"The Holy Sites"

  I have now gone into the Old City about four times. I've seen the major sites: the western wall, the temple mount, dome of the rock, the holy sepulcher church. Overwhelming is the best word to describe it all.  Today was my first field study into the Old City. So instead of walking around aimlessly and running into "holy sites" i actually followed and listened to a teacher/tour guide, which was very helpful.  But after a few sites and walking around in the blazing hot sun i got tired pretty fast and even starting losing interest.  Honestly it was very frustrating hearing about the church of the holy sepulcher.  This church is believed to be the site of the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ... I know it sounds crazy that i describe it as frustrating. You were probably thinking it would be more like an amazing, bring-you-to-your-knees experience.  That wasn't really the case for me, nor did i see anyone else on their knees.  The church has been fought over by four different christian groups. they all have their own little section of the church, and actually have fought over it so much that the key of the building was taken away from them and given to a muslim... I don't know all the details and not really in the mood to talk about it either. lol. sorry. i will when i learn more.

It was just very strange being in there.  There were candles everywhere, and hanging things with candles in them. Pictures, spot lights, glass boxes with i guess, "holy items" in them.  I boxed in rock, which is supposedly the rock where the cross stood... Not to mention the crowds and crowds of people all with their cameras.  There was this giant display of Jesus on the cross. And at the alter you could go up to it and stick your hand down this small opening and touch the rock of golgotha... so. i don't know. Maybe i haven't gotten my head around it all. Being where i am and everything.  I guess i just had a much different idea of everything that i'm seeing.  It just doesn't seem like a place Jesus would even be. Too much relics and strange superstitions i guess is a way to describe it.  I guess i still have a lot to learn though.