Today's Itinerary: "This morning we will depart Tiberias and travel south through the Jordan valley to the traditional baptismal site on the River Jordan to renew our baptismal vows. The Bible tells us that the Children of Israel crossed the River Jordan opposite Jericho when they came into the Promised Land. The prophet Elijah divided its waters and crossed with Elisha on dry land. Naaman the Syrian dipped in the waters seven times and was cured of his leprosy. And Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan (Mark 1:9). Each year, pilgrims from far and wide come to the Place of Baptism to immerse themselves in these holy waters. From here, we will visit ancient Jericho, the oldest known city in the Western world. In 1250 B.C., Joshua encircled the city and at the blast of the priests' trumpets, the walls came tumbling down (Joshua 6). Many times Jesus passed through this city on his way to Jerusalem. The sycamore fig, the tree which Zacchaeus climbed in order to catch a glimpse of Jesus, still grows in this area. From the ruins of ancient Jericho, we will ascend the Mount of Temptation where Jesus faster and prayer fort days to resist the devil. Then we drive to the Dead Sea for a swim in its salty, mineral-laden waters. Next we will stop in Bethany to visit the site of the House of Mary, Martha and Lazarus and the Tomb of Lazarus. After Mass in Bethany we will continue on to Jerusalem, our home for the next six nights."
Today's Prayer Intention: For Holy Family Shelter in Indianapolis.
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