Day 15 - July 5, 2008

Our last day began with a quiet excitement. This was because it was our last day and Brother Gunnerson had saved the best for last. Walking around the Garden of Gethsemane we were able to ponder the truth that the Savior had suffered for each and every person who has ever lived on this earth. Even though there was a busy road just to the side of this site it was unbelievably quiet and peaceful.

A little way up the road visitors can walk through the Orson Hyde Memorial Garden. The garden overlooks the Old City of Jerusalem. Here we took a few moments to have a short meeting with hymns and words from Brother Gunnerson. We discussed the importance of understanding and respecting different religions. Testimonies were shared and all were uplifted. We strolled down the walks and took pictures of the beautiful surroundings.

Racing to the Jerusalem Center for church we were reminded that our bus driver’s nickname is “fast Eddie.” We arrived in record time to find our prayers answered as we just barely made it in time for the sacrament. It was fast and testimony meeting. A new group of students had just arrived at the Jerusalem Center. We were able to relate to some of their experiences.

After Sacrament meeting we boarded the bus and headed to Bethany for a dip in Lazarus’ tomb. Lunch again consisted of Falafel, and a reminder to those who prefer other foods that this was our last chance to munch on this Mid-eastern treat.

A short walk from lunch brought us to the Garden tomb. As soon as we entered, we could feel this was a special place. The garden is well kept with many outdoor benches and areas set up for groups to meet and worship. Our guide was a sweet British man who shared his beautiful testimony of the Savior’s death on the cross and resurrection. He didn’t claim straight forward that this was the tomb, but showed us many facts that strongly lead to this spot. We know it was in a garden next to the place of the Skull outside a city gate. This was an ancient garden, right outside Damascus gate, and next to the small mound that looks like a skull. Crucifixions always took place along a major road and here the main road leading to Jericho runs parallel to the garden. We know Joseph of Arimathea was a rich man whose tomb would have been large and spacious. This is the only tomb of it’s grandeur our guide has seen. Also, when Mary entered the tomb, Mark writes that she entered and looked to the right. This tomb has the mourner’s room right as you walk in and the place to lay the bodies is unusually to the right instead of straight ahead. There are two places to lay bodies. One has an extra alcove carved at the base of the bed to make more room for someone’s feet. The other bed has never been used or completed, showing that this is a new tomb. Many facts point to this tomb. Above and beyond all of these was the undeniable feeling. The majestic feeling that was beyond anything felt at any site thus far. This was hallowed ground. This was the place where the Son of God was buried and rose again on the third day, bringing to the world life from His death, removing all sorrows, and opening the portals for all God’s children to return to Him. These feelings were powerful and unmistakable. We walked into the tomb and enjoyed the sweet peace there.

A short testimony meeting was shared and a few quotes expressing Latter-Day prophet’s feelings about this place and the events here. This officially ended our tour.

After a quick shopping spree in the old city, a delicious dinner, and an awards ceremony, we frantically are packing for our long excursion tomorrow. We are excited to see you all again!

Love,

your family and friends returning from the Holy Land