Day 2-Sightseeing in Acco

---

We all got moving bright and early this morning. After breakfast we went to the Tunisian Temple in historic Acco north of Haifa. The mosiacs were breathtaking and one of the founders of the temple was very welcoming and charming. He asked us all to consider moving to Israel because "Peace will come to Israel once all the Jews come to Israel". The mosaics in the temple are a chronicle of Jewish history from biblical times thru the Holocaust. They want to make sure that our history is all captured in long-lasting stones.

In the old city of Acco, we saw the remains of a Crusader era site and the Turkish baths. However, the kids were more interested in the stray cats that were roaming the area. Rebecca and Carly both seemed to be "Cat Whisperers" and bonded with some of the strays. Lucas became their official photographer and had a cat pose just for him. We had local cuisine in an Arabic street market that was great.

The most moving part of the afternoon was the visit to the old British prision. In the room that some Jewish freedom fighters were hung for a prision breakout, we all sang the Hatikvah led by Cantor Rica, just as they did before they were hung.

Tonight we go to the local reform temple for Shabbat

- Caroline & Jeff Silver

---

Comments

[laura Rodgers]

Saturday-Valentines Day
We are having the most wonderful experience so far on the tour with cantor Rica. Today we woke up and had a healthy and delicous breakfast overlooking the harbor of Haifa. We then took a nice walk in glorious sunshine(it's in the 70s here today!) to visit Yael's home in Haifa. Though it's Shabbat the city is bustling with families taking walks and visiting the playground across the street from our hotel. Richard and I played for a while at the playground before the walk and felt totally comfortable around our Israeli counterparts--all speaking hebrew of course. He's picking out letters on signs and street signs as we go. Last nights service at Congregation Or Hadash was moving and beautiful with mostly music throughout. The cantor joined their rabbi on the bema which was a thrill. Then we had a lovely dinner with members of their synegogue as well as the rabbi and his wife. Afterwards they showed us their well equiped bomb shelter a few flights below the sanctuary. Their attitude is positive and amazing but realistic. It was a bit frightening but also very informative. Their rabbi told us that he had been conservative and switched to reform when women weren't allowed to be ordained in the conservative movement...very impressive and brillient man. He spoke eloquently after our dinner. That's it for now. The trip is fun and informative and the whole group is geling beautifully!!

[Cathy]

sending valentines day love to you all
How beautiful and inspiring and comforting to be able to read about your trip while you are still in action, rather than having to wait until you get home. Your day sounds awesome -- although i must admit to more than a twinge of jealousy, not the least of which is due to your sunny weather. Richie looks so happy and comfortable with all of the kids. Hugs to him and to everyone in your group.