Shabbat Shalom!

Only a bunch of real Church nerds would think this was a cool picture. But I think this is a really cool picture! This was how Frs. Steve, Carl, and I initiated the sabbath after a long week of studies: relaxing with a cold beer with good friends on the roof next to the neo-romanesque Church here at St. Stephen's. It also seemed an appropriate way to celebrate what Fr. Carl called "First Vespers of the 4th of July." I'm drinking a Palestinian Beer called Taybeh - a little sweeter than I usually like but it is cold and refreshing. We are the roof of the 1 story building between our residence and the Church. The only light for our little party was the lights that illuminate the beautiful Church at night.

This was a good end to a busy day that began with Mass at 8 AM, followed by a full morning of class (this time focused on Jesus' controversies witht he religious leaders of his day), participating in the Franciscan procession on the Way of the Cross this afternoon, and attending the celebrations for the beginning of the Sabbath at the Western Wall this evening. It was another busy and enlightening day.