Holy Lands Cruise, Northern Israel

We had an early start today as we docked at Haifa and then headed inland to visit the Sea of Galilee area. As we drove, our guide informed us that the sequence of stops would change due to an "around the lake" bike rally going on today.   We did see a lot of bikes as well as traffic,  but were able to see everything on our itinerary.

Our first stop was the Jordan River, a popular spot for people to be re-baptized, by immersion. Two of our party did so, while a few had their baptism commemorated by having some water put on their head in a short ceremony. It is a very pretty place and the water is an unusual green color.  I dipped my foot in the Jordan, and later got my picture taken with author and tour speaker Dr Paul Maier.

Next we headed for Capernaum.  This is a city that was abandoned in the 4th century and only excavated in the last 100 years. Dr Maier said how this was an archeological treasure since they did not have to sift thru many layers from modern times to get to Bible times. A synagogue dating to the 3rd century has been reconstructed, but right under it is the floor from when Jesus was there (as Dr. Maier said, "These very boulders heard Jesus' voice").  Also next door is the house where apostle Peter lived and Jesus preached and that is apparently intact from when Jesus was there.  Unfortunately the eastern orthodox church saw fit to build a church on top of the site of Peter's house, but it is still very visible, as you can see in the bottom photo at the right.

 We also visited the church of the Beatitudes (left), where it is said that Jesus gave His Sermon on the Mount.  That was followed by another church where Jesus reportedly did the miracle of the Loaves and Fishes, and and one where Jesus reportedly asked Peter 3 times "Do You Love Me?"

But one of the more intriguing things was just seeing the Sea of  Galilee as we drove around it.  It is one of the sites given a "10" by Dr. Maier on his scale of authenticity. 

Our lunch was most interesting, starting with appetizers of cole slaw, pita bread, hummus, and barbecue sauce. It was quite a surprise when the main course platter was served, with 10 of what they called "St Peter's Fish" on it; the entire fish -- head, tail, scales, eyes, and all!   It was actually quite tasty, but you had to be careful about the bones.  It was served with some roasted potatoes and fried onions. 

On to Bethlehem and Jerusalem tomorrow.