Still in Jerusalem

The Garden Tomb

In Jerusalem you can go here, the Garden Tomb, where, it is believed, Joseph of Arimathea placed the Lord's body. Not far from here is, it is believed, Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified.

Waiting to enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

This ornately decorated area inside the church contains the Holy Sepulchre. People wait for hours to get in.

You can also go to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Since the 4th Century AD pilgrims have come here. The place is claimed sacred--and the actual place of Christ's crucifixion and burial--by Greek Orthodox, Oriental (Eastern) Orthodox, and Catholics.

Not all the people you see in this picture are tourists, you know. Many are devout--believers who count this spot as the climax of their pilgrimage.

No Anglicans or other Protestant groups have a "presence" here. Perhaps they believe the Garden Tomb is
the actual site. But that does not forbid those folks from coming here to see this place, of course.

There is much to see here, above and below ground level. Way below ground we were shown a spot where it looked like three crosses could have been anchored into the ground. Now, that may be confusing because we speak of the crosses being on Calvary's hill. But remember the tel concept.

Inside the church. Not sure why I took this picture. Seems I just liked the light in that spot.

From inside the church.

Also inside, down a level or two. I believe this is the Greek Orthodox "presence."

And what do you think?