IST 2005

"Dear parents and friends.

Greetings from Yerushalyim!

As we are about to leave for Roded and Ein Tzurim, we reflect on our first week in Jerusalem and some of the magical moments we have so far encountered.

On entering Jerusalem, we were taken to the lookout point with a panoramic view of the Holy City. I loved watching the expression on our students faces as they approached the Kotel and in some cases touched the stones for the very first time.

The next day we walked the ruins of the area surrounding the Temple Mount, and Kotel prescient. How amazing to touch the very same paved roads and steps of 2000 years ago. Underground, we touched the foundation stones that stood uncovered for generations upon generations as we walked the tunnels that carried water to ancient Yerushalayim.

And then again: the old city, with its tranquil beauty - history made real.

Of course, the thrill of Ben Yehuda Street on Motzei Shabbat with it's thriving, pulsating rhythms reminded us all that here is Israel today - young vibrant, alive and throbbing with life.

As one of our children said: "it's totally awesome."

I will long remember the expressions on their faces when they felt this heartbeat as the "eternal city" came alive with youth, vigor and promise.

Yesterday we retraced the steps of those young warriors who captured Ammunition Hill and then Jerusalem, bringing the city home. How incredible to be here to see it all; to soak up every fibre of its being – its soul.

Thank you for sending your children. It is an absolute privilege being with them – and working with them. Their respect, manners, cooperation make it all worthwhile. We love watching their 'sense of wonders' and seeing everything there is to see through their eyes- as if for the first time.

Regards, Roy Steinman"

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Leaving Australia - Sydney Airport