Monday July 19

Shalom from Jerusalem! Today, we did so many fun, interesting and inspiring things, including exploring the Kotel Tunnels, experiencing the Western Wall, sloshing through the water tunnels under the City of David, and spiritually bringing in Tisha B’ Av.
First, we walked past the Kotel and went into the tunnels. It was very exciting! Our group looked at a model of the Temple Mount while Jared, our tour guide, taught us the turn of events of how the Temple was built. Next, we walked down along the western edge of the Kotel and strolled through many twisting tunnels and learned about how the walls were built. One of the things that struck us was the details that King Herod specified for the bricks that were used. After some reflection and discussion, we visited the Western Wall. It was fascinating to see the different people there and their individual ways of marking the moment. Each of us took some time to personally experience the site ourselves. It was great to see and touch the place where which has been so meaningful to so many.
During lunch, we got acquainted to the “City of Gold,” by seeing a female Israeli combat soldier unit having a lunch break together, drinking iced tea with Hebrew labels, and having to—surprise!—speak Hebrew.
Afterwards, went over to the City of David. We went into the theater to see a quick 3-D movie about the growing of Jerusalem and the reign of King David. Next, we learned about the city’s spring house and actually saw it! It was amazing, and the adults and the kids learned so much! Then we went in the water tunnels! We had to wear short pants and waterproof shoes! We walked through the tunnels in the dark (with flashlights and glow sticks) for about a half an hour. It was an adventure! At some points, the water was very high, almost to our waists! Also, sometimes the walls were very close and the ceilings were very low! Sorry, tall people! While we were going through the tunnels, we sang a wide range of favorite songs – including some tunes you would recognize from Shabbat services mixed with folk songs and pop songs with “water” in the title! We all had a great and memorable time.
Next, after a break in our rooms and dinner, we strolled down to a park and met up with another congregation. We read the Book of Lamentations at sunset to welcome Tisha B’ Av in a beautiful promenade overlooking the city, then went back to our hotel for a good night’s sleep.

- Abbie Leonard