The Via Dolorosa, or “Way of Suffering” in Latin, is a processional route in the Old City of Jerusalem. The route is established by tradition and widely recognised as the path that Jesus would have walked while on His way to the crucifixion. Over the centuries, the route has changed several times. The original street level where Jesus would have walked is about 6 metres below today’s street level. There are fourteen stations along the Via Dolorosa route, with five stations inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

The route begins at the Praetorium where Jesus was tried and convicted, near the Lions’ Gate in the Muslim Quarter and ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Christian Quarter. It travels through busy streets lined with snack bars and tourist shops.

Some historical points of interest include the reconstructed Ecce Homo Arch of the Sisters of Our Lady of Zion, and underneath that convent are stone pavings of The Lithostratos or “The Pavement”, where Jesus was condemned by Pilate (John 19:13–15). The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a fascinating complex of structures of different medieval architectural history. The Church is always packed with noisy tourists and pilgrims, all drawn to pay homage to their Saviour, Jesus Christ.

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Purim is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman, who was planning to kill all Jews. This event took place in the ancient Achaemenid Persian Empire and was recorded in the Book of Esther. It is celebrated annually per the Hebrew calendar on the 14^th day of the Hebrew month Adar. Purim 2019 will begin in the evening of Wednesday, 20^th March and will conclude in the evening of Thursday, 21^th March.

As recorded in the Book of Esther, after the destruction of Judah, the Jews were held in captivity by the Babylonian Empire. When the Persians conquered Babylonia, Haman, adviser to Persian King Ahasuerus, plotted to “destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews—young and old, infants and women and children—on a single day” (Esther 3:13 NIV), but was ultimately defeated by Mordecai and Ahasuerus’ newly crowned queen, Esther. Purim, which directly translates to “lots”, refers to Haman selecting the massacre date of the Jews by throwing and drawing lots.

This Jewish holiday is observed and celebrated with the reading of the Megillah (Book of Esther) in the synagogue; donating monetary gifts to the poor; exchanging reciprocal gifts of food and drink; and se’udat Purim, a festive celebratory meal with wine and alcoholic beverages. Other celebrations include street parades and carnivals, people dress up in costumes and wear masks symbolizing Esther’s concealed identity.

Celebrating Purim in Israel

Furthermore, at Purim, Jewish treat themselves with hamantaschen, which are triangle-shaped pocket pastries commonly filled with fruit jam, cheese or poppy seeds, and claimed to be named after Haman, as he wore a hat with three corners.

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Praise the Lord for a wonderful time in Israel over the past 2 weeks! About 1300 participants from all over the world came to Israel for Grace 2016 TBN Israel Tour with Pastor Joseph Prince.

There were 3 live events with Pastor Joseph Prince where he shared the gospel of grace.

24 February 2016 – 1st event at Southern Steps, Jerusalem

Southern Steps is the flight of stairs that led to the main entrances of the Temple Mount. It is certain that Jesus had to climb these steps to enter the Temple. This is also probably the place where the 3,000 were baptised when they were saved on Pentecost.

It was actually raining in Jerusalem a few days before the event, but look at the clear blue sky! How faithful is our Lord Jesus that He knows the desires of our hearts!

Pointing to the one that deserves all the praise and worship.

John 1:17 (NIV) – “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”

26 February 2016 – 2nd event at Tzemach Beach by the Sea of Galilee, Tiberias

Here, at the Sea of Galilee was where Jesus rebuked the winds and the sea, taught from Peter’s boat, and walked on water. It is also the lowest freshwater lake in the world!

Matt & Laurie Crouch welcoming the crowd! We are thankful for the both of them and the TBN team for organizing this event where we get to listen to the gospel of grace by the Sea of Galilee.

Here, Pastor Joseph Prince shared the secret of John and that is to lean on Jesus’s love for us and not to depend on our love for Him.

New Creation Worship led the people into praise & worship, singing songs about the Lord’s love and grace for us.

There is freedom in the house of God for He has turned our mourning into dancing!

“You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!” Psalm 30:11-12 (NLT)

28 February 2016 – 3rd event at Caesarea Maritima, Caesarea

Caesarea Maritima is where Peter preached the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ to Cornelius’ household, placing them among the earliest Gentile believers of the New Covenant. This paved the way for Christianity to spread to all nations.

Welcoming the participants from all over the world!

Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the beautiful sunset!

At the last session of Grace 2016 TBN Israel Tour, Pastor Joseph Prince shared about the high priest’s garment.

To catch these events, TBN will be broadcasting them at the following timings (Pacific Time):

Session 1 – Feb 28, 7 pm PT

Session 2 – Mar 13, 7 pm PT

Session 3 – Mar 20, 7 pm PT

For those who have missed session 1, you may catch the replay at iTBN archives – http://bit.ly/G16TBN1

Sitting in Northern Israel, between the Golan Heights and the Galilee region, is the Sea of Galilee. Known locally as Lake Kinneret, the Sea of Galilee is the lowest freshwater lake on earth, spanning approximately 21km long and 13km wide and resembling the shape of an ancient lyre. The Sea of Galilee is not only Israel’s main water source but it also boasts an amazing surroundings of mountains and beaches.

The area around the Kinneret is an important and relevant site in Jesus’ ministry – He walked on the water of the Sea of Galilee, He taught the crowds by the shore, He delivered the Sermon on the Mount, He healed the sick and He fed 5,000 people with just five loaves of bread and two fishes.

Today, you can take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. But what you may find more historically significant are the remains of a small fishing boat, alike Peter’s boat. During a drought in 1986, two brothers from a kibbutz discovered this relic, and this Ancient Galilee Boat is now currently on display in the Yigal Alon Center. There, you can learn more about how the boat was moved from the wet land to dry land, or take the exit at the back of the museum and embark on a boat ride of a lifetime.

While in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Capernaum, with its spectacular ruins of a first century synagogue (built over a pre-existing synagogue from the time of Jesus) and the home of Peter. Take a seat on stone benches or walk around the hometown of Jesus, where He performed many miracles, and don’t forget to take in the beauty of the sea whilst at the shoreline of Capernaum.

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Elevated over 350m above sea level, at the southwestern base of Mount Hermon, lies the ancient Greco-Roman city called Caesarea Philippi which became the religious centre for worship of the Greek god, Pan. The Greeks named the city Panias in his honour.

The region of Caesarea Philippi was the furthest north Jesus took His disciples. It is believed that near Caesarea Philippi, Jesus declared that He would establish a church, and gave authority over it to Simon whom He renamed Peter.

Just 6km west of Caesarea Philippi is Tel Dan, now a nature reserve with a remarkable archaeological site that is home to extraordinary remains of Canaanite and Israelite cities. During the Canaanite period, this city, known then as Laish, expanded and grew into a large Canaanite city – it was strategically located at the intersection of major ancient trade routes. Furthermore, during biblical times, many families from the tribe of Dan were forced out of their home by the Philistines, and thus relocated to the area near Laish, on the foothills of Mount Hermon, for its fertile valley and abundance of water.

This city was destroyed and rebuilt 20 times over 3,500 years, but underwent the most extensive damage during the defeat of the Kingdom of Israel by the Assyrian Empire in 722 BCE, and was never fully reconstructed to its former size and prominence.

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Petra: A UNESCO World Heritage site & one of the New Seven Wonders of the World

Hidden behind soaring cliffs is none other than Jordan’s most prized tourist attraction, the prehistoric Jordanian city of Petra. Commonly known as the Rose-Red City, for its impressive monuments carved into the sandstone-coloured mountain, or the Lost City of Stone, for it was an uninhabited ruin for centuries, this ancient city was declared UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985, and in 2007, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This city’s architecture is the legacy of the Nabateans, who beyond their remarkable stone-carving abilities, proved great innovation in trade and irrigation systems in the middle of the desert. Thanks to the Nabateans, people today get to witness the magnificently carved Treasury, with a façade so impressive from its sheer scale, down to its intricate detail. This city was ultimately conquered by the Roman Empire in 106 AD and its significance in international trade declined due to the necessity of sea trade routes. Today, the city’s tombs (many of which have been looted by thieves), demonstrate a combination of Nabatean and Greco-Roman architectural styles.

Watch and admire the Nabateans remarkable stone-carving abilities:

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A city with its history dating back to 6000BC

As one of the best preserved and restored cities of the Ancient era, it’s no wonder the ancient city of Ephesus was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2015. Located about 80km south of modern-day Izmir, Turkey, this city is home to one of the seven churches of Revelation mentioned in the Bible. Its rich history dates to 6000BC and comprises temples, theatres, libraries, statues and houses.

Considered to be strategically located in ancient standards, this monumental city centre was once an esteemed port city and an important cultural and commercial centre in the Mediterranean region. This site boasts the remarkable Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre that could seat about 24,000 people, the Temple of Hadrian and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Uncovered at the ancient city of Ephesus were also Terrace Houses of Roman nobles and the Cave of Seven Sleepers, aqueducts, commercial and state buildings, agora, and other significant monuments and embellishments, including even public toilets and a brothel.

Even though the region was destroyed by the Cimmerian invasion early 7th century BC, Ephesus was one of the wealthiest cities in the Mediterranean world while ruled by the Lydian kings. Furthermore, the city was regarded as a centre of learning, and women enjoyed equal rights and privileges to men. Throughout history, Ephesus survived numerous attacks and was conquered many times over, and its archaeological remains thus include Hellenistic and Roman settlements.

The ancient city played a crucial part in the spread of Christianity, from Saint Paul and Saint John visiting and reproving the cults of Artemis in 1st century AD and succeeded in converting many to Christianity. Additionally, Mary, the mother of Jesus, was believed to have spent her last here with Saint John – you can even visit her house and John’s tomb there.

Watch to see how beautiful this ancient city is:

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Where to celebrate Christmas in Israel?

In Israel, Christmas is not considered a publicly celebrated holiday. But even so, celebrating Christmas in the Holy Land can be a meaningful and memorable experience for Christians if you know where to go. So, which places should you visit this holiday season? Word on the street is that the best places for Christmas include Bethlehem, Old City of Jerusalem, Jaffa (Tel Aviv) and Nazareth.

Bethlehem

At the birth place of Jesus, Bethlehem, an impressive and famous midnight mass is held every Christmas Eve. Here, the Church of the Nativity, which is one of the oldest surviving Christian churches, honours the place where Mary gave birth to Jesus. At the main square, Manger Square, people of all walks of life come together to celebrate.

Jerusalem

On Christmas Eve, join fellow Christians in the Old City of Jerusalem, walking the Via Dolorosa route. There is also a Christmas Eve mass at the magnificent chapel of the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center that was built by the Vatican in the 19^th century.

Jaffa

Jaffa’s old-world vibe and its winding alleyways beautified by art galleries and historic stone buildings are even more spectacular during Christmas, when they’re adorned with Christmas trees, lights and Hanukkah menorahs. The Jaffa Flea Market, the Jaffa port that hosts a Christmas market and local church doors welcome people of all shapes and sizes.

Nazareth

Believed to be Jesus’ hometown, Nazareth, is home to Israel’s largest Christian population. Here, the festive seasons’ celebrations start early with the light of the Christmas tree in early December. Its city streets are decked out with decorated trees and outdoor street fairs commemorating both Christmas and Hanukkah. Come Christmas Eve, enjoy an elaborate and colourful Christmas Eve parade and fireworks that conclude at the Church of the Annunciation.

How did Hanukkah come about?

About 200 BCE, Israel was ruled by Seleucids (an empire ruled under the Greek law) and under the charge of King Antiochus Epiphanes. He wanted all the empire to follow Greek ways of life and the Greek religion. He took control of the Temple in Jerusalem and banned practising the Jewish faith and religion. Many Jews were killed for their faith. However, Judah Maccabee and a small ally of faithful Jews revolted against and defeated the Seleucid monarchy and its powerful armies. It is said that when Judah and his followers went into the Temple, there was only enough oil to burn for one night, but that it miraculously lasted for eight nights.

The dates of Hanukkah and Christmas might well be associated, because the rededication of the Temple to the Lord took place on the 25^th day of the Hebrew month called Kislev.

Hanukkah Traditions

Hanukkah is traditionally a family celebration. It is customary to light the candles on a hanukkiyah, which is lit every night for eight nights. Children and households play the dreidel games. They eat fried and oily foods as a reminder of the miracle of the oil. Many Jews give gifts during the holiday.

Only have a week for your next vacation? How about spending a week somewhere you have never been and never thought of? Jordan! You can still squeeze in many of Jordan’s hot spots without feeling rushed.

So why Jordan?

Jordan offers a glimpse of everything: Petra’s treasury, Jerash and its ancient Roman ruins, the Bedouin heritage at Wadi Rum, the wildlife of Mujib Biosphere Reserve and the magnificent view of the Dead Sea.

Step back in time to the Roman Empire

The Decapolis was an alliance of ten cities. All but one were on the east side of the Jordan. Even Amman was once called Philadelphia and part of the Decapolis. Today, you can still trace history at the Citadel with its impressive Greek and Roman ruins. Jerash, dubbed the “Pompeii of the East”, is a large and fascinating archaeological site. Its ruins are said to be best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. Roman-era cobblestones still bear the ruts of ancient chariot wheels. The impressive Hadrian’s Arch was built to honour the Roman Emperor Hadrian’s visit to the city in AD 129. Bordered by 160 iconic columns, you cannot miss the Forum (Oval Plaza).

Petra, more than just one building

The tombs and monuments of this ancient metropolis, carved deeply into the reddish cliffs, are like nothing else on earth. Petra was an ancient Nabatean city that was once an important crossroad between the Middle East with Europe and Asia. Today, being one of the “new seven wonders of the world”, Petra is a vast city that takes at least one full day to properly explore. You can see varying blends of Nabatean and Greco-Roman architectural styles in the city’s tombs. You must not miss the Treasury, being the most well-known, without venturing off the main path. Continue your walk to the Royal Tombs and Roman ruins. For those with enough energy, make the trek up to the massive Monastery for its splendour.

The Dead Sea, the lowest natural spa on Earth

You must experience the feeling of floating in the Dead Sea without any effort at all. Once you walk in, your body instantly bobs to the surface, leaving you free to lie back and relax. After your swim, slather yourself in Dead Sea mud, known for its restorative properties. Who knows, you may leave feeling ten years younger! Return to the hotel to enjoy a spa treatment and watch the sunset across the water.

Mujib Biosphere Reserve, the lowest nature reserve on Earth

Bordering the Dead Sea at 416m below sea level, the Mujib Biosphere Reserve surrounds a deep and majestic canyon that cuts through the rugged highlands and drains into the Dead Sea. Hike through the reserve and discover its rich biodiversity of over 300 species of plants, 10 species of carnivores, rare specious of mountain animals, numerous species of resident and migratory birds. See the rich vegetation in the wadi beds and look out for at least 9 species of birds of prey known to breed in the reserve.

Camp under the stars with Bedouins

Be transported to a completely different time and world! Wadi Rum, a stunning desert in southern Jordan! Discover this protected wilderness of towering cliffs and striking ochre dunes from a jeep. After seeing your first golden-red sunset you will never want to leave. By night, walk under the brilliant stars, hear Bedouins tell stories of their culture and stay in a traditional Bedouin camp in the desert.

Snorkel the vibrant reefs of the Red Sea

Dusty from the desert? Head for the gorgeous reefs and beaches of Aqaba, a resort city by the Red Sea. The Red Sea boasts some of the world’s finest scuba diving and snorkelling, a full range of water sports. Expect to find a wide range of marine life including more than a thousand species of fish and 200 species of coral. You may spot manta rays, sea turtles, and dolphins. Expect the water to be a little chilly since it is winter time.

Mount Nebo – View of the Promised Land

From Mount Nebo, you can take in the dazzling view Moses supposedly beheld so long ago. He saw the Promised Land – the vast ridges of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem and Bethlehem. At the top of this hill sits a stone memorial to Moses and the newly restored Byzantine church, built by monks in the 3^rd or 4^th century AD.

Bethany Beyond The Jordan, the Baptism Site

The area is associated with a few Bible stories. Near here, it is believed that Joshua led the Israelites across the Jordan River to the Promised Land after the waters miraculously stopped flowing. Here, Elijah was believed to be taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire. Jesus came here to be baptised by John the Baptist. Here was where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.

Call us today and book your tour to Jordan – a new adventure awaits you!

This tour will be taking place from 18 April to 28 April 2017. The tour includes 3 awesome praise & worship services with ministry guests Brian and Bobbi Houston (sharing) and award-winning Hillsong United worship team in Jerusalem, Galilee and Caesarea.

Click here for more details about the tour.

Sea of Galilee

Another highlight of this tour is the opportunity to get on board a boat on the Sea of Galilee. I believe this place needs no introduction.

The blue water of the Sea of Galilee, set against a green and brown background of surrounding mountains, creates a lovely scene! Here, Jesus gave more than half of His parables and performed most of His miracles. Here, Jesus calmed a storm and He walked on the water. Here, you get to walk the paths Jesus walked, visit Peter’s house in Capernaum, and even see a boat from His time that was discovered in 1986.

Imagine yourself as one of the disciples who were caught in the storm. Experience the peace they would have felt when Jesus came onto their boat.

Prepare some bread and you will see many seagulls flying around your boat!

Sign up with us today for a one-of-a-kind tour and get ready for an exciting journey and an intimate time of praise and worship led by Hillsong UNITED!

Hillsong UNITED singing Oceans at the Sea of Galilee. Enjoy and be blessed!

Follow in the footsteps of Jesus as you journey through the land of Israel and attend three praise & worship sessions led by Hillsong UNITED in Jerusalem, Galilee and Caesarea. What better place to worship our Lord Jesus than the land of Israel? Click here for more details about the tour.

Mount Arbel

After visiting Mount of Beatitudes and experiencing the Sea of Galilee boat ride, the group will visit Mount Arbel the next day. Mount Arbel known for its stunning view is located in the lower Galilee region that overlooks the Sea of Galilee and the areas where Jesus spent most of his earthly time ministering.

From the Arbel, we see it all! The view is panoramic. We see the green fields of wheat and barley, almond and fig groves and orchards of olive. We see sites of religious and historic importance on the shores of the Kinneret. On a clear day, we see the Golan Heights across the water, towering above the lake, and to the north, the snow-covered Mount Hermon.

Here we see pilgrims on the way to the top of Mount Arbel. The climb is not steep and it’s manageable. If you are worried about the climb, start with simple exercises now. We have about 6 more months to the tour!

Once you reach the top, pick a spot and just enjoy the serenity of the place. At the same time, try to spot for Tabgha, Capernaum and Bethsaida.

Dead Sea: The lowest point on Earth

The Dead Sea also known as the Sea of the Arabah or the Salt Sea is roughly 9.6 times saltier than the ocean which makes it difficult for animals to flourish. The mineral content is so high that nothing lives in it.

Because of this, anyone can float in the Dead Sea!

No holiday in the Holy Land would be complete without a photograph of yourself sitting bolt upright on the surface! Join in the fun and experience the acclaimed healing powers of the water and mud at the Dead Sea.

While you are on the way down to the Dead Sea, you may be able to spot some Ibex as well!

Sign up with us today and get ready for an exciting journey and an intimate time of praise and worship with our Lord Jesus in the land of His promise led by Hillsong UNITED!

Hillsong UNITED worshiping at Mount Arbel and Dead Sea. Enjoy and be blessed!