4th, July 2006
Jerusalem day
Today was the Jerusalem day, when the group loaded the bus in the morning to the Bethlehem checkpoint, where they went through the lengthy inspection procedures in order to get in to Jerusalem. While waiting for each other, the group witnessed the hardships that elderly and even sick Palestinians had to get through, in order to get healthcare in Jerusalem. They were met with the other bus on the other side of the terminal, and were driven to Damascus gate; the busiest of the seven gates for the old city of Jerusalem.
Old city of Jerusalem - Al-Aqsa Mosque
They walked through the via de la rosa, and headed to the Western Wall, and through to the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock. A knowledgeable guide gave an insightful presentation about the history of the place and the political situation in the city.
Muslim leader
Following this tour, the group met with the Grand mufti of Jerusalem and Palestine, Dr. Ekrima Sabri, who gave a briefing about the current situation in the old city, and the daily sufferings of the people, an aspiration for a Just Peace in this holy land.
Holy Sepulcher Church
After the interesting discussion with the mufti and our tour guide, the group were lead through the busy market and narrow roads to the Church of Holy Sepulcher, where they had a very informative tour inside of this holy place. After which, they were given some time to get souvenirs of this beautiful holy city.
Meeting the EJ YMCA G. S.
The group then walked all the way back to Damascus gate and all the way to the East Jerusalem YMCA, where they had lunch, and met with the General Secretary Mr. Andrea Batarseh, who gave a briefing about the work and programs of the YMCA and how it strives to serve the needs of the Palestinian community.
Cultural evening
Later, a smooth drive back to the Bethlehem checkpoint, inspection and another bus on the other side, got them back to the YMCA in Beith Sahour. They had some free time, before a very interesting cultural evening, with traditional dance and food to conclude yet another busy and very interesting day!
