potatoes), we then set off for a quick tour of the neighborhood.
St. George's Guesthouse is situated in the Eastern section of Jerusalem, being that portion of Jerusalem that was in control of Jordan before the Six-Day War in 1967. Walking down Nablus Road to the Damascus Gate, we got a feel for the shopping districts in the Eastern section of the city. The temperature is in the lower 80s and sunny, so those who had forgotten the admonition to bring water bottles, hats and sun screen for daily trips were quickly reminded of their importance.
We are now back at the guest house for a chance to catch our breath after our 24-hour+ day before dinner at 7. The socialites in the group are arranging a social half-hour before dinner. Following Compline in the cathedral at 8 p.m., which will be led by Boo Morton, we will all turn in for a much-deserved and much-needed long night's rest.
As I close, Muslim prayers are sounding from the several minarettes in the area. It is a good reminder to us Christians to stop what we are doing and spend a quiet moment with God.
Don't forget to check us out on the Skype broadcast at Adult Forum tomorrow morning at 11:30 a.m. in the Trinity Library! Salaam, Shalom, Peace! Don+
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