Nazareth II

It has become a luxury to have extended time in Nazareth - not so many tourist buses here, though plenty of souvenir vendors. Breakfast included pita pizza/ cheese, herbs, vegetables and an omlet, coffee, fruit, olives/hummus. Most of the sites of interest are in walking distance - tried the local sweets - yummy. A place called Nazareth Village has been developed in the past 10 years (I had visions of Bible school) but it is effective in a quietly researches and authentic way - the actors are, after all, local men, women and children. The location belongs to the English-founded hospital and is adjacent to the YMCA and is established by local people (and a foundation in Mishewaka, Indiana!) The scenes are related to parables - winnowing wheat, a wime press, the carpenter's house, etc. The man who had the idea noticed that many tourists were coming to town looking for a way to connect with Jesus - and only saw the fancy churches and middle eastern architecture - so here is his idea, well researched, and not pushing any particular flavor of Christianity.
I also found the synagogue/church - where a Byzantine church was built over the site of the oldest synagogue - maybe a location for Jesus' sermon where "a prophet is not accepted in his own town." He was, after all, the son of Joseph, so the townspeople did not expect him to say that prophecies were fulfilled in their hearing."
The Fauzi Azar Inn, where I am staying, is managed by a young man who has helped establish The Jesus Trail - a four-day walk between Nazareth and Capernaum on the Sea of Galilee - they can transport luggage and arrange low-cost accomodations along the route. If I'd known about it earlier, I think I would have given it a try. Something about walking along streams, through fields on a marked trail, with the wildlife, is appealing in the springtime.
So I'm glad I did not miss Nazareth. This evening will be cool and relaxed. I am sleeping on a lower bunk in a "mixed" dorm with 10 beds. Earplugs come in handy. The bathroom is clean and convenient. The price is right.