Israel 2023

 This Tuesday represented our first real touring day.  It was also a day where many of our folks are feeling the effects of jet lag.  Everyone did very well today despite feeling a little exhaustion.  It is a blessing traveling with this group. Our day began with an 8:00 am departure, following the path Peter would have taken from Joppa to Caesarea.  We discovered the difference between a theater and an amphitheater as Nir told us of concerts which have been presented at the 2nd Century theater of Caesarea.  We were wowed by the fresh water large pool that was a part of Herod’s sea-side palace.  A stone confirming Pontius Pilate’s existence as governor stood nearby Herod’s palace. We pictured Paul giving his defense before Festus, Felix and Agrippa below the platform at the hippodrome.  A short visit to the harbor area and we were on our way to Mt. Carmel.  Along the way we saw the aqueduct that brought water to the city of Caesarea. We recou...

    The last of the pilgrim have arrived and we have had our first meal together.  We praise the Lord for His goodness to us all.  Those who arrived early explored the Carmel Market near our hotel.  Some of us visited the newly opened Lego Store.  They only opened this store here in Tel Aviv about 7 months ago.  Several of us got grandchildren or nieces and nephews a gift there.  Some of the group got caught up on sleep which was wise.  The group is starting to get to know each other a little already.    We leave Tel Aviv tomorrow morning at 8:00 am sharp to head north.  Now is the time to read our books for tomorrow’s activities and then get some good sleep.  Here are a few pics from today.   John and Sandee working hard at the new Lego Store A Mediterranean Sunset Pam and Glenda at the new Lego store A War of Independence Memorial near the beach at  Tel Aviv Boardwalk near Jaffa with Tel Aviv in the background ...

 Twenty of our group arrived on Sunday without a hitch except for the Archers.  Having their original flight to Toronto cancelled, they ended up re-routed on Austrian Airlines and arrived on Sunday afternoon in time to catch a ride to the hotel with the Butler, Bruce, Pedlow part of the group.  Sovereign connections are great.    The rest of the team arrives today, two in the morning and the rest in the afternoon.  Today is a day of rest, sunshine, and adjustment.  Tomorrow, the fun begins!! Andrea, Sandee, Van and John on the beach at Tel Aviv A Mediterranean Sunset from Dan Hotel

  Welcome to our family and friends who are joining us on our journey.  This weekend we make our way to Tel Aviv in order to begin the trip of a lifetime, walking where Jesus walked.  The sights, the sounds, the unique people that we will meet, will all help the Bible come alive for us as we traverse the Fifth Gospel, the land of Israel. We are grateful you have joined us.  Starting next Monday, February 27th I will be posting pictures and a summary of our day’s activity for you to see.  We will be seven hours ahead of you so it will be available starting around 3:00 or 4:00 in the afternoon your time each day.   I know each person going with us is filled with excitement and anticipation.  Pray for us, that the Lord will open our eyes and hearts to all that He has prepared for us. Shalom!