Searcy(LP) For many Christians, Israel is an astounding place to visit to learn about the Bible and to connect to God. An estimated three point four million people visit Israel each year. The capital of Israel is Jerusalem. Key points for tourists include going to Bethlehem, where Christians believe Jesus Christ was born, the City of Nazareth, where Christ grew up, and traveling to Jericho and Jerusalem.

While on vacation, Mrs. Cook, Department of Finance and Administrative Service Representative in Searcy, took a trip to Israel on spring vacation. She states “I was there for nine days and nights. The first three nights we stayed at the Sea of Galilee, the one that Peter and his disciples fished in. We went to the Jordan River where Jesus was baptised. Some of our group was baptised. I did that on the trip I took before.” Mrs. Cook and members of her church also went to the old City of Jerusalem, to visit outdoor markets, similar to the ones in the time period of Christ, where they ate falafels and many salads with various ingredients.

The Dead Sea, a salt lake, is the lowest point on the dry land on the border of Israel.  The Dead Sea contains many minerals that benefit the skin. The last location Mrs. Cook and her church group visited was the Garden Tomb, where Jesus was buried and is believed to resurrected, as his tomb is empty. Julie Ballard, Mrs. Cook’s friend that also went on the trip, felt it was excellent.

She states “I wanted to walk where Jesus walked. I loved being baptised in the Jordan River, and standing on top of Mount Carmel. After a short trip in the state known for the interesting places that played an important part in the history of Christianity, Mrs. Cook and Ballard learned more about their spirituality. Mrs. Cook states “I know now that when I read the Bible, I will be able to relate to the time better. I have been blessed to go. I thought the trip was wonderful.”