One Day Tours – Discover with Gabi

Palm Sunday Walk & Birth Place of John the Baptist

Gabi Abu Rakabah — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 09:31:00 +0000

This itinerary aims to provide a meaningful journey along the Palm Sunday road, allowing for moments of reflection and connection with the events associated with Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, his emotions, and the beginning of the events leading to his crucifixion.

Exploring the palm sunday walk from top of mt of olives

This morning we drive to the summit of the “Mt. of Olives” to visit the “Chapel of the Ascension” where it is believed to be the place where Jesus ascended to heaven and the “Church of Pater Noster”. Walking the Palm Sunday Road, we will visit “the chapel of Dominus Flevit”. There we have a wonderful panoramic view of the city of Jerusalem.

Continue our walk towards the “Garden of Gethsemane”, located at the base of the Mount of Olives. This garden is where Jesus prayed on the night of his betrayal, and visit the “Church of all Nations” situated within the Garden, also known as the Church of Agony.

Drive towards "Ain Karem"

Begin your visit at the “Church of the Visitation”, believed to be the site where Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth after the Annunciation. While walking in the village we will visit “Mary’s Spring”, a natural spring believed to be where Mary drank water during her visit to Elizabeth. This site holds significance in Christian and Muslim traditions. We will keep exploring this beautiful village and walk towards the Church of “St. John the Baptist”, which commemorates the birthplace of John the Baptist.

We will end our tour by adding a sweet touch to our exploration of this historically and spiritually rich area in Jerusalem by enjoying “Gelato” at one of the best places in the country.

"On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, and the Mount of Olives will be split in two from east to west, forming a great valley, with half of the mountain moving north and half moving south.".

Zechariah 14:4

Way of the Cross, Western Wall & Mt Zion

Gabi Abu Rakabah — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 05:23:00 +0000

Discover the Via Dolorosa and the Church of the holy sepulchre

Begin your tour at the Lion’s Gate one of the ancient gates of the City Walls of Jerusalem heading towards “Pools of Bethesda” where Jesus performed miracles according to biblical accounts. Then we follow the Via Dolorosa (“Way of Suffering”), retracing the steps Jesus took carrying the cross. There are 14 stations along this route, each marking an event on the way to the crucifixion. Notable stations include the “Church of the Flagellation”, “Ecce Homo Arch” and “Station V” (where Simon of Cyrene helped Jesus carry the cross).

Arrive at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, considered the holiest Christian site. Explore this ancient church, which houses the sites of Jesus’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. See Calvary (Golgotha), where Jesus was crucified, and “The Stone of Unction”, where his body was prepared for burial and visit the “Aedicule”, the small structure within the church that houses the Tomb of Jesus. Continue exploring other chapels and significant areas within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Lunch – In the Muristan area in Jerusalem, located near the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, offers various dining options where visitors can enjoy a meal.

Continue with exploring the jewish quarter and mt. zion

A Short Walk to the “Western Wall”, a remnant of the ancient Jewish Temple, is a significant religious site for Jews worldwide. It’s open 24/7 for prayers and contemplation. You can touch and leave notes in the wall’s crevices. Explore the nearby Jewish Quarter, filled with historical and religious sites like the “Hurva Synagogue” and “The Cardo“ Stroll through this reconstructed ancient Roman street, now a bustling marketplace offering Judaica and souvenirs.

Proceed to “Mount Zion”, a site significant in various religious traditions, offering spiritual pilgrimage opportunities. Many important sites adjacent to each other. Like the “Room of the Last Supper” where we will reflect on the Last Supper’s significance in Christian faith then just in the lower floor is “King David’s Tomb” where according to Jewish traditions King David was buried. Then we walk through one of the most beautiful alleys in Jerusalem towards “Dormition Abbey church” and contemplate the significance of the Virgin Mary’s dormition (falling asleep).

NOTE: This itinerary covers major religious sites, historical landmarks, museums, and local markets. Depending on specific interests or time constraints, adjustments can be made to accommodate different preferences or additional attractions in and around Jerusalem region.

Psalm 122:6:

"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May those who love you be secure.'"

A Day Along the Sea of Galilee

Gabi Abu Rakabah — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 09:33:00 +0000

A day around the sea of galilee

Get ready for an awe-inspiring journey through the footsteps of Jesus. Join us on this profound spiritual expedition, where ancient scriptures come alive and history merges with spirituality.

Arrive in Tiberias, the picturesque town nestled on the shores of the tranquil “Sea of Galilee”. Experience the serenity of the “Mount of Beatitudes”, where Jesus delivered his timeless Sermon on the Mount. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views while contemplating the powerful teachings that continue to resonate through the ages. Step into the biblical stories as we visit “Capernaum”, the pivotal town where Jesus performed miracles and taught in the synagogue. Explore the ruins and let the ancient stones whisper tales of extraordinary events. At the “Church of the Primacy of Saint Peter” in Tabgha, stand in contemplation at the site believed to be where Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection.

Having lunch at a local restaurant that specializes in serving St. Peter’s Fish.

Sail across the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee aboard a “traditional Wooden boat”, retracing the paths where Jesus walked on water and calmed the storm. Experience a profound connection as you absorb the serenity of this holy site.

Time Permits - Visit to Nazareth

Depart from Tiberias, embarking on a pilgrimage to Nazareth, the revered hometown of Jesus. Visit the “Basilica of the Annunciation”, a monumental site commemorating the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking architecture and the spiritual resonance of this divine encounter.

Step into the past at “Nazareth Village”, a living museum offering a vivid portrayal of life in a 1st-century village.

'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will send you out to fish for people.' At once they left their nets and followed him.".

- Mathew (4:18 -20)

Jericho, Jordan River Baptismal Site, and Dead Sea

Gabi Abu Rakabah — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 09:33:00 +0000

Explore the holy trinity of biblical sites: Jericho’s ancient history, the baptismal site in the Jordan River, and the healing waters of the Dead Sea. Reconnect with faith and history on this unforgettable journey.”

A Pilgrimage Through Jericho, Jordan River Baptismal Site, and the Healing Dead Sea

Depart early for Jericho, visiting ancient sites including “Tel Jericho’s” archaeological excavations, walk through ancient ruins, visit “Elisha’s Spring”, and enjoy scenic views of the “Mount of Temptation”. Reflect on the biblical significance of Jericho, known for the story of Joshua and the Battle of Jericho.

Travel to the “Baptismal Site of Jesus in the Jordan River”, a significant spiritual site.

Afterward, continue to the “Dead Sea” for relaxation, floating in its mineral-rich waters, and enjoying the unique landscape.

Note: On this day Qumran national park or Masada National park can be added to the program in Dead Sea Region.

After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.4 ” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’[b]”

- Mathew (4:3 - 4)

Bethlehem’s Sacred Sites

Gabi Abu Rakabah — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 09:34:00 +0000

Join us on a profound journey, from the majestic ruins of “Herodium” and the peaceful Shepherd’s Field to the holy grounds of Bethlehem, where the story of Jesus’ birth unfolds. Experience the essence of faith and history.

Pilgrimage of Faith: Exploring Herodium, Shepherd's Field, and Bethlehem's Sacred Sites

Depart early for “Herodium”, located about 12 kilometers south of Jerusalem. Explore Herodium, King Herod’s fortified palace and fortress, known for its historical and archaeological significance. Visit the remains of the palace, the mausoleum, and the hilltop fortress.

Proceed to “Shepherd’s Field”, traditionally believed to be where the shepherds received the angelic announcement of Jesus’ birth.

Maqluba is a hearty and delicious dish that embodies the rich flavors of Palestinian cuisine and makes for a satisfying meal, perfect for experiencing traditional Palestinian flavors during your lunch.

Journey to Bethlehem, situated a short distance from the Shepherd’s Field in Beit Sahour city. Visit the “Church of the Nativity”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in the world, built over the traditional site of Jesus’ birth.

Explore Manger Square and the “Church of St. Catherine” adjacent to the Nativity Church.

Optionally, visit the “Milk Grotto”, a site believed to be where Mary nursed Jesus and the “Olive Wood Factory”, and do our shopping from the Christian families in Bethlehem.

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."

Micah 5:2