Israel Day Two: North to Galilee

Journeying up from the desert land to our Galilee hotel on our first day, we would drive through the West Bank, including a security check point verifying our identity before re-entering Israeli territory. This tension seems so very routine to Israelis, just part of life. Day two would take us on quite a journey north towards Lebanon and Syria, including the Sea of Galilee.


First we visited the headwaters of the River Jordan. This area was cool, serene and peaceful, and seemed to betray any discord in lands nearby.












We carried onto Caesarea Philippi.




Here we read the account in Matthew when Jesus asks his disciples "Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?"


Our friends Glen and Rachel












We drove up around the Golan Heights, the area that shares a border with Syria. We didn't go up as far as planned, however, because the day prior there was a violent outbreak ending in the death of four Syrians as protestors tore through the border fence.


Capernaum, a multilayered city with a rich Roman and Jewish history, is where Jesus performed most of his miracles.


Ruins upon ruins, the dark stone is the remains of the synagogue where Jesus taught.




The synagogue ruins








Our illustrious guide, Steven Rona. Each stop was filled with thoughtful discussion and readings. At the synagogue in Capernaum he demonstrated Jewish worship and explained the details and meanings behind the traditional Jewish articles. I felt a deep connection to Jews after all I learned.


The sight commonly known as Peter's house, with a big Catholic church suspended over it.


Lunch on this day was a real highlight. Despite its rather off-putting appearance this fish was delicious!


We ate at this seafront restaurant.




Food in general was de-licious in Israel.


Falafal balls, made from ground chickpeas, were a huge hit and became a trip staple.


Focaccia bread was also a favourite trip companion, just ask Glen :)




We took this boat for a scenic ride on the Sea of Galilee.


Our final stop for the day was at the Mt. of Beatitudes, where this church stands.




"Blessed are they . . ."