Jerusalem | Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Church of St. Peter, and Mount of Olives

Jerusalem, capital of Israel, is one of the oldest cities in the world.

Visited Jerusalem and explored religious or holy places.

Western Wall 

Also known as the "Wailing Wall" or "Kotel", is the most religious site in the world for the Jewish people.

It is the last remaining outer wall of the ancient Jewish temple, and an incredibly important site of modern Israeli history. 

Traditionally, prayers are either spoken or written down and placed in the cracks of the wall. The wall splits into two sections, one area for males and the other for females.

Reference

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem is identified as the place of both the crucifixion and the tomb of Jesus of Nazareth. The church has long been a major pilgrimage center for Christians worldwide.

Reference

Church of St. Peter

Saint-Peter in Gallicantu (from Latin “galli cantu”, meaning “where the rooster has crowed”) is built on the Eastern slopes of the Mount Zion. This spot is believed to be the location of Caiaphas’ palace.

This place commemorates:

• the appearance of Jesus before the High Priest Caiaphas
• the death sentence of Jesus imposed by the Sanhedrin
• the Denial of Peter and his repentance when the rooster crows

Reference

Mount of Olives

Also known as a place of prophesies, prayer, hope, redemption, and victory. 

It has an observation point that offers panoramic view of Jerusalem's old city, Dome of the Rock, the Western Wall, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Other places:

• Independence park
• Tower of David
• Chamber of the Holocaust
• Location of the Last Supper
• Pontius Pilate

♡,

Mari

Galilee | Church of Transfiguration and Church of the Annunciation

Galilee is known for the Sea of Galilee (Jesus walked on water) and where Jesus grew up. It was also said that it was where Jesus started his ministry. 

Mount Tabor

This mountain was said to be a site of settlement and battles between Canaanites and Israelites. Later, it was believed that the transfiguration of Jesus took place in this mountain. 

At present, you will find the Church of Transfiguration, under the Franciscan order, in Mount Tabor. 

Kafr Kanna

Our itinerary was set to visit Nazareth, and eat knafeh along the way. 

But I suggest visiting the place where Jesus performed his first miracle - He transformed water into wine at a wedding feast. 

The Church of the Annunciation 

Commemorates the place where angel Gabriel visited Mary and announced that she will conceive/bear the son of God - Jesus. 

That's all for today!

♡,

Mari

Letters from Mari | For time never waits

I am well aware that time waits for no one.

Life unfolds without waiting for anyone. 

♡,

Mari

2024

Tiberias | Capharnaum, Kinneret, and Yardenit

Thankful for my family since they've already made plans on where we should go. 

Our first stop was at Rabbi Meir and then Capharnaum. 

Capharnaum was a fishing village and was later on known to be where Jesus performed many of his miracles. 

It was said that Jesus called it his "own city" and then at some point, cursed the place due to the people's lack of faith. 

Currently, Capharnaum is often visited by pilgrims and tourists.

Remnants of the ancient synagogue exists here too. 

Capharnaum is next to Kinneret (Sea of Galilee). 

Kinneret is a freshwater lake and was said to be the second lowest lake in the world.

The next day, we went to visit Yardenit.

Yardenit is a site visited by pilgrims and tourists who wanted to experience the waters in which Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. Entrance is free but participating in baptism ceremony is available for a fee. 

I felt spiritual connection after few days of visiting religious sites. A blessed first week in the country. 

♡,

Mari

Israel 2023 | Day 1

Been praying for a long time to have the opportunity to visit Israel and it happened. 

Glory to God! 🙏

All smiles when the plane landed at the Tel Aviv airport, early in the morning.

Thanks to my mom's friends who welcomed me with flowers and warmth 😊

Later, we went to Tiberias.

Met my ninang and ninong, finally. 

Nice meeting Bonnie too 🐶

Btw - Dinner was fantastic!

Can't wait to visit other places!


♡,
Mari

Letters from Mari | Shalom, 2024

Here comes another year,

A heart still with worry and fear,

A silent wish, 

Oh universe, please hear!

A sincere prayer, dear God, make your answer clear!

♡,

Mari

Letters from Mari | Paalam, 2023

A year of understanding and discovery,

Of acceptance and road to recovery.

Step by step, waiting patiently,

Hope for an opportunity.

This year is about letting go,

Take time to let things flow,

Sometimes, weakness may show,

And know that its fine to say no. 

♡,

Mari