On the Sea of Galilee

Next morning, after a light breakfast of toast and fresh fruit, we went outside to the amphitheater on the Mount of Beatitudes to hear Mass. It started to pour down rain just as we moved into the amphitheater, which fortunately, was roofed! So moving! Father Eric gave a superb sermon on the beatitudes and how we must live them.


Then, we boarded the bus to go to the Sea of Galilee for a boat ride in a rain storm. Two boats were attached to each other, and our entire group was able to get into both of these. Halfway across the sea, a lot of wind came up. The crewmen had to separate the two boats as waves rocked us up and down. Chairs and people were slung to one side, and then down the other, but we were safe. Finally, we reached shore. What a marvelous, spiritual adventure it was! This was the second highlight of our trip (the first was the Garden of Gethsemane). The Sea of Gailiee is truly an AUTHENTIC site. Eighty-five percent of Jesus' ministry took place here and on the shores.


The Sea of Galilee is really a lake, not a sea, and it lies below sea level. It is heart shaped and is 17 x 21" wide and 120' deep. Also called the Genasaret Sea and the Lake of Tiberia, it is the source of drinking water in Galilee. Rain is consequently very important here. Water is pumped from here to the desert regions by huge pipes along the highways for irrigation. One wonders what will happen when the water level is too low to accommodate the area.


Twenty seven species of fish are found in this lake; some are not kosher. Only fish with scales can be eaten by Orthodox Jews. Catfish is not kosher. Tilapia is known as St. Peter's fish, and we were told this is what is on the luncheon menu!