The Way of the Cross

Another sunny day, perfect for a long walk---but this was not Cranbrook nor a stroll through a typical suburban neighborhood. We began at the Church of the the Flaggalation, stations I and II of the Way of Sorrows. Our Lord's Prayer comforted us through the rememberence of the sentencing of Jesus and the receiving of the cross. The walk was challenging, even in modern times...an uphill climb on cobblestones, but our guide was excellent in providing the imagery of how it was 2000 years ago.
The walk culminated at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. One could spend weeks here among the ancient stone pathways, the numerous chapels and most important, the divergence of so many religious groups who agree to be 'caretakers' of their holy sites.
A refreshing lunch of Shawarma or Falafel was enjoyed rooftop, above the City of David. What a panoramic view! The Muslim call to prayer was heard, closely followed by the noon bells of a Christian mass...how better to punctuate the diversity of cultures.
We visited the Western Wall and joined people of all faiths and cultures at this holy site to pray. Although I felt the Jewish presence most notably here, I also could feel and appreciate the holiness and was so grateful for the experience. As Pat and I finished our prayer at the Wall, walking backwards in respect (as tradition suggests)----tears welled as we contemplated the scene, the peace, the love.
Nancy


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