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Hey Everyone! Today was our first full day here in Israel. Last night, it was SO humid and it was really hot. And today was really long, but we’re all having a lot fun. Just to mention a few things: First, this morning we all attended a service at St. George’s Cathedral. It was surprising how similar it was to our Sunday masses, except for you “ten-o’clockers” who sing. No music. But it was very close to the services we have back on Grand Island.

Second, we went through the Holocaust Memorial Museum which is called Yad Vashem. There were a lot of soldiers around… and Mrs. Dollendorf poked an Italian one. =] The museum was very insightful, but also very opinionated.

Third, in Bethlehem, we went to the Church of the Holy Nativity. We actually got to touch the precise spot where Jesus was born. It was pretty awesome, but it was way too crowded for our liking.

And finally, the tour through the Dheishah Refugee Camp. It was very moving in many ways. The people who live there are surrounded by very impoverished conditions. But, everyone we saw was very friendly towards us, which helped lift our spirits. Everyone seemed moved by that experience in one way or another.

We’re all having a great time, and we miss you all very much. We all can’t wait to continue our experience here in Israel, but are eager to see our family and friends again. We all hope that things are good back home!

Love,

Katie, Amy, Courtney, and the rest of the Pilgrims