viewpoint

The Sea of Galilee – let this be the starting point for our wanderings around the land that was home to Jesus and his disciples.

Tiberias is the town from which most of today’s visitors make the start to their appreciation of the area. A short boat trip across the water to Capernaum is a high spot: half way over the skipper orders, “Stop engines.” You just drift in the intoxicating silence. [Read more…] about Israel – Ancient And Modern (Part 3 of 4)

Here are a few more recollections – secular and spiritual – about the land in which Jesus lived and which is now the focus of attention for an increasing number of pilgrims.

Nearly all of them arrive at Bethlehem in coaches which park in the large central square. The name of this square? You might think it would be something like Central Square or Bethlehem Square, but it is Manger Square.
[Read more…] about Israel – Ancient And Modern (Part 2 of 4)

Until fairly recently few people from Chandler’s Ford had visited Israel, but now there are some of our parishioners who have joined groups of pilgrims and flown to the Holy Land. Some had pre-conceptions, other had eyes and minds open, ready and willing to accept anything which would strengthen their beliefs.

Here are a few of my own observations – certainly not all with a religious connection – which I hope will bring back happy memories. [Read more…] about Israel – Ancient And Modern (Part 1 of 4)