Sunday, September 16, 2012

Pilgrims act with compassion

Today's scripture and theme comes from Philemon 17-25 and what a great day we as pilgrims had in the opportunity to learn about - and demonstrate - compassion.

The day began at Goreme Open-air Museum, filled with stunning caves, rock-cut churches and amazing frescoes, all settled in the 4th century.  It is noted that St. Basil the Great helped to established the Christian community on this site and it is here that Orthodox Christianity was born.

After a nice, filling lunch we ventured over to the Kaymakli Underground City, where most of us folded ourselves in half to walk down a total of 4-stories in tunnels that were in some places no more than 3-feet tall  and 2-feet across.  Claustrophobic pilgrims need not apply! (those who recognized that these conditions were not for them enjoyed sipping some fresh orange juice whilst the rest of us sweated it out 40 feet underground)

Delighted with our journeys (and compassion shared/observed thus far), we made our final stop for the day at Ucretsiz Park - really just a wide spot in the road - but a SPECTACULAR area to view the Cappadocian landscape.  We shared in communion, a hike and some ice cream to wrap up a very full and fantastic day in our pilgrimage.

Everything has been captured in full digital splendor.  Click HERE to see a few of the best shots of the day.

We the pilgrims are truly enjoying our journey thus far and have plenty more planned for tomorrow.  Rumor has it that some of us will be participating in an activity that will have us soaring over the Cappadocian landscape...tune in tomorrow to find out where our journeys - and our learnings - will take us next!

BTDubs...we are taking pictures like C-R-A-Z-Y.  There are more on our Facebook page.  You can access them by going to our page called Turkey, Greece & Rome Pilgrimage 2012 (or just click on the hyperlink that we have created here for you)

2 comments:

  1. Loving your blog so far Jan.
    Hello to all of you and a special hello to my friend Lynne.
    Women of Faith was amazing this year. So sad that you all had to mis it, but then again, look where you are!!
    My thoughts and prayers are with you : )
    Marci

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  2. Thank you for taking us into the nooks and crannies of your trip! Love the cave shots! I thought I might see one of someone bent in half :) Glad the ice cream is getting inserted into your daily routine:) Please comment on the best! Will check out FB page too.

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