Israel:
Time: (overland from Egypt) – Nov. 14- Nov. 28 (14 days)
This is the point in our journey where we are switching purposes, from intentional interactions with varied cultures and peoples to learning more about our own.  With Mike’s paternal grandparents’ being Jewish holocaust survivors and with both of us having a Christian upbringing, this country provides us with the opportunities to encounter both religions in close proximity. 

The history of Christianity and Judaism within this country is something we are excited to learn more about (as actually being in a place is MUCH different than reading/hearing  about them).   Stops along the way will include Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Masada (meaning “stronghold”, a desert fortress further fortified by Herod that is significant in Jewish history for resistance against the Romans), Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Galilee.  Other towns/regions that hold interest are the West Bank, Haifa, Akko, the Negev desert, and Tel Aviv.  Amongst spiritual and tourist highlights, will be the personal highlight of visiting Grandpa Bernard Katz’s grave.

However, as anyone keeping up with the news knows, Israel has had a turbulent recent past (and present).  Due to a number of expressed fears, we of course will change plans in the itinerary as needed.  At this point, we are respectful of the conflict (offering no opinions) and are choosing to be observers of how the conflict impacts the country’s citizens and the surrounding atmosphere.

November 20th - 24th
Jerusalem

November 25th - 27th
Remaining time in Israel