Bethlehem sunrise

We have arrived! We’re tired, happy, already seeing this world with new eyes. For more on our arrival experience, check out John Hobbins’ blog entry (for his Rotaract group’s “Oshkosh to Ibillin” project).

This was sunrise in Bethlehem — beginning our first full day in Palestine. John took the other photos during our opening gathering with our new best friend and fearless leader, Usama Nicola. It’s Sunday morning. In a few hours we’ll be with Christmas Lutheran Church for worship, then on to Wi’am for an orientation and a visit to Aida Refugee Camp. The serious blogging begins tonight! Thanks for following us, and let us know your thoughts or questions.

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Candice and Yessra

Laurie

Moe

Usama Nicola, Tour Leader

The peace dove decorates the separation wall.

Twenty-five “pilgrims” from across the United States will travel together October 25 – November 7, 2013 on a spiritual journey to connect with the places and people of the Holy Land. Sponsored by Pilgrims of Ibillin, we will visit biblical holy sites and “walk where Jesus walked,” but will also meet peacemakers from all of Israel/Palestine’s religious and cultural groups. Our intent is to hear stories beyond what makes it into our major media, and to learn what life is like for our brothers and sisters — Christians, Muslims, and Jews — in Israel and the West Bank.

We invite our friends and families to follow our blog! We’ll post stories and photos along the way, and try to give a snapshot of some of our experiences and insights. Shalom, Salaam, Peace!