As you can imagine, the day was a bit hectic, as we had certain deadlines to meet, like getting to the airport on time! Security was pretty tight, but as it was for our safety, we did not mind this.
We did have time to visit Magdala, which is on the Sea of Galilee. This is the town of Mary Magdalene, but the site, only unearthed in 2009, and which is still be excavated by archaeologists, is proving to be extremely important. A first century synagogue has been found, and, most likely, Jesus would have taught there. Also, a stone "stool" in the centre of the building, and probably used to rest the scriptures upon, contains the only known images of the Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 79 AD. The "Magdala Stone", as it is called, is so valuable, that the original is being studied in a secret location. We had to make do with a copy! Below are some pics.
Before I sign off for the final time, I would like to thank everyone for following this blog. I hope that you have been able in some way, to share in our pilgrimage. I am amazed that we already have over 2000 page views from across the world, and the numbers continue to grow! I would encourage anyone who is able, to make their own pilgrimage there. Without exception, everyone in our group was astounded at how much they learnt, and how their understanding of the Bible had dramatically improved.
If you are able to help the School of Joy in Bethlehem, that would make my keeping this blog even more valuable. You can find the justgiving page at https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/schoolofjoy This is a small thing that each of us can do to support the very few Christians left in the Holy Land. Having spent the last ten days there, I can honestly say, that I would be devastated if it just became a theme park. Please be generous.
Love
Rina
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