Shabbat Shalom

Today was our first Sabbath.

We go to church on Saturday since that is the Jewish sabbath and the day most of the church members in the area get off work. Even without the students in the JC, there are about 70 church members in the Jerusalem Branch. We had over 200 today since there is a tour group in town.

After church I went with some friends to the Garden of Gethsemane and Orson Hyde Park. One particular section of the garden has been gated off and flowers have been planted. This is where people think Jesus Christ suffered for our sins. Across the street was "the Mormon garden," as one Arab guy called it (I'm not sure why). It felt more peaceful and more real over there since there were fewer additions and tourists. I'm sure I will return several times over the semester. I'm especially anxious to go back after we study the Atonement in our New Testament class.

By the way, we are easily recognizable as Mormons here. Everyone in town seems to know who the Mormons are. It's kind of fun. I'd rather be known for being Mormon than for being an American tourist.

By Jaffa Gate, just outside the Old City and shortly before we were attacked by a group of 6-year-old children trying to get us to buy gum and toys. And I seriously mean attacked. They followed us down the street, pulling on our clothes and pounding on our legs with their little fists. We just had to laugh and keep walking. What else do you do?

View from our balcony

The Garden of Gethsemane--this is where they think Christ suffered for our sins

The more natural part of the garden that I liked a lot better

At the Catholic church near the Garden of Gethsemane