Unseasonably cold temperatures and torrential downpours have inundated our group for the past couple of days, but the weather hasn’t dampened our spirits. Here are a couple of the latest highlights from the Galilee: a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee; singing together on the Mount of Beatitudes; gazing upon beautiful iconography at the schools founded by Abuna Elias Chacour; conversation with an Israeli sociologist; a visit to Nazareth, the hometown of Jesus; and exploring an ancient water shaft at Tel Megiddo, one of the most important cities in the Ancient Near Eastern world.

Twenty-four individuals from our congregation left February 23 for a 12-day visit to Jordan and Israel, sponsored by the Pilgrims of Ibillin. While in Israel, they will visit the Mar Elias schools in Ibillin and will worship in Haifa with Archbishop Elias Chacour. Rev. Deborah Knott will be sending us regular reports on their journey. This is her first post; check back often for more news of the travelers.