Just outside the gates of Jerusalem, the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayerd on the night before His crucifixion, is one of the most revered sites for Christians visiting the Holy Land.

Our tour guide explained that the ancient olive trees in the fenced-off garden have been there since the time of Christ. “Even if there is a fire, the olive tree begins to grow again,” te told us. The olive tree is one of the symbols of Jerusalem and you can find it on the blue-and-white pottery that tourists love. The trees are planted throughout the city.

The steep steps up the front of the nearby church take visitors into a darkened sanctuary. The mood is somber since this church conveys the sorrow that Jesus felt on the night before He died.

The Latin inscription above the massive front door speaks of the tears and clamoring of the faithful.