MOUNT OF BEATITUDES

Our guests from abroad whom we had the pleasure to entertain this last weekend are Christians. Therefore of course they have been very eager and interested to see some of the Holy Christian Sites in Israel. Among other places near the Sea of Galilee my husband took them to the Mount of Beatitudes to visit the Roman Catholic Church of Beatitudes. It is located on a low hill on the northwestern shore near Tabgha and Capernaum. Overlooking the lake the location presents a fantastic view on its waters and the distant hills and mountains on the opposite side. The church is maintained by the Franciscan Order.

 According to Christian tradition it is possible that this is the actual site of the Sermon on the Mount. The beautiful church is built in Byzantine style from black basalt and white limestone and the octagonal shape of it represents the eight Beatitudes given by Jesus to his disciples.

Jesus blessed in Matthew 5:3-10: ' the poor in spirit, they who mourn, the meek, they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure of heart, the peacemakers, and they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness.' 

No matter what are your religious beliefs this scenic place with its wonderful gardens and quiet and peaceful atmosphere is inviting you to enjoy it!