Some Top Places To See For Christians On Their First Holy Land Vacations

By Gary Edwards


For Christians a trip to the Holy Land is an experience not to be missed. Most would love to spend a few hours looking out over the Sea of Galilee, walking the Way of Sorrows, and visiting the Garden Tomb. Tourists coming to this area usually want to see as much as possible to get a feel for what it must have been like when Jesus walked, taught and died here. Holy Land vacations are a great way for Christians to see some of the places they have read about.

One of the first things most Christians want to do when they come to Israel is to walk the Via Dolorosa. It extends from the Lions' Gate located at the Muslim Quarter to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre at the Christian Quarter. This is the path many believe Jesus took on the way to Calvary on His last day. The route incorporates the fourteen stations of the cross. Finding the plaque indicating a station can be difficult. Tourists are encouraged to take advantage of guided tours.

In Jerusalem's Old City, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located on the spot known as Golgotha or Calvary, where Jesus was crucified. Pilgrims since the fourth century have made their way here. Many theorize that Christ's tomb is located below the church.

Opinions differ as to the actual location of Jesus' burial place. There are historians who argue that He is not buried in the Church of the Sepulchre, but rather is interred in the Garden Tomb discovered in mid eighteen hundred. Protestants are especially drawn to this tomb. Both chambers are open for the public to explore.

Jesus spent a considerable amount of time near the Sea of Galilee, and most visitors want to get a look at the place where He found many of His disciples. This sea is actually a large freshwater lake, and tourists can take a sail in a vessel not unlike those used by fishermen in Jesus' time.

Bethlehem, believed to be Christ's birthplace, is an important destination, but can be a risky one. It is in Judea, which is currently disputed territory. Visitors who decide to take the risk are allowed to spend time in Shepherd's Field. This is traditionally believed to be the place where Christ's birth was announced by the angels.

Jesus spent His early years in Nazareth, and visitors to this town near Mount Tabor can see the spot where Gabriel appeared to Mary to give her the news that she would give birth to the Son of God. The original church built to commemorate this holy event is gone, but in the 1950s a new church was erected in its place.

The Holy Land is a special place for Christians. Traveling in the area is more like a pilgrimage than a vacation. Those lucky enough to see the places Jesus may have inhabited, never forget the experience. Many find a renewed sense of commitment and dedication to His teachings that last a lifetime.




About the Author:



No comments :

Post a Comment