Christmas Day began with an Arabic service at The Basilica of the Enunciation, the largest church in the Middle East. The service had me reflecting on the Latin services I attended as a child with my family of eight in our Catholic Church in Canmore, Alberta.
People come to Nazareth to see the churches. With map in hand, Christmas seemed like a great day to search out other churches in the community.
St. Joseph’s Church, built in 1914 is where Joseph once had his carpentry workshop. A staircase leads down underneath the modern-day church to where a cistern and series of storage pits can be seen. This underground level dates from the early 1st century AD.
Cats are absolutely everywhere. This little guy was particularly friendly. Most though are easily frightened.
This Chapel is dedicated to Sister Theresa of Calcutta.
The White Mosque is a traditional Ottoman Mosque from the 19 century.
The Synagogue Church is the traditional site where Jesus read from the Torah scrolls. It is snuggled away in the market district and belongs to the Greek Catholic Melkite community. This one was a real challenge to locate.
Anglican Church of Nazareth.
Mary’s Well (also known as the Virgin Fountain) waters are said to possess miraculous healing powers. Water was not evident here but the well water is bubbling in a crypt at St. Gabriel’s Church behind the well.
The smells and visuals in the market place are always a delight.
End of the day at St. Gabriel’s Orthodox Church.
BeverleyandJohn's2018Travels 