Shalom from Jerusalem.

I have hundreds of pictures I know you'd love to see but haven't been able to send them from here in Israel. When I return I'll out a select few on this blog

25 of us are here at the International Foursquare Conference from our church. We left on Thursday (July 19) morning and arrived on Friday night (time here is 10 hours ahead of Vancouver). At 6:30 am breakfast was on and we began running. We haven't stopped since. Its very hot and we're very tired but couldn't be happier.

On Saturday at 7:30 am we left on our bus tour and headed for the Mount of Olives. Throughout the day we walked the steps that Jesus walked 2000 years ago. We covered the Mountain then went down the Kidron Valley to Gethsemane where Jesus prayed before the cross.

Then we walked through the sheep gate to see the place where Jesus was tried by Pilate. It was a fascinating journey. Over the hours we walked the streets that Jesus carried his cross. I was surprised how busy, hot and difficult the journey was even for us. It was almost overwhelming to imagine Jesus carrying his cross on the same pathway.

Later in the afternoon we went to Golgatha to see where Jesus was crucified and buried. Then we celebrated his resurrection by taking communion together. It was an unforgettable day!

We were not ready to get up at 5:30 on Sunday morning but we were so glad we did. Our bus group is the same everyday. Besides our group we've come to love many new friends. We headed south toward the Dead Sea.

Among the sights, we saw the caves of the Dead Sea scrolls, the springs of Engedi where David hid from Saul and my favorite, the fortress of Massada. Thank God we were able to ride a cable car up the 3000 foot mountainside. Although it was about 45 degrees the walk was amazing. Although I've seen movies and hundreds of pictures of the area it was more than anyone could imagine. Looking from the fortress over the Dead Sea was an experience I will never forget!

On the return trip we stopped for a swim in the Dead Sea and snapped pictures of all of is floating tourists. We had to do it!

Last evening the Convention began. As good as the tours were, this conference is the highlight. Worshipping beside 3000 people from many nations of the world has been a moving experience. Its Monday morning now. The first meetings started at 7:30. After lunch we'll go back to touring the city of Jerusalem.