Something Smells Fishy

Today was another beautiful day in the Holy Land. We completed our stay in Nazareth and traveled to the Sea of Galilee where we begin the second half of our pilgrimage. The drive was easy. We started by ascending a mountain near the Sea Galilee. From this vantage we saw Tiberius, Mount Tabor, Mount of Beatitudes, Mount Hermon, Capernaum and other places. The view was beautiful as we reflected on Jesus’ ministry in the region.

Next, we travelled to Tiberias and celebrated Mass at St. Peter’s parish. Afterwards we saw a 1st century fishing vessel and took a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. The water was peaceful. On the ride we meditated on the events of Jesus calming the sea and walking on the water.

Once the ride was over, we ate lunch. Many of us ate “St. Peter’s Fish". This is local tradition in which the fish is cooked with the skin and head still intact. This is not everyone’s cup of tea, but those who ordered the meal liked it. The meal is certainly an experience of a life time.

After lunch we finished our travels for the day and arrived at our residence for the remainder of our stay in Galilee. Our accommodations are at a beautiful pilgrimage house on the Sea of Galilee. As I sat on the patio that overlooked the sea and the sun began to disappear, the birds chirped and fish began to jump out of the water, and a slight breeze blew. It was a peaceful time allowing me to quietly reflect on the day, absorb the events of this life-changing pilgrimage, and pray.