We were the 87 students who visited during summer term 2007. It was our pleasure to help the spring 2007 term reopen the center after a long period of closure. Some of us made friends and played soccer with the local Palestinian children. Some of us inspired all with our glorious vocal and musical talents. Some of us began the trip alongside friends and family members, but by the end had widened the circle to include all across our two classes. All of us were changed from a wonderful and powerful experience.
Our two classes were led by Byron and Patricia Merrill and Victor and V. Ann Ludlow who shared their wisdom and knowledge freely. They instructed us all through Egypt, Jordan, and Israel. We visited the pyramids and the Cairo archaeological museum before they knew where to put everything so it was just strewn around the hallways. We survived an overnight train to Luxor and drank the nile dry in the valley of the kings. We marveled at the ruins in Amman and walked the slot canyons of Petra. From the Red Sea, to the Sea of Galilee, we left no stone unturned through the holy land and sang our way through every church and cathedral.
Through all the adventure, heat, and laughter, we learned about the mission and life of Jesus Christ. We were examples of his light and love through our kindness with all we interacted with. He lived, he lives, and he is the reason we live. Next year in Jerusalem!
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