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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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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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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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.

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.

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!

If you have been following us, you would know that the TBN Hillsong Worship Experience Tour 2017 is open for registration! Or you have heard about it but still undecided?

Follow us as we share about the various significant sites in Israel that you will be visiting.

This unique tour will be taking place from 18 April to 28 April 2017. This tour will lead you in the footsteps of Jesus as you step into the pages of the Bible and will also give you the opportunity to worship God in Jerusalem, Galilee and Caesarea. Click here for more details about the tour.

Today we bring you to the place where the famous Sermon on the Mount was preached.

Mount of Beatitudes

The Mount of Beatitudes is believed to be the setting where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.

Matthew 5:3-11, NKJV

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
⁴ Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
⁵ Blessed are the meek,
For they shall inherit the earth.
⁶ Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
For they shall be filled.
⁷ Blessed are the merciful,
For they shall obtain mercy.
⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart,
For they shall see God.
⁹ Blessed are the peacemakers,
For they shall be called sons of God.
¹⁰ Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
¹¹ “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.”

The word “Beatitudes” originates from the Latin word “Beatus” which means “Blessed“, the prefix of each verse as seen above.

As you walk down the plantation through a dirt road, marvel at the beautiful landscape and expansive Sea of Galilee views from Mount of Beatitudes. Within sights are the scenes of many of the events of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee.

“And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. Then He opened His mouth and taught them...” – Matthew 5:1-2, NKJV

Have you ever wondered how the multitudes could hear Jesus even without the technology of microphone and speaker?

When you are there, do a role play where one of you climb up the hill and read out the Sermon on the Mount. You will be surprised how clear the voice travels down to where you are! God’s creation is simply amazing!

Depending on the time you arrive, you may also catch the beautiful sunset as you walk back to your coach.

Come and experience being present at the sites where Jesus preached, walked and performed miracles. Photos can never bring out the true beauty of Israel!

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

Hillsong UNITED worshiping on the Mount of Beatitudes. Enjoy and be blessed!

If a tour to Israel is something you would like to consider, we invite you to join us at the TBN Hillsong Worship Experience Tour 2017. This unique tour will be taking place from 18 April to 28 April 2017 . This tour will lead you in the footsteps of Jesus as you step into the pages of the Bible and will also give you the opportunity to worship God in Jerusalem, Galilee and Caesarea. Click here for more details about the tour.

Follow us over the next few weeks as we share about the various significant sites in Israel that you will be visiting.

The Old City of Jerusalem

The glorious charm of the Old City of Jerusalem that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The Old City brims with opportunities for you to connect with the city’s magnificent past, history, culture and spirituality. Originally built by King David in 1004 B.C.E., the Old City has always been considered the center of the world. Ancient maps show the three continents known at the time: Europe, Asia, and Africa with Jerusalem at their center. As a pilgrim, walking through the narrow streets and alleys within the Old City, you are passing through history and tracing the footsteps of Jesus, Him being at the center of it all. The very walls and stones of the Old City relate many time-honored biblical tales. The Old City is home to many significant biblical sites including Temple Mount, Western Wall and Via Dolorosa.

Besides the city’s rich history, the captivating beauty of the Old City also comes from its colorful markets and the maze of pathways that leave many wanting to explore more.

A Pilgrim Song of David

Psalm 122, MSG
1-2 When they said, “Let’s go to the house of God,” my heart leaped for joy. And now we’re here, O Jerusalem, inside Jerusalem’s walls!
3-5 Jerusalem, well-built city, built as a place for worship! The city to which the tribes ascend, all God’s tribes go up to worship,
To give thanks to the name of God — this is what it means to be Israel. Thrones for righteous judgment are set there, famous David-thrones.
6-9 Pray for Jerusalem’s peace! Prosperity to all you Jerusalem-lovers! Friendly insiders, get along! Hostile outsiders, keep your distance!
For the sake of my family and friends, I say it again: live in peace! For the sake of the house of our God, God, I’ll do my very best for you.

You want to come to Jerusalem because at the Mount of Olives you can behold the city spread out before you. God said of it, “My Name shall be there” (1 Kings 8:29). You want to be on that spot where the Angel of the Lord stopped Abraham from laying his hand on his son Isaac. You want to stand at Golgotha and behold an empty tomb. You want to walk up the steps leading to the Temple where Jesus once climbed. Because this is what you seek, this is what leads you to Jerusalem.

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

Catch a glimpse of Hillsong UNITED worshiping at the Old City of Jerusalem and Golan Heights.

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June 11-13, 2016

Date in Hebrew calendar: 6^th and 7^th of Sivan (May-June)

Scripture references: Leviticus 23:16; Exodus 23:15-19; Acts 2

Shavuot is known as the Feast of Weeks or Feast of Pentecost. It celebrates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai and commemorates the wheat harvesting in the Land of Israel.

Shavuot concludes the daily counting of the “omer” barley offering at the Temple which begins on the second day of Passover.

For Christians, Pentecost celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the first disciples with tongues of fire and other languages and marks the birth of the church.

On Shavuot, it is customary to decorate the homes and synagogues with branches and flowers to remember the blossoms of the Land of Israel. It is a widespread custom to stay up the entire night learning Torah. At synagogue services on Shavuot morning, the Book of Ruth is read to describe the grain harvest in ancient days. Cheese cakes, honey cakes, and other dairy food are eaten to remember the Land of Israel as it was described as a “land flowing with milk and honey”.

It is a Jewish tradition to eat dairy foods on the first day of Shavuot. Just to name a few reasons:

• The receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai occurred on Shabbat when slaughter and cooking are prohibited. So the only alternative was to eat dairy which requires no advance preparation.
• The sweet nourishing value of Torah is likened to “honey and milk under your tongue” (Song of Songs 4:11). Many Jewish families, before discussing Torah at home, will place a drop of honey on each child’s tongue so the children will always associate the learning of the Torah as sweet.
• The Hebrew word for milk is chalav. The numerical value of chalav is 40. The Jews eat dairy foods on Shavuot to commemorate the 40 days that Moses spent on Mount Sinai receiving instruction in the entire Torah and the 40 years the Jews spent wandering the desert.