The Church of Ireland Diocese of Connor

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Peaceful day in the steps of Jesus’s lakeside ministry

Wednesday March 30th 2011

Connor pilgrims took the pace a little more slowly on their penultimate day in the Holy Land, visiting sites associated with Jesus’s lakeside ministry.

Some rose early to watch the sun rise over the Sea of Galilee, and many took the opportunity for a pre-breakfast dip in its waters.

The sun shone as the pilgrims drove to the north to the ruins of Capernaum, Jesus’s Galilean base. Then it was on to the Mount of Beatitudes where the church commemorating the Sermon on the Mount is set amidst beautiful gardens.

Bishop Alan celebrated Holy Communion on the lakeshore at Tabgha, close to the Church of the Loaves and Fishes, a stunning location for a very moving service, which was blessed with perfect peace punctuated only by the sound of the pilgrims’ prayers, readings, songs and beautiful birdsong.

The group lunched at the Convent of the Beatitudes, where they all enjoyed a St Peter’s fish (each) which was quite delicious.

The Sea of Galilee remained calm as the 85-strong group sailed back to Tiberias on a replica of the Jesus Boat, an hour long sailing which gave time for readings, prayers, private contemplation, and even a bit of music provided by the boat crew which prompted some interesting dance moves on deck!

Pilgrims visit sites in Galilee

Pilgrims make their way to the Sea of Galilee

Pilgrims join local Christians for worship in Jerusalem

Pilgrims visit Bethlehem

Camel rides and Dead Sea dips for Pilgrims

Pilgrims walk the Via Dolorosa

Pilgrims begin their tour of the Holy Land

Countdown to diocesan pilgrimage to the Holy Land

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