Wandering about Gethsemane today put “agony” into a whole new perspective for me.

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For thousands of years, pilgrims have spoken of their desire to “go up” to Jerusalem.

They weren’t kidding.

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You didn’t want to pick the wrong elevator at our hotel today, particularly if your room’s on one of the upper floors.

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Our witty and intrepid guide, Nasser, has witnessed a lot through the years…as he’s shepherded various groups and pilgrimages throughout Israel.

Even he was surprised, however, to see the water level in the River Jordan today.

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For lunch today, I had my eye on a delicious fish from the Sea of Galilee.

And it had its eye on me.

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Judging by the flood of pilgrims we encountered on the town’s exceedingly narrow streets today, more than a few couples have renewed their wedding vows at Cana in Galilee through the years.

Still, something tells me our blessing was unique.

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Our pilgrimage leader bumped into an old friend today…atop the Mount of Beatitudes — best-selling author James Martin SJ.

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We broke bread with a Druze gentleman at lunchtime, and we were blessed indeed. Continue reading →

Our pilgrim bus passed an orange truck on Highway 6, headed north from Tel Aviv on Sunday. Continue reading →

Praying with Ps 139, as we arrive in Chicago… Continue reading →