Tuesday

We arrived Bethlehem yesterday at noon. Had a quick lunch and orientation. Then took a quick nap for about 30 minutes before heading out to Manger Square and Church of the Nativity. Then went to the Wiam Center for Peace and had dinner and heard stories of how peace work is currently being done today. Returned to our inn, at which there was room in the inn for us, by 8:30. Had a time of debriefing and got to lie down in a bed for the first time since early Sunday morning at 5 a.m. which is when we left.

Tuesday began with breakfast at 7. Then visited an Olive woodmaking and carving facility that supplies Ten Thousand Villages. Then visited Bethlehem Bible College. Then visited a paletinian refugee camp and heard many stories of life ina refugee camp. We say many bullet holes in walls and windows of houses and schools. The village is right next to the WALL. Israeli soldiers often come into the village to intimidate.

Spent the afternoon visiting the WALL and families whose lives have been devestated by it. Sat down with a farm family and heard them talk about the wall as the big trucks and caterpillars worked ont he wall a few hundred feet away. Was one time we were monitored by the Israeli secruity.

Visited a vilalge that is being surrounded by the wall. And another village surrounded by huge illegal Israeli settlements build on the hilltops. As these sttelements grow and expand every day, the palestinians are not allowed to build new houses, additions, or even repair their roof without a permit which is usually denied.

It is unbelievable that such a WALL can be built today. You woudl think that wewould have learned our lessons from history.

we then visited a restaurant and had dinner. The owners of the restaurant spoke with us afterwards and told us of the horrible affect the WALL has had on their business and their family. The grandmother, son and grandson spoke with us. Wish I coudl share more, but more later when we get home.

now back at our inn, had a debriefing and now time to get some rest. It is now almost 10:00 and breakfast is at 7 and a very full day again tomorrow.

Love you all very much!