For many Christians the opportunity to spend time visiting the land where Jesus lived, taught, and died is a once in a lifetime experience. Most want to see as much of this countryside as possible and visit the places where He is thought to have been. It may be impossible to see everything in one visit, but there are some places that should be on the short list for Holy Land vacations.
One of the most popular things to do while in Israel is to walk the path Jesus took to the cross. This is called the Via Dolorosa, and it is an experience not to be missed. Beginning in the Muslim Quarter, pedestrians have a chance to stop at the fourteen stations of the cross along the way. They are easy to miss however, and it is advisable to either take a guided tour or join the Friday procession.
The walk ends at the Old City and the Church of the Sepulchre. This is the spot known as Golgotha or Calvary, where Jesus was crucified. Many believers feel that Jesus' tomb is located beneath the ancient church, which has been the final destination for pilgrimages as far back as the fourth century. The church welcomes visitors to browse respectfully.
One alternative burial site is the Garden Tomb. This shrine has become an increasingly popular spot for Protestants to come and spend time in contemplation and prayer. The tomb was only discovered in 1867 and now welcomes visitors to explore its double chamber.
The Sea of Galilee is where Jesus performed a number of miracles and gathered local fishermen to become His disciples. The Sea of Galilee is not actually a sea at all. It is the largest freshwater lake in Israel. For those interested, there are boat rides available that take guests on tours in vessels similar to the ones used in the time of Jesus.
Bethlehem is in disputed territory, so visitors have to take that into consideration when deciding whether or not to include it in their vacation planning. Most take the risk to see the place where Jesus is believed to have been born. Visitors to Bethlehem can stand in Shepherd's Field where the angels announced the birth of Christ.
Nazareth, which is located near Mount Tabor, and the town where Jesus grew up, should also be on the list of places to see while in Israel. Tourists can visit Mary's Well where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and informed her she would give birth to the Christ child. The original Church of the Annunciation, which was built to mark the significance of this event, was destroyed, but a new one was built in the late 1950s.
Israel is a place that is steeped in history. Visiting here is special for Christians who want to learn more about the life Jesus led. It's a moving experience for most and one they never forget.
One of the most popular things to do while in Israel is to walk the path Jesus took to the cross. This is called the Via Dolorosa, and it is an experience not to be missed. Beginning in the Muslim Quarter, pedestrians have a chance to stop at the fourteen stations of the cross along the way. They are easy to miss however, and it is advisable to either take a guided tour or join the Friday procession.
The walk ends at the Old City and the Church of the Sepulchre. This is the spot known as Golgotha or Calvary, where Jesus was crucified. Many believers feel that Jesus' tomb is located beneath the ancient church, which has been the final destination for pilgrimages as far back as the fourth century. The church welcomes visitors to browse respectfully.
One alternative burial site is the Garden Tomb. This shrine has become an increasingly popular spot for Protestants to come and spend time in contemplation and prayer. The tomb was only discovered in 1867 and now welcomes visitors to explore its double chamber.
The Sea of Galilee is where Jesus performed a number of miracles and gathered local fishermen to become His disciples. The Sea of Galilee is not actually a sea at all. It is the largest freshwater lake in Israel. For those interested, there are boat rides available that take guests on tours in vessels similar to the ones used in the time of Jesus.
Bethlehem is in disputed territory, so visitors have to take that into consideration when deciding whether or not to include it in their vacation planning. Most take the risk to see the place where Jesus is believed to have been born. Visitors to Bethlehem can stand in Shepherd's Field where the angels announced the birth of Christ.
Nazareth, which is located near Mount Tabor, and the town where Jesus grew up, should also be on the list of places to see while in Israel. Tourists can visit Mary's Well where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and informed her she would give birth to the Christ child. The original Church of the Annunciation, which was built to mark the significance of this event, was destroyed, but a new one was built in the late 1950s.
Israel is a place that is steeped in history. Visiting here is special for Christians who want to learn more about the life Jesus led. It's a moving experience for most and one they never forget.
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