I’ve had so many questions floating around my head before our journey to the Holy Land.  What is life like in the prayer-drenched birthplace of Christianity?  How do residents find peace, shalom, salaam?  As Americans, what role do we play in the affecting their lives?

Our group discussed and heard all about these questions as we walked where Jesus walked in the Holy Land, Spring of 2010.  We prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, broke bread on the shore of Sea of Galilee, reaffirmed our baptism in the Jordan River, and processed in the Palm Sunday celebrations.  Our Palestinian Lutheran guide also arranged for us to be in Nazareth for the celebration of the Annunciation, angel Gabriel’s announcement of the birth of Jesus.  It was truly a special time to be in the Holy Land, both spiritually and politically.  We spoke with Lutheran leaders and heads of schools, hospitals, refugee camps, and other nongovernmental organizations.  All inspired hope and instilled a sense of urgency for the re-commitment to prayers of peace for those living in Palestine and Israel.  So may God’s peace fill your life.

- Cameron Beck

See Katie’s Blog with lots more commentary and photos!