Three amazing experiences I had while at the YMCA in Bethlehem:
* visit Basilica of the Nativity and kneel at the place believed where Jesus was born
* visit YMCA Field of the Shepherds where its believed angels announced the birth of the Christ-child
* and feast on falafels, believed by me to be the best in the world.
On February 14, 2020 the YMCA OnPrinciple team spent the day in Bethlehem.
Today is Christmas Eve, and I’m reflecting on life in February and how our world has changed since then; of my time in Bethlehem and how the world has changed from that first Christmas Eve, and how the YMCA as a global movement still strives to embody the good news in fields and little towns, crowded cities and refugee camps.
For me, the presence of Christ is strong within the YMCA of the Holy Land.
The geography matters, the history is real, the suffering and hope are palpable.
The short time there was enough to infuse in me the desire to make the healing presence of Christ as real as possible in my YMCA-world.
Below are some pics from the visit to the YMCA at the Field of the Shepherds, the Basilica of the Nativity, and enjoying falafels with friends.
Visiting the Beit Sahour YMCA & Field of the Shepherds
Meeting with EJY leaders 
shepherds cave – front 
shepherds cave – back stairs 
OnPrinciple team 
the rest of the OP team! 
loitering 
wandering 
following in the steps of our OP shepherd Mike Bussey
Learn more about the amazing projects with the YMCA – it includes mental health support, support for youth with disabilities, rehabilitation work and more.
Someday soon, Lord willing, I hope to return with more YMCA friends. Let me know if you’d like to join us there!
Basilica of the Nativity – a few pics & notes:
On St. Valentines Day, standing next to St. Jerome, in front of Mother Mary perched above the basilica 
Main hall 
Entrance to sanctuary 
Right side of the sanctuary 
Nativity selfie! 
Authentic non-European Madonna & Child 
Entrance to sacred site of Christ’s birth 
Crowded cave 
Revered site of Christ’s birth
Falafels with OnPrinciple Friends!
Long awaited falafels… 
Delicious 
Recommended in the highest! 
OnPrinciple friends savoring falafels with me! 
No time to stop… 
A good chuckle…