Crossing into Sinai

After a night of much needed rest, some awoke early to the sounds of barking dogs. I enjoyed a morning meditation on the breezy terrace. We had coffee in the lounge and then we went to a buffet-style breakfast that was plentiful and beautifully presented.

We had free time after breakfast to go relax and tour the resort. Some went to the beach, while others headed to the waterslide at the pool. The splendor and serenity that is the Red sea is difficult to describe. I marveled at the coldness of the water and the silkiness of the sand. As one colleague noted, “This gives a different meaning to sinking sand!”

Before lunch, we prayed and participated in a time of reflection on the events of the first week. Several pilgrims shared heartfelt, transformative times they are experiencing. We were encouraged to “step out and go deeper” and to engage in the cultural and spiritual sharing of diversity.

As we crossed into Sinai, we had a mini-lecture on the bus about the historical and theological questions that surround the exodus traditions. One of my favorite quotes by Dr. Marzouk is “microcosm of order in the midst of chaos,” in reference to building the tabernacle by Mount Sinai.

When we arrived at St. Catherine’s the late afternoon and early evening were upon us. After settling in our rooms we had time to mingle and shop. Dinner followed as well as music, dancing, and a birthday celebration. Then we were off to bed as we prepare for our journey to the monastery of St. Catherine and Mount Sinai (Moses Mount) to visit the summit. I am not excited to leave at 1:00 a.m. However, to experience sunrise on the mount, I am grateful and humbled to bear witness to the extravagance that is the creation.

–Donna A. Graves
2nd year-Mid Level
MDiv/M.A.C.E.