Capharnaum

The darker stones below were from a synagogue standing during Jesus' time.
A 2-story synagogue was built on top of the original foundation. Capharnaum was abandoned in the 11th century, then rediscovered in 1838.

The home of Simon Peter: Jesus would have stayed here frequently.

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The Magdala Center

The Magdala Center is located in Migdal, the home of Mary Magdalene, in the Galilee. It is the site of a synagogue dating from the time of Christ, one of only seven in the world dating from the Second Temple period. It is likely a place where Jesus would have visited as he traveled through the Galilee during his earthly ministry. It was discovered in 2009 when plans were underway to build a retreat house there. In the process, these historic ruins were uncovered.

The Magdala Stone is thought by some to be modeled after the Second Temple, which existed from 50 BC until its destruction in 100 AD. The menorah pictured here is the only one of its kind discovered to date. It is believed that this particular synagogue was destroyed during the period of Jewish revolt against the Romans in the years 55 to 70 AD.

Duc in Altum church is built adjacent to the ruins of the Magdala Center. It overlooks the Sea of Galilee and features this lovely mural. It depicts Jesus' healing of a woman who suffered from bleeding for many years when she touched the hem of his robe. (Luke 8:43-48)

Please do not reproduce this image without express permission from the Magdala Center. I am not the artist and while I would love to purchcase a copy of the mural to display in my home, it is the sole property of the Magdala Center.

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The Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes

The feeding of the 5000 is the only miracle performed by Jesus which is recorded in all four Gospels. This church in Tagbha, Israel is thought to be the site where it occurred. Unfortunately, the courtyard of the church was heavily damaged in a firebomb attack the year before our visit; repairs were under way. Graffiti in Hebrew script was spray-painted on the walls denouncing the worship of false idols. 16 juveniles were questioned and released without charges.

After the attack, leaders of the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths met at the site as a sign of unity, calling for the protection of the holy places.

Beneath the altar is the rock from which Jesus served 5000 people from five loaves of bread and two fish.

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The Church of Saint Joseph

The Church of Saint Joseph, located in Nazareth, was built over the site which many believe to be Jesus' childhood home. Legend also claims that Joseph's workshop was there, but this is doubted by most historians. This church is modest when compared to the neighboring Church of the Annunciation.

"Hic erat subditus illis." - "Here he became obedient to them."

One last thing... I won't be responding much to your photos and comments. I was viciously attacked by a patch of ice yesterday and will be working under a handicap for the next few weeks. Note, however, the manicure survived.

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Church of the Primacy of Peter

The Church of the Primacy of Peter is a small chapel on the shore of the Sea of Galilee in Tagbha, Israel. The church incorporates part of a 4th century church, and it marks the location of the third post-Resurrection appearance of Jesus. (See John 21.)

Jesus said, "Feed my sheep."

The Sea of Galilee viewed from the church

Mensa Christi: the Table of Christ... It is on this rock that Jesus served his disciples a breakfast of fish.

Feed my lambs... Take care of my sheep... Feed my lambs...

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