Garden Tomb

So....I've been slacking on this whole blog thing the past few days. Just a quick update. Last Shabbot we had the opportunity to go to the Garden Tomb. It was a beautiful and peaceful place in comparision to the hustle and bustle and craziness of East Jerusalem. As soon as I walked in the gates I felt a sense of relief and profound peace. The gardens are beautiful and well kept and it is similar to what I picture the Garden Tomb looking like. It is a very speical place. I got to walk into the tomb where some believe Christ was laid after his crucifixion and death. On the door is a sign that says "He is not here for He is Risen". It was an amazing place to sit and meditate and reflect on the atonement and resurrection of the Savior. It was a very neat experience. We sang a few hymns about the resurrection and Jesus Christ. I really loved it there and hope to be able to go back many more times.

Western Wall

Last night I had the opportunity to go to the Western Wall and celebrate the start of Shabbot with the Jewish people. It was a really special experience to be able to go up to the wall and see these wonderful women sobbing at the wall. It was a humbling experience and it really touched me. The Western Wall is such a sacred and speical place and it is all they have left of their temple. The Jewish people are so friendly and welcoming. I was able to talk to a couple of girls around my age who shared with us some of their beliefs and customs. I love learning about all the different religions and their similarities to my own religion. The girls were so kind and good about explaining reasons for doing things and the symbolism that was behind what was taking place. I even got to join in on a dance with them to welcome in the Sabbath. It was really cool! Words can't explain how amazing this experience was. To see the sorrow at the loss of the temple but also the tremendous joy that they have was incredible. It was one of my favorite experiences here so far. :)

Week 1

Shalom! So i'm still getting used to this blog thing but I just wanted to update everyone on my trip and what I've been up to the last week and a half. After a full day of flying we finally made it to Israel. I live in one of the most beautiful places in the whole world. The building is so big and open and looks out over the Old City of Jerusalem. It really doesn't get much better than that. I have really just gone out and explored the Old City this week. It's a lot of fun to explore all the different shops and markets that they have here. I have gone to the Church of the Holy Seplecure and the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. I went to a service at the Lutheran Church that was really good. I love learning about all the different religions and cultures here. There are seriously people from all over the world and it is so fun to talk to them. I love the Old City and the beautiful people that are there...even though it is dirty and smells funny sometimes I love walking around and taking in everything. Last Shabbot (Saturday) I had the opportunity to go to the Garden of Gethsemene. It was not what I was really expecting but nonetheless there is still a special spirit. Even though it may not be the exact spot it was good to be able to sit there and contemplate the atonement and think about the Savior. Being in this beautiful and historical city is such a great blessing. Jerusalem is truly a special place :)