The 9th of March we traveled to the Red Sea with the students and snorkeled at Eilat. On the way, we saw Masada and the Dead Sea. The next day we went on the Rampart walk on top of the Old City wall. It was interesting to see the city from another view and look down into the city streets.
On March 12th we learned we needed to leave Jerusalem and return home. It was such sad news to all involved. Last night we learned all the students are leaving, as well. The sadness was overwhelming and their time was very limited so they started trying to squeeze all of Jerusalem in that they could.
Life in the BYU Jerusalem Center was always busy and enjoyable.The students were very motivated to keep busy and active. They had intramural volleyball and basketball going on and Ted Talks---all student motivated. One day a few of the students asked if they come over and make some cookies. We had so much fun with them. They missed baking cookies!
We had several tour groups come to the center from the United States the first few weeks of March and then learned tour groups would not be entering Israel, temporarily. It was hard to call the tour companies and make it known to them. It was so disappointing, as one can imagine. We also had to tell them no guest were invited to come to Sacrament Meetings.
Our mission has been difficult but amazing. We have been so privileged to learn about these countries, the history, people, different religions, food, customs and love for the people. We have seen sights that are history sights of the Old and New Testament, even the Book of Mormon. We once heard these words, "Bear your testimony every day and when necessary, use words." We tried to make that our goal even thought we could not share our verbal testimonies in either Iraq or Israel. Our appreciation for the Middle East and the difficult way of life for most of the people is humbling.
We will be released from our calling tonight and will forever be grateful for this experience.
We love you all---but love the Lord more......
Mom and Dad
Grandma and Grandpa
Ken and Joyce
Snorking at Eilat
Rampart Walk
King David's City
Eilat, Israel
Downtown Jerusalem
Cute students making cookies. They brought
us flowers.
Winter Semester at BYU Jerusalem Center 2020
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