samedi 29 juillet 2017

Places Not To Be Missed On Holy Land Vacations

By Gary Edwards


Christians who are lucky enough to get a chance to visit the Middle East, usually have specific sights they want to see. Most of these places are areas where Jesus is believed to have lived, taught, died, and rose from the dead. Visitors try to get in as many sights as possible before they have to depart for home. Carefully planning their itinerary beforehand is important. There are certain places people will definitely not want to miss on their Holy Land vacations.

The Via Dolorosa is the path believers say Jesus was taken on the way to the cross. Visitors can take the same walk and stop along the way at each one of the fourteen stations of the cross. It begins at the Lions' Gate in the Muslim Quarter. Most advise tourists to join the Friday procession or take a guided tour because some stations of the cross can be difficult to spot.

In Jerusalem's Old City, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located on the spot known as Golgotha or Calvary, where Jesus was crucified. Pilgrims since the fourth century have made their way here. Many theorize that Christ's tomb is located below the church.

The Garden Tomb is one of several places historians believe Jesus may have been buried. It was discovered in the middle nineteenth century and has become an especially popular place for Protestants to spend time in prayer and contemplation. Visitors are welcome to explore the 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, believed to be Christ's birthplace, is an important destination, but can be a risky one. It is in Judea, which is currently disputed territory. Visitors who decide to take the risk are allowed to spend time in Shepherd's Field. This is traditionally believed to be the place where Christ's birth was announced by the angels.

Visitors to Nazareth, Jesus' childhood home and the town where Mary and Joseph lived when Gabriel appeared to Mary, is an interesting town to visit. Guests can see Mary's Well and spend some time in the Church of the Annunciation. The original structure, built to commemorate Gabriel's revelation to Mary, is gone. The current one was erected in the mid twentieth century to replace it. Nazareth is located in the vicinity of Mount Tabor.

A trip to the Holy Land is an experience not to be missed for those who have the chance. It is a place sacred to many. Most visitors come away with a renewed commitment to their faith and a clearer sense of Jesus' life.




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