Discover the ancient cisterns in Bethlehem linked to the biblical story of King David. Explore the archaeological evidence behind this famous Old Testament narrative.
A Taste of Italy in Bethlehem: Lunch at the Casanova
A Christmas Card: Reflecting on Year's End
Wisemen Wafers: Ancient Pilgrims and the Dust of the Magoi
Discover the fascinating history of eulogia—ancient holy tokens and "wisemen wafers" that allowed pilgrims to literally swallow the dust of the Bible lands. Explore how these tiny artifacts may preserve lost mosaics of the Magoi and the legends that saved the Church of the Nativity from destruction.
O little town . . .
Rubber boots
Christmastide pilgrims
It may seem odd to be thinking about pilgrims at Christmastide. But it is fitting. Pilgrimage is for every season. There is never a wrong time to undertake a journey for the purpose of encountering God. Most pilgrimages are unexpected and topsy-turvy experiences. Sometimes they get messy. Ask Paul the Apostle. Whom did he expect to meet on the road to Damascus? Or ask the Christmas shepherds. After they heard the angelic announcement, they said:
"Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened" (Luke 2:15).
Jesus Trail, Jan 3-10, 2017
Thousands of sightseers view the land of the bible through the window of a tour bus. A few seek a deeper experience. If you are among the latter group (or know someone who is), I invite you to try Galilee on foot. There is no better way to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of the Heartland. For those who are veterans of a standard study- or pilgrimage-tour, this may be the perfect way to build upon that previous experience.