This is a BIG guide. PLEASE WAIT for all the graphics in this guide to load (300k), then select print from your browser menu-- about 20 pages to print --this is a detailed outline for a BIG program.

If you have Internet Explorer 5.x....you can save this document with the graphics by selecting FILE, SAVE AS and selecting Web Archive. This will create a folder of this document from which to print later.

You might also just use your mouse to COPY SELECTED TEXT from this webpage. Using your mouse, select text and then select 'copy' from the Edit Menu from your Browser's taskbar, then 'paste' it into a wordprocessing document and print.

What's in this Guide...

== This Outline tells you what's in every photobubble, audio hotspot, info button, and narration for every section of A Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus.

== This Outline contains study questions at the end of each section.

== This Outline shares some important Footsteps lesson planning ideas, tips and technical info.

== This outline contains THREE SAMPLE LESSON PLANS located at the end of this guide.

 Introduction

Footsteps is a unique multimedia collection of images that follows the events of Christ's life in the Holy Land. Users will visit the Holy Land as they would see it today through dramatic 360 degree "photobubble" technology of the sites. Part of the "hook" of this program is the way students can move through it. It's usually pretty cool. Each photobubble and regular photo also contains a number of "hotspots" for the user to find and click on to hear related scripture, historical, traditional and cultural information, and enter into new scenes via "secret passageways. Even the menus are unique, especially the main "stained glass windows" menus. Wherever you are, take a look around -- left, right, up, down and diagonally. Zoom in on special sites.... Step on the shores of Galilee, turn around in the empty tomb. Too cool.

Quick Tips:

• Think of Footsteps as a CD to 'illustrate' your lessons with, not as a complete "lesson CD" unto itself.
• Footsteps is like an illustrated guide to Jesus sites in Israel as you would find them today.
• Use the ESC button to bypass the opening intro.
• Look for the main controls to the program always at your feet in every 360 degree photobubble.
• Roll your mouse (not drag) down below the image on screen to reveal a helpful toolbar.
• Turn down the volume when you don't want to be interrupted by the music and narration.

Main Tips and Teaching Observations

Kids are a "click-happy" lot, so are adults. Unless a teacher is right there encouraging discussion with the kids and youth, you'll need a substitute -- the good old worksheet. They won't mind using one because they'll be having such a good time using the program. A worksheet will help them stay on course (a bit). Sample worksheet questions are suggested at the end of each Footsteps outline section.

The age range on the program is from about age ten and up, HOWEVER, many churches are reporting success with even younger children by being selective in their approach or taking kids on a teacher-led tour.

I have used Foosteps many times with my younger grades to show them an image related to their lesson or story. For example, grades 1 and 2 were studying the story of Jesus walking on the water. We used the story from Play & Learn and the video clip from LIfe of Jesus, then let them explore the shores of the Sea of Galilee in Footsteps. They loved it!

Preview the program. Some parts are better than others. Some are more age-appropriate than others. Some you can spend a good deal of time with. Others you might only be in for a few minutes.

The content of Footsteps parallels many of the same subjects found in other programs recommended by our ministry, especially the LIFE OF CHRIST CD, Disciple's Diary, Pathways Through Jerusalem, and to some extent the Life of Jesus CD, Amazing Expedition Bible, Bibleland.com. Bible Atlas and the Life Application Multimedia Bible also cover many of the same locations and stories from a slightly different angle. Thus, Footsteps could be one of several programs used by students during a lesson to "research" a subject in the life of Christ. Two sample lesson plans can be found at the end of this guide.

A Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus works well with other Jesus programs. This guide and the lesson plans at the end of it will give many examples. The latest example is the new OTHER "Walk" program: Walking in Their Sandals Bible atlas. It has many narrated VIDEO clips of Jesus locations. It also has many Jesus interactive map lessons, such as, "Jesus' baptism and temptation" which dovetail closely to the spectacular Batism and wilderness photobubbles in Footsteps. Put side by side, your kids can switch between computers/programs for a lesson that gets at these stories from many multimedia angles.

The stained glass window section in FOOSTEPS correspond closely to the Periods in the Life of Jesus section found in the DISCIPLE'S DIARY CD. Here's a simple lesson plan for using these two programs together....

First....have your students first view a section of the Periods in the Life of Jesus (found under the archway in the Disciple's Diary Archive). Then....have your students visit the area in A Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus that corresponds with the period or subject material in Disciple's Diary.

Example: In Disciple's Diary, "the Disciple" talks about Jesus and John the Baptist. Then the student can view a video "fly over" of the Jordan River explaining its significance to pilgrims. It ends at the traditional baptismal site showing folks being baptized. Footsteps has a Baptism of Jesus photobubble in His Early Ministry.

• Remember to view all software as a component in a lesson plan, not a replacement for one. Add Bible study, discussion and other activities.
• Realize that not every part of this CD will float your boat. Preview.

A special thanks to my daughter Robin, a veteran Bible computer labber. She was the first kid to enlighten this adult that Footsteps was "cool for kids, especially all those secret passages."

Our Footsteps Teaching Tips

Footsteps offers you and your students an intriguing way to explore the life of Jesus via virtual pilgrimage. A pilgrim is someone who takes a journey to a sacred place in order to remember and contemplate the events which took place there. Your job as teacher is to help them explore those memories and the issues surrounding the events. The unique way your students will explore makes the pilgrimage fun.

You may want to pick up on this theme of "pilgrimage"or sacred journey in your lesson design. Phrases such as "what could they see, feel, smell, taste and hear" could be part of your discussion strategy not only to learn the story but to experience it. Did you imagine the tomb would look like this? If you could touch this spot, walk this piece of ground, what would you be thinking to yourself? Touring Footsteps, students will begin to form mental pictures of the stories which will help in their retention of the material. At times the teacher will need to remind students that many of the locations are "as they appear today," or are "approximate" locations.

At times Footsteps is a lot of ruins and churches. Some kids are fascinated by this, others are not. More importantly you'll want to ask questions like, How have people expressed their devotion to Christ over the centuries, how is our church different or the same, how am I different? That "old stuff" has moved people for 2000 years to meditate on the life of Jesus, how does our "stuff" move us? What things do WE do to get close to Christ? And what about the mixture of the modern with the medieval and ancient which Footsteps is full of? These are potential points of discussion. Who WERE all these people? What motivated them? How did they choose to express their faith?

Experience indicates that kids and youth learn best with Foosteps when they have a "steering mechanism" to keep them from wandering and skimming too much. This mechanism can either be a teacher or a worksheet, or both. Kids are click-happy. We don't want to take the "happy" out of "click" so we've struck a balance in our lesson concept. At the end of each outlined segment, you'll see a sample list of QUESTIONS the kids could be hunting the answers to as they use that segment. Put some of them and your own on a worksheet and you've got a tool that slows them down enough to absorb the content. It is a time-tested approach found useful with other CDs. Our list is there to prime YOUR pump. After you browse the segment the kids will be browsing, create your own list. Use their answers as a basis for group discussion after they're done with the software.

Your main Footsteps lesson approach could be as simple as:
Brief -- See & Listen -- Debrief.
If you're doing a unit on the life of Christ remember that Footsteps dovetails quite closely with other programs in our catalog: the Life of Christ CD, Disciples Diary, Walking in Their Sandals Multimedia Bible Atlas, and parts of Pathways Through Jerusalem. There are a variety of approaches you may want to try. One of our teacher/reviewers has had great success simply "co-exploring" with his Jr. Highs --interjecting comments and asking questions as seemed appropriate as they browsed material in the CD. Experiment with different approaches to determine which style of use best suits your situation and skills.

What about all that "King James English" in this CD? Surprisingly, our evaluation and subsequent feedback indicate that the KJV didn't seem to phase the kids much at all most likely because it is "heard" not "read." I've found that older kids enjoy "that Shakespeare stuff" every once in a while. When things sound different, we sometimes listen better.

Ultimately, this CD succeeds when used properly because it attracts student attention, captivates their senses, and pours out biblical content. Of course, no software program can overcome poor planning, preparation and execution. The trick for the teacher and lesson materials is to find the balance between their excitement to explore this CD and the need to slow down, look, listen, and share. Hey, this is a new medium. Explore. Take your time. Most every multimedia program is different not only in content, but concept of use. What we learn by failing can become the secret to success. It may take you a class or two, or three until YOU get the hang of teaching with this program or any other. --Neil MacQueen

Footsteps Technical Notes

The box and case that the Footsteps CD comes in contains no real instructions other than installation info and a tech support number. Sunday School Software to the rescue! Here are some technical tips you may appreciate knowing:

• To skip the opening introduction (starburst and title sequence) press ESC. In the main "stained glass" menu area, hitting the ESC button will stop the automatic introductory remarks and automatic panning. ALT-Q is the command stroke to exit the program using the keyboard.
• If you hit any other keys during the introduction, it will freeze and you'll have to restart the program. Like most CD programs, it pays to be patient!
• Get to learn the difference between a "single click" and a "double click." Footsteps uses both. Over-clicking can cause "hiccups."
• Get to know your navigational & informational tools !!! Create a helpful handout for students and teachers.
• If the introductory video doesn't run, you need to install Quick Time from the CD to your computer.
• Want to PRINT part of a photobubble? Hit your printscreen button on your keyboard. Thenopen up any wordprocessing program and select "paste" from the edit menu. Viola! You can resize and add to it. This is a great way to make displays or handouts.

His Birth and Childhood

Begin Here: (and moving clockwise)

• Annunciation to Mary
• St. Joseph's Church
• Church of the Annunciation
• Bethlehem Manger Square
• Presentation at the Temple
• Flight to Egypt
• Home in Nazareth
• Jesus' childhood visit to Jerusalem

Annunciation to Mary (Nazareth Plaza) --360

Scene: Nazareth Plaza

Intro narration: About the sign of the fish and letters (I.c.t.h.u.s....Jesus Christ, Son of God)

Info Button: The function of angels in the Bible. Story of angel who appeared to Mary and Joseph.

Hotspots:

• Nazareth Today
• Church built over holy family's home
• Angel announces birth
• Christianity began here

Doorway: to St. Joseph's Church

Doorway: to Church of the Annunciation

Info Button: Poem about Joseph (so-so)

Click on stained glass windows for cultural info about engagement/betrothal.

*Make sure to look up at the windows for disciples.

Hotspots:

• Framed picture: What we know about Joseph.
• Altar: Joseph's home underneath.
• Cross: The Church honors Joseph's patience, faith and love.
• Floor: Hear Matthew 1, story of Joseph.
• Pews: About Joseph's carpenter tools.

Scene: Inside the Church

Intro: The Annunciation

Hotspots:

• Altar: Isaiah 6....."virgin shall conceive."
• Historical info about staircase

Doorway: To Lower Grotto --Photo

• Related Scripture about Elizabeth
• Historical info about 4th Century grotto.
• Built by Constantine 1400 years ago!
• Related Scripture: Prophecy of Micah about Bethlehem
• Historical info about 4 B.C. census
• Bethlehem means "house of bread"

Info Button: Archaelogists find ancient graffiti: "XE MARIA (Hail Mary)."

Scene: Manger Square

Intro: Continuation of birth story.

Info Button: Church spared destruction due to Persian looking Wisemen in mosaics.

Hotspots:

• 1400 year old church built by Constantine
• Related Scripture, the prophecy of Micah about Bethlehem
• Historical Info about the general census taken by Augustus
• Bethlehem means "house of bread"

Doorway: To the Cave of the Nativity and Three More Doorways

Doorway 1: To Shepherd Terrace --Photo

• Cultural info: Hillside livestock caves may have been the "stable."
• Luke 2

Info Button: Inns and Hotels at that time

Doorway 2: Wisemen w/Herod --Photo

• Who were the 3 Wisemen?
• Scripture about the 3 gifts.

Info Button: About the 3 Wisemen's gifts

Doorway 3: A Look at Silver Star --Photo

• Narration about Shepherds finding Jesus
• About the 14 pt. Star and inscription
• The lamps represent prayers.

• Jesus name means "Jehovah is Salvation"
• Prophets Anna and Simon praise infant Jesus
• Related scripture: Leviticus law about circumcision.
• Luke 2 scripture of the story.
• About the Holy Land Hotel Model of Temple

Info Button: Temple not finished in the time of Jesus.

*Cross reference to Pathways CD: Herod and Star Chasers CD Temple section.

Hotspots:

• 300 mile camel trip to Egypt info
• Killing of the innocents
• Hosea 11:1 "out of Egypt"
• Cultural info: dangerous travel conditions

Info Button: Herod's reputation for cruelty.

Doorway: Travel in the Desert..

• "Rachel Weeps" Killing of Innocents
• Cultural info: How people traveled in the time of Jesus.

Info Button: Traditional location of Jesus and his family in Egypt

Scene: Modern Nazareth

Intro: narration of angel's call to Joseph to return to Nazareth.

• Historical Info: Why Joseph settled in Galilee. About Herod's two sons.
• Luke 2 scripture: "He shall be called a Nazarene."
• Cultural info: Oil lamps and thatch roofs.
• Cultural info: What homes were like in the time of Jesus.

Scene: Jerusalem

Intro: Scripture narration of Jesus when he was 12 years old.

• Jesus visits Jerusalem during Passover
• Related info: About Passover and male obligations at festival.

Info Button: About the Festival of Passover. Description of matzah bread.

 Doorway: To Synagogue School at Temple -- 360

Intro: Narration of scripture of Jesus at Temple.

Related info: Age 12 & manhood

• Historical info: Role of Priests and a man's religious duties.
• Related info: Actions and Reactions to Jesus in this story.
• Young students today at Temple.
• The Torah means "guidance."

Info Button: A young boy's Bar Mitzvah makes him the "son of the commandment."

• What does the sign of the fish represent?
• What do its letters spell out in Greek?
• What do we know about Joseph?
• What does XE Maria mean in English?
• Who did Mary visit while she was pregnant with Jesus and what did Jesus do?
• Why didn't the invaders destroy the Bethlehem church?
• What does Bethlehem mean in Hebrew?
• What kind of stable might Jesus have been born in?
• Who were the three Wisemen?
• What do the three gifts represent?
• What do the lamps represent?
• What does the name Jesus mean?
• Why did Jesus' family go to Egypt and where did they stay there and why there?
• What prophet said "Out of Egypt I called my son."
• How did most people travel in the days of Jesus?
• What kind of home did Jesus probably grew up in?
• What is the origin of the term "Passover?"
• What is the significance of Jesus being at the Temple when he was 12 years old?

Items to Discuss:

--Regarding locations and events, you will probably want to talk about "how much we know for sure, how much is a good guess, and how much is tradition."

How important is "knowing" the right spots to your faith?

Very early after the resurrection, the followers of Jesus began collecting information about his life. There grew up around the many places where he lived and ministered, a pilgrimage atmosphere. Within several decades and in the succeeding centuries, buildings were constructed over several traditional sites.

His Early Ministry

Begin here: (moving clockwise following the fish)

• Baptism of Jesus
• Temptation in the Wilderness
• Cana Wedding
• Jesus Meets Nicodemus
• Woman at the Well
• "I am the Way"

 Baptism of Jesus --360

Scene: Yardenit Pilgrim Baptismal site at Jordan River

Intro: Narration about Baptism

• Mark 1: A description of John the Baptist
• Jordan mentioned 200 times in the Bible.
• Yardenit traditional site of Jesus' baptism.
• Related info: About John and Herod.
• Cultural info: How John looked.
• About "ritual bathing"

Info Button: Who were the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes?

 Doorway: A Closer Look at the Jordan River --photo

• The symbol of the Dove
• Cultural info about the Jordan
• More info about the Jordan

Info Button: Mark Twain's description of the Jordan (unflattering).

Scene: Traditional Site of Temptation

Intro: Narration of Temptation story.

• Historical info: Elijah hides at this site after battle.
• Luke 4: The Temptations
• Related scripture: Discussion of the three temptations.

Info Button: Jesus went to fast and pray.

Doorway: To the Mt. of Temptations

• Jesus taken to high mountain.
• Related tradition: About the Monastery
• Related info: About Elijah and Moses and 40 days of fasting.
• Satan says "Worship me."

Info Button: Background the temptations to power and authority as they relate to Roman power and authority and concept of Messiah.

Doorway: To Temple Parapet (ledge)

• About the Final Temptation
• About the Golden Gate where the Messiah will come in.
• Related scripture: About the gates of the city.
• Related scripture: About the glory of the Lord coming from east.
• About the graves visible on the hillside by Temple Mount.

Info Button: What fasting means.

* There's a view of Gethsemane across Kidron valley in this photo not noted in the program.

* Cross reference note: Pathways CD and legend of the Golden Gate, and Jesus at Gethsemane.

Cana --360

Scene: Church commemorating the Wedding Feast

• Mary related (?) to wedding party.
• Info about the Church at Cana.
• About the Arab village.

Info Button: About the wedding feast and its symbolism in the teaching of Christ.

Doorway: To Grotto of Cana Miracle (Photo only)

• Painting in the Grotto
• Scripture narration: John 2
• Historical info about Jewish marriage practices at the time
• Water pot in the Grotto.

Info Button: How they made wine in the time of Jesus.

Scene: Nighttime by the Western Wall

Intro: Narration of the Nicodemus story from John 3.

• Additional scripture: John 3
• Cultural info about Pharisees outlasting other groups.
• Related scripture: Jesus mentions Moses and the Bronze snake --symbol of healing.
• Historical info on Wailing Wall.
• About the presence of God on the Temple Mount.
• Cultural info about the Western "Wailing" Wall.
• Excavation of Robinson's Arch
• Herod's construction of the Mount
• Related info about Nicodemus.

Info Button: John 3:16

Scene: At Jacob's Well in the town of Sychar

Intro: Narration of the story

• Jesus defies convention by talking with Samaritan woman.
• Historical Info
• Scripture: John 4
• Water, a precious commodity
• Related tradition about pebbles tossed in the well.
• Cultural info: Well as social center.
• Related info: The heart of true worship.

Info Button: Discussion about who and what the Samaritans were.

Scene: Along the road to Jerusalem

Intro: John 14, "I go to prepare a place for you......I am the way....the...."

• Narrow gate to life /broad gate
• Trees of Israel
• Related info: Jesus prepares for the future.

Info Button: Explanation of Jesus claiming deity, "I am."

Doorway: To Nazareth (photo only, no hotspots)

Info Button: Jesus is run out of Nazareth.

Doorway: To Sea of Galilee and photo of boat.

Info Button: Jesus moves to Capernaum.

Scene: Modern day Jerusalem marketplace.

Narration: Intro about the story.

• Hear Mark 10 story of blessing of children.
• Cultural info about Sabbath at sundown.
• Modern market merchandise.
• Jesus speaks of a Kingdom governed by love.
• Historical info about ancient marketplace.

Info Button: The place of women and children in the time of Jesus.

Questions for His Early Ministry

• Why did religious people in the time of Jesus engage in "ritual bathing?"
• How many times is the Jordan River mentioned in the Bible?
• What did John the Baptist look like?
• What prophet hid in the wilderness and was fed by ravens?
• What were the three temptations given to Jesus?
• What is the name of the gate Jesus rode in through on Palm Sunday?
• Who do people expect to enter through this gate?
• How are the bridal couple treated in a Jewish wedding?
• How many gallons of water did Jesus into wine? What does the symbol of the wedding feast mean for Christians?
• What did Nicodemus ask Jesus and what was Jesus' response?
• What two other times is Nicodemus mentioned in the Gospels?
• Why are some Jews still afraid to go up on the Temple Mount?
• Why was Jesus' talking to the Samaritan woman a mild scandal?
• What do the narrow and broad gates lead to?
• What is Jesus holding in his hand when he talks about his new kind of Kingdom?
• What will Jesus' Kingdom based on?

Notes:

The Teachings and Miracles of Jesus

Begin Here: (and moving clockwise)

• Capernaum
• Calling the Disciples
• Sermon on the Mount
• Anointing of Jesus
• Jesus Feeds the 5000
• Jesus Walks on Water

 Capernaum

Scene: photo of modern city gate

Intro: Narration about Jesus in Capernaum

• Description of Capernaum as town of Jesus.
• Matthew 4: Area described as "Land of Zebulon"
• Capernaum means "Village of Nahum"
• Black volcanic rocks used for construction.

Info Button: The role of synagogues in Jewish religious life.

Doorway: To the Ruins of the Capernaum Synagogue

Intro: Narration of Jesus healing the sick at Peter's house in Capernaum

• This is not a synagogue from Jesus' time.
• Note: THAT synagogue is probably buried underneath.
• Sometimes called the "white synagogue"
• Cultural info about synagogues as houses of prayer and study.
• Historical info about 1968 excavations at St. Peter's house.

• Note: more recent excavations and studies tend to support this site as Peter's house.

• Modern Church over ruins of Peter's house.
• What Jesus did here during his three years of ministry.

Info Button: Peter's relationship with Jesus.

* Make sure you look around here. It is pretty cool.

 Doorway: To a photo of an ancient olive press. (No hotspots)

Info Buttons: "All about olives."

Scene: The Sea of Galilee

Intro: narration about Lake Genessaret (Galilee)

• Related scripture of Jesus' call to follow him.
• Luke 5: "put down your nets."
• The Museum of Man which house 1st century boat.
• Jesus choose the 12.

Doorway: To a photo of a fishing boat on the water.

• 12 disciples described as common men.
• Cultural info about the Sea of Galilee as a source for Israel's water.

Scene: Photo of mount area.

Intro: Narration about the beatitudes. First half of beatitudes spoken here.

• Related scripture --summary of beatitudes
• Is this the hill where the sermon occurred?

Doorway: To the Church of the Beatitudes --360

Intro: Second half of beatitudes spoken here.

• Historical info about the church.
• About the altar.
• Matthew 5: the rest of the beatitudes spoken here.

Doorway: To View the Sermon on the Mount Hill from Church --360

Intro: Narration of more Sermon on the Mount from Matthew 5.

• Jesus probably preached UP the hill, not down it.
• Related tradition about the Horns of Hattin as an alternative site.
• Church built in shape of octagon.

Anointing.....at the Town of Magdala --360

Scene: Ruins by the water's edge in Galilee

Intro: Narration of Jesus eating with Pharisee and getting anointed.

• Related tradition that it was Mary of Magdala who anointed Jesus.
• Historical info about the site.

Info Button: Luke 7 text of Jesus sparring with the Pharisee.

Scene: Church at Tabgha where the feeding is said to have occurred.

• Stone where feeding occurred turned into the altar.
• Related scripture noting that this is the only story all four Gospels include.
• Information about the Church and the 7 springs in the area.
• Historical note about Christianity becoming a legal religion in 320 A.D.
• Cultural info about how food creates bond and is metaphor for spiritual assistance.

Info Button: The meaning of the story of the feeding of 5000.

Doorway: To the trancept of Church to see mosaic. --360

Intro: Narration of the story of the feeding.

• Mosaics in the trancept.
• Another nearby church where Jesus appeared to Peter after the Resurrection.
• South transcept and another mosaic.
• Modern architecture of the church.

Doorway: To photo of the ancient mosaic at the altar.

Intro: Narration about the boy with the fish and loaves.

• Date of the mosaic.
• Related tradition.

Scene: Galilee photo

Narration of Matthew 14: Disciples see Jesus on the water.

• Related info about the fear of storms.
• Jesus seeks solitude.

Doorway: To Galilee hillside --360

Intro: Narration of story when disciples see Jesus on the shore after resurrection.

• Cultural/Geographical info about the Sea of Galilee.
• John 6: The rest of the story of Jesus on the water.
• About the size of the sea and how easy to get around.
• The plains and areas around Galilee

Doorway: To a photo of "The Bread of Life"

Intro: Narration of "I am the Bread...."

• Related scripture about bread and water.
• Cultural information about bread as a food and symbol.

Info Button: The people wanted a sign, Jesus gave them bread

• What's underneath that big church in Capernaum?
• What did the later followers of Jesus do to that structure?
• What were synagogues used for?
• How close is Capernaum to the Sea of Galilee?
• What did Jesus often do in Capernaum?
• "Forsake all and ______ him."
• Why did Jesus choose 12 disciples?
• What two words are used to describe the beatitudes?
• Which way did Jesus probably preach on the hill and why?
• Who was the woman who anointed Jesus in Magdala?
• Why was the Pharisee upset with the woman?
• What was Jesus' reaction to the Pharisee and the woman?
• What was made into an altar to commemorate the feeding of the 5000?
• What's the meaning of the story of the feeding of the 5000?
• How far below sea level is the Sea of Galilee and what does this elevation cause to happen?
• What is the meaning of the story of Jesus walking on the water?
• When the people wanted a sign from Jesus, what did he give them?

Possible discussion Items:

• --Peter's House in Capernaum very quickly became a popular place to visit in the early days of Christianity.
• Most likely, his family had lived there for generation. It is known from 2nd Century documents that the home became a church.
• Excavations at Capernaum revealed a simple home that had been enlarged over time to include a worship space. Today, a large
• modern church hovers over the excavation like a spaceship.

• --The western coast of the Sea of Galilee is surprisingly small. Most of the villages mentioned in the Bible were within a half days walk of each other, or a quick boat ride. Use a map to teach some of this geography. Better yet, create a relief map with clay or salt.

Notes:

Begin here: (and moving clockwise)

• Peter's Confession
• Transfiguration
• Jesus in Bethany
• Jesus at Jericho
• I am the Good Shepherd

 Peter's Confession --360

Scene: Outside the Citadel where Jesus was held.

Intro: Narration about Peter's Confession

• Historical info about the gate and fortress.
• Luke 9: continued narration of confession, "...Son of Man must die."
• Related tradition about the Mt. of Transfiguration.
• Historical note about the Mt. Tabor battle site and site of transfiguration.
• Related scripture about Deborah's battle at Tabor.
• Related scripture: The Confession of Peter and definition of "Messiah."

Doorway: To the Top of the Mount of Transfiguration

Scene: On Mount Tabor

Intro: Narration about the Transfiguration

• About the Crusader Church at the top.
• Related scripture about the transfiguration and Peter wanting to build tents.
• Serpentine road up the mountain.
• View of the Jezreel valley, battle site for Armageddon.

Info Button: The symbolic relationship between Jesus, Moses and Elijah.

 Doorway: To the Church of the Transfiguration

• About the design of the building.
• Symbolism of the two stained glass peacocks (eternity).
• About the architect.
• About the crucifix on the altar.
• About the Friar guides and the trap door.

Info Button: Notes about the architect.

Doorway: To a closer look at the Upper Mosaic.

• About the mosaic.

* Take a close look.

Scene: The Church of St. Lazarus

Intro: Narration about Jesus, Mary and Martha (relatives of Lazarus)

• About the mosaic.
• About the central altar at the tomb.
• About the mosaic of the raising of Lazarus.
• About Bethany as Jesus' "home away from home."

Doorway: To the Tomb of Lazarus --360

• About Bethany and Lazarus
• About the original tomb entrance.
• Related info about what Jesus said at the tomb.
• About the two room structure of ancient tombs: body chamber, mourning chamber.

Info Button: How the Priests react to the miracle of the raising.

Scene: Photo along the Jericho road.

Intro: Narration of the story of Blind Bartimaeus

• Luke 18, story of the healing.
• Jesus passes through Jericho many times. (See map)
• About ancient Jericho.
• Related scripture about the "poor will be with you always."
• Cultural info about the honey that comes from date palms.
• About ancient Jericho and its capture by Joshua.

Info Button: About Bartimaeus

Doorway: To a Jericho courtyard and sycamore tree. --360

• Historical info about pilgrimages to this site.
• Jericho as an oasis, about its trees,
• About Jericho's sea level.
• About the Church of Zaccheus

Doorway: To a closer look at the tree and story of Zaccheus. (Photo only)

 Items to Note:

--Israel is not a very big country. Walking its roads as Jesus did, one could easily see all the places where biblical events took place. Mt. Tabor rises in the middle of the great Jezreel plain for all to see and remember the events that once took place there. This biblical geography was ingrained on all who lived there and Jesus frequently used it to illustrate his teachings. When he himself goes to a site, he often links his story to those that took place there. The Transfiguration thus takes on added meaning when you consider the location at Armageddon.

Scene: A modern sheep pen.

Intro: Narration about entering the sheepfold.

• Related scripture: Jesus taught with parables. Metaphor of the Shepherd.
• Cultural info about modern sheepfold and wild animals.
• Info about nomads then and now.
• Cultural info about what shepherds do.
• Related scripture where Jesus tells Peter to "feed my sheep."

Info Button: Jesus describes himself as a shepherd.

Doorway: To Photo of Shepherd and Sheep

• Intro: Narration about Jesus.
• Related scripture about Jesus sending his shepherds to "all nations."
• Psalm 23.
• A good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep.

---

Questions for His Late Ministry

• What events took place at the Citadel?
• What happened on Mount Tabor?
• What is the meaning of the appearance of Elijah and Moses?
• What legendary battle do many believe will take place in the Valley of Jezreel?
• What is under the trap door?
• What does the peacock symbolize in Christian art?
• What was the relationship between Jesus and the man he raised from the dead?
• What was the reaction of the priests to the raising of that man?
• How were ancient tombs often constructed?
• Where is Jericho and what are two things that happened there in the Bible?
• What is the story of Zaccheus about?
• What kind of worker did Jesus often describe himself as being?
• How does a shepherd protect his sheep?
• Other than himself, who does Jesus appoint as shepherd?
• What will a good shepherd be willing to give for his sheep?

Begin here: (and moving clockwise)

• Jesus Enters Jerusalem
• Jesus Clears the Temple
• Jesus Teaches at the Temple
• Final Anointing
• Judas Betrays Jesus
• Last Supper
• "I am the Vine"
• Garden of Gethsemane

Jesus Enters Jerusalem --360

Scene: Church at Bethpage

Intro: Narration of Jesus telling disciples to go find a colt.

• Mural at altar about Palm Sunday procession.
• Historical info about the Bethpage Church and the crusaders.
• Jesus ushered into Jerusalem by Galileans.
• "Hosanna Rex Israel" means both "Hail King of Israel" and "Save Us King of Israel."
• Description of Bethpage as a hamlet.
• Scripture of cursing fig tree. Bethpage means "house of unripe figs."

Doorway: To see a photo of a colt.

Intro: Narration of Palm Sunday procession.

• Cultural info about the difference between a colt and donkey.
• Zechariah's prophecy of the procession of the King.

Doorway: To see close-up of procession mosaic

Intro: Continued narration of the Palm Sunday procession.

• Hear the rest of Mark 11, processional.
• Related tradition about Palms and their connection to Passover.

Scene: Photo of Temple Mount

Intro: Narration of the story.

• Historical info about the Temple and Dome of the Rock built on Mt. Moriah, Abraham/Isaac, etc.
• Info about money-changing at the Temple.
• Cultural info about the practice of sacrifice at the Temple and what outraged Jesus.

 Doorway: To the Temple Mount --360

Intro: Narration about Jesus and the Scribes.

• Cultural info about the Dome of the Rock built over Temple.
• Narration of Mark 12 and the Widow's Mite story.
• Story of Mohammed's visit to Jerusalem and ascension to heaven at Mt. Moriah.
• About the Al Aqsa Mosque on ruins of Herod's portico.
• About Jesus teaching at the Temple.
• Cultural info about the Temple courts.
• About Prayers spoken in direction of Mecca.

Info Button: The story of Abraham and Issac's sacrifice on Mt. Moriah (Temple Mount)

Jesus Teaches at the Temple --360

Scene: Outside the Temple

Intro: Narration describing Jesus' debates with Pharisees and Scribes.

• About the marketplaces of Old Jerusalem at Passover.
• Historical info about the Herodians against Jesus.
• Souvenirs for sale.
• Cultural Info about Caesar's coin and the paying of taxes.
• Related scripture about "rendering unto Caesar."

* No exit door in this section, use floor panel or << arrows to escape!

Scene: In Bethany again at Mary and Martha's

Intro: Narration of Jesus' anointing.

• About houses in the time of Jesus.
• How they cooked.
• Historical info about the cost of the perfume.
• John 12: Judas argues with Jesus.
• Related scripture: John identifies Judas as a thief.
• How dinner would be served at a house in time of Jesus.

Info button: About the perfume and its symbolism.

* No exit door in this section, use floor panel or << arrows to escape!

Scene: The tombs of the Kidron Valley

Intro: Narration of Judas and the High Priests

• Related scripture: The tomb of Zechariah.
• The tomb of St. James and tomb of a priestly family.
• Related tradition of the Pillar of Absalom (David's son) and tradition of fathers and sons throwing stones.
• Judas betrays Jesus, a discussion of his motives.
• Cultural info about where Jews would put tombs.
• Related scripture: the two difference versions of Judas' death.

Info button: Zechariah's prophecy about the 30 pieces of silver.

Scene: In the Cenacle--the church at the Upper Room.

Intro: Narration about disciples finding the Upper Room.

• Mark 14, the rest of the story.
• Cenacle is Latin for "dining room."
• Related story of Pentecost beginning here.
• About the 14th Century hall being built over the site.
• About the Medieval capitol on the pillar.
• About the stairwell.
• A muslim prayer niche directing worshippers.
• Stained glass Arabic inscription about David's Tomb which is supposed to be in basement of building (but scholars say no).

Info Button: About Jesus' Passover Seder with Disciples.

* Take a look up at the ceiling.

"I am the Vine" --360

Scene: A vineyard in Israel.

Intro: Narration of "I am the vine."

• More narration of Jesus' words.
• John 15: the rest of the vine passage.
• How vineyards are planted.
• Christ's final teaching to love one another....
• Related scripture about Jesus passing through vineyards near Mt. of Olives

Info Button: About the imagery of the vineyard and vine.

Note: Where's the sun in this photo?

Scene: The Mount of Olives and Church of All Nations with a view to Temple Mount.

Intro: Narration of disciples and Jesus going to the Mount of Olives.

• About the metaphor of the two deer standing by empty cross on roof (Zoom in)
• About the mosaic over the door, Alpha and Omega symbols.
• Statues of the four evangelists.
• Church built on site where Jesus prayed.
• Related scripture of Ezekiel's prophecy about this gate.
• About the walled up Golden (East) Gate.
• Graves in the Kidron valley.
• Was Gethsemane a private garden?

Doorway: To a photo of the Garden

Intro: Narration about the name Gethsemane meaning "oil press."

• About the "trees which never die."
• The economics of olive trees.

 Doorway: To enter the Church of All Nations --360

Intro: Narration of the story of Jesus' weeping in garden.

• About the church's architect.
• About the windows.
• About the large mosaic over the altar.
• Look up at the ceiling: About the starry night, coat of arms and olive branches.
• The words of Christ: "I am he."

Doorway: To closer look at the Mosaic.

• Judas' kiss, eastern custom.
• Peter's reaction and Jesus' healing of wounded servant.
• Matthew 26, the story of Betrayal

• How were some of the people who cheered "Hosanna" related to Jesus?
• What day of the week did Palm Sunday occur?
• Why did Jesus ride a colt through the city gate?
• What does Bethpage mean?
• Why was Jesus upset in the Temple?
• What was the purpose of a moneychanger?
• What kinds of offering did people make at Passover in the Temple?
• Why was the Temple built on Mount Moriah?
• Who built the Mosque on Moriah and when was it built?
• What is a "widow's mite?"
• What did the Pharisees and Jesus debate about ?
• What was Jesus trying to teach the Pharisees regarding the coin?
• What was the typical home like in the time of Jesus?
• What is nard? Who put it on Jesus? And why?
• What lies in the Valley of Kidron?
• What two hills does the Valley of Kidron run between?
• Why do fathers and sons throw rocks at Absalom's tomb?
• Why did Judas betray Jesus?
• What is the "Cenacle?"
• What two important Christian events happened in the Upper Room?
• Greater love hath no man than this: ________________.
• What stands on the roof looking at the empty cross?
• What does the name "Gethsemane" mean?
• Why is the Church of All Nations called that?

Comments:

--A quick geography lesson might really help the kids. Creating a 3-D relief map might be a great help.

--An ancient Jewish legend says that the end of the world will begin at the Mt. of Olives. There at the top of the mountain is the legendary entrance to the land of the dead.

 

 

---

Passion and Resurrection

 

Begin here:

 

Arrest and Trial

Via Dolorosa

Holy Sepulchre

(has its own major segment)

Garden Tomb

Appearance in Galilee

Ascension

Arrest and Trial --360

Scene: Outside the Lion's Gate

Intro: Narration of Peter following Jesus and the arresting soldiers

Related info about Lion's Gate, a.k.a. the Gethsemane or St. Stephen's Gate

Hear Matthew 26, the trial with the priests.

Related scripture about Caiaphas' verdict.

Soldiers worked for the priests. The charges against Jesus.

Info Button: Peter's Denial

Doorway: To the Citadel, Pilate and Herod's Trial --360

Intro: Narration of the trials

About the Citadel (a.k.a. David's Tower) or Antonian Fortress

About Pilate

Matthew 27, Jesus vs. Herod. Mocked by soldiers

Historical note about other possible location of trial.

Info Button: About the Sanhedrin and Priests

 Doorway: To the Site of the Trial with Pilate (a.k.a. the "Lithostratus) --360

About the Lithostratus (ancient pavement).

Historical note about pavement gameboard markings

Pilate and the crowd speak.

Stone floor crisscrossed with rain gutters.

On picture of Jesus. Related scripture from John.

Scene: Along the Via Dolorosa near Ecce Homo Arch

Intro: Narration about the Ecce Homo Arch, "Behold the Man"

John 19: Pilate condemns Jesus.

The Ecce Homo Arch

Historical note about the Antonia Fortress where Pilate condemned Jesus.

About the 14 stations of the cross.

Via Dolorosa, in Latin "The Way of Sorrows"

Related tradition about St. Helena who took the fortress stairs to Rome.

About the Antonia Fortress, now a monastery and boys School.

Info Button: Question: Why did Christ's life have to end this way? Answer: "He gave his life as a ransom for many."

HOLY SEPULCHRE

A sub-section of the Passion & Resurrection Section:

Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre

Entry

Chapel of Nailing

Chapel of Crucifixion

Gordon's Calvary

Stone of Unction

Chapel of St. Helena

The Holy Sepulchre

Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre

Scene: Photo of the Church

Intro: Narration about Simon of Cyrene

Basilica as the "heartshrine" of Christianity built over Calvary.

Historical note about its construction in 4^th Century by Constantine and Helena

 Doorway: A doorway that leads to next segment: Entry

Entry --360

Scene: Exterior of the Church

Intro: Narration of Pilate dictating the sign over the cross.

Historical note about the pagan statues that have been put at Calvary.

Note about the Dome covering the ceremonial entrance.

Historical note about Basilica's construction and subsequent destructions.

The three Greek chapels.

About St. John's Chapel

About St. James Chapel

Entrances to the Coptic, Armenian and Greek Orthodox monasteries.

Courtyard entry is unassuming and hemmed in.

Doorway: Into the Chapel of Nailing (Photobubble)

Scene: Inside the Chapel

Intro: Narration of the soldiers dividing garments. Psalm 22.

About the Chapel. Do a close-up of mosaic.

About the bronze altar.

About the Mary icon.

About the rocky outcrop that lies under the church and altar.

Station of Cross commemorating where Jesus was stripped.

About the Crusader mosaic. (Look up)

Related scripture: "Behold thy son."

Mosaic depicting Abraham's sacrifice of Isaac.

Doorway: To the Chapel of the Crucifixion (next segment)

Doorway: Return to the Courtyard

Chapel of the Crucifixion --360

Scene: The Altar in the Chapel

Intro: Narration of Christ's words on the cross.

About the Greek Orthodox style altar, lamps, candles and icons.

Jesus on the Cross as Mary and John look on.

John 19 and Matthew 27: Temple curtain torn in two, the Centurion's words.

About the hole under the altar on the top of Calvary.

Doorway: To the Stone of Unction.

Doorway: Shortcut to Gordon's Calvary

Scene: Looking at the skull-like rock formation of "another" Golgotha.

Intro: Narration about this skull-looking site.

Is this the true Golgotha?

Tour group devotions.

Doorway: Back to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Doorway: To the Garden Tomb

Intro: Narration of the women seeing the empty tomb.

Who was the "other" Mary?

Scripture of the women and men finding the empty tomb.

 Doorway: Back to Gordon's Calvary

Doorway: Inside the Empty Tomb

"He is not here."

Matthew 28, John 20: Mary sees Jesus.

About Christ's transformed appearance.

Description of tomb ledge and bench.

Theological reason why Jesus said "Do not touch me."

Description of how tombs were typically built.

Scene: Chapel commemorating where they laid Jesus' body and annointed it.

Intro: Narration of soldiers piercing Jesus' side.

Related scripture: Prophecy of Zechariah "Look upon him who is pierced."

About the stone slab of annointing (unction)

About the visitors who rub the stone.

Doorway: Shortcut back to the Holy Sepulchre segment

Doorway: For a closer look at mosaic depicting this event.

Scene: The Chapel Interior.

Intro: Narration about the glory of the Cross.

This Armenian chapel is dedicated to Helena and the good thief.

Helena supposedly found the "true cross" in a nearby cave.

Legend says that Helena threw coins to workers to keep digging to find cross.

About the mosaic floor

Helena found the cross in a refuse ditch.

Current structure built by Crusaders.

Crosses carved in stairwell by pilgrims.

Painting of Gregory, patron saint of Armenia.

* Look up at the ceiling! (This is a pretty cool section)

Doorway: Return to the Stone of Unction

Scene: Pilgrims gather to enter shrine over the sight of the Sepulchre

Intro: Narration about Jesus being laid in tomb.

Tomb is a symbol of sorrow and glory.

Description of the Greek Orthodox Holy Fire Ceremony.

About the giant candle sticks.

About the pillars.

Related scripture: Paul's First Corinthian of the Gospel he received....

About the visitors who come from around the world.

Historical notes about Constantine naming the building the "Church of the Resurrection."

* Don't forget to look up at the ceiling!

Doorway: Return to Entrance

(Back on the Passion and Resurrection segment)

Scene: Photo of sea.

Intro: Narration of Jesus telling the disciples where to catch fish.

Jesus appears to disciples. The miracle of the net.

Tradition of the "Mensa Christi" -table of Christ where Jesus and the disciples ate.

John 21: Peter runs from boat to Jesus.

Jesus foretells Peter's death.

Scene: Nighttime at the Mount of Olives

Intro: Narration of the Ascension story.

The brief appearances of Jesus and the promise of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 1: The Ascension

Related scripture: The angels promise Christ's return.

Jesus challenges his followers to go into the whole world.

About the International Hotel.

Info Button: A devotional about the incarnation present today.

Questions for Arrest & Trial, Via Dolorosa

What was the charge brought against Jesus?

What was the name of the Jewish council that put Jesus on trial?

Who did Herod think Jesus was?

What's carved on the floor of the Lithostratus?

What happened at the Lithostratus?

What does "Via Dolorosa" mean?

Who said, "Behold the man" ??

Why did Christ's life have to end the way it did?

Questions for the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre

Why is the Basilica called the "heartshrine"?

Who built the Basilica and when?

How many times has it been destroyed and rebuilt?

What is the connection between the Abraham/Isaac story and the death of Jesus?

What is under the altar in the Chapel of the Crucifixion?

How do you think you would feel if you could touch it?

Why do some people need to rub the Stone of Unction?

What is Gordon's Calvary?

What does the sign read at the entrance to the tomb in the Garden?

Why did Jesus say "do not touch me"?

Where did Helena claim to find the "true cross"?

What do pilgrims carve in the Chapel of Helena?

What is the Fire Ceremony?

What did Constantine call the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre and why did he call it that?

Questions for The Appearance and The Ascension

What does it mean when Jesus tell his disciples where to fish?

What is the Mensa Christi?

What did Peter do when he saw Jesus on the shore of the sea?

What were the disciples promised at Christ's ascension?

What was Jesus' final challenge to his disciples?

The following two lesson plan examples show you two possibilities. Your own lesson plans will undoubtedly vary. These two are based on lessons from my own lab.

 

Footsteps Lesson #1 --- Jesus' Baptism

 

Summary: You'll begin class with a face-to-face introduction and reading of scripture away from the computers. Students will list observations and come up with questions to ponder. They'll browse the Bible Atlas map on Jesus' baptism locating the story, then view a Disciples Diary "fly-in" over the Jordan River which ends at the traditional baptismal site. Students will then jump into the Footsteps photobubble on baptism and then reconvene back at their discussion area. The Bible Atlas maps or Disciples Diary could be deleted if unavailable and replaced with other learning activities, but have a map handy.

Other program options: Elizabeth and Zechariah's homepages in Bibleland.com could be used to provide more background on John the Baptist. Our ministry's study guide to Pathways Through Jerusalem contains a worksheet and notes on where the ritual use of water is discussed in the various pathways. In particular, you might access the El Kas fountain and Sheep's pool through the Main map or database.

 

1. Have the class read Luke 3 --the story of Jesus' baptism. On a board or flip chart, have students list several observations and questions, such as:

How was Jesus baptized?
Who was John the Baptist? What was his message?
Who were the main players in the story.
Where the story takes place.
"I wonder what Jesus was feeling?"
"I wonder what the people watching were thinking?"
"I wonder why Jesus needed to be baptized?"
What is the meaning of baptism?
etc.

Add your own questions whose answers can only be found in the software they are about to use. You'll now be sending them to the computers in search of answers to these questions. In addition to these questions, you may want to add a few of your own for Bible Atlas and Disciples Diary:

What two bodies of water does the Jordan connect?
What two lands does the Jordan separate?
Who was John the Baptist? What do we know about him? ...for sure ....for maybe

2. Assign students to groups. Have them write the classes' questions and yours on a piece of paper and then send them into Bible Atlas and Disciples Diary recording observations as they go. In Bible Atlas, have them look for the map about the baptism (let them search for it). In Disciples Diary, have them look for the multimedia clip on the Jordan and view it. Have them do a search in the program for "baptism" and do a bit of looking around on the subject.

 

3. After everyone has finished exploring in these two programs, have the class turn their chairs around to offer up their answers to the questions. Expand on their answers with your own comments.

 

4. Next, offer up these three questions --the answers to which can be discovered in the Footsteps photobubble on the baptism of Jesus. Our ministry's 23 page outline of the program gives you details on what you'll find there, including what's mentioned in the hotspots at that site.

How is John described?
Who was one of John's enemies?
What does the symbol of the dove mean?
Following their exploration of this photobubble, reconvene away from the computers for discussion.

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Follow-up discussion ideas:

--Have a bowl of water ready. As you're expanding on the symbolism of water, dab a bit on their foreheads. Talk about how your church baptizes its children or adults.

--You might also choose to focus on John the Baptist ---what is the role of a prophet? ---who speaks out in our day against injustice? ---how are you doing it?

--Older students may be ready to wrestle with the meaning of baptism using an astounding story: Mass murderer Jeffrey Dahmer was baptized for the forgiveness of sins by a prison chaplain in the prison whirlpool shortly before he was murdered by another inmate. Adolf Hitler was also baptized. This should certainly provoke some discussion!

Remember: This is an outline! Your creative ideas and discussion objectives should certainly prevail. My approach would be to do a unit on Baptism, of which the software would only be one component.

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Footsteps Lesson #2
--- Using Footsteps to Create a Quiz or Gameshow

In this lesson, you will split your class into as many teams as you have computers and copies of Footsteps. Your students will be touring photobubble sites selected by the teacher. As they tour, they will be writing down 10 questions (or as many as you like) based on information found in the assigned photobubbles. These questions should be written down onto 3 x 5 cards. Each question must be accompanied by three possible answers. Plan on this taking at least 20 minutes. Monitor the question writing so that it focuses on the main parts of the information, not the minutae. Begin the class with face-to-face Bible study reading passages that match the photobubbles you will assign.

 

The teacher should come up with 6 to 8 "what does it mean?" questions based on the photobubble topics. These will be mixed into to each team's question cards.

 

Some Footsteps sections that would work well with this approach....

Chapel of the Crucifixion & Gordon's Calvary
Manger Square in Bethlehem
Temptation in the Wilderness

Then, following the exploration time and question writing time, arrange the class into a gameshow/contest set up with the teacher as Alex Trebek! Questions from one team get asked of the others. If the teams can't answer the question, the team who wrote the question can answer their own question for a bonus. Mix in the questions written by the teacher. Take time for a little discussion as each question is answered.

 

Following the gameshow, have each team write down on a large piece of display "what we learned today about...." "what most amazed us...." "what was the strangest fact we learned...." etc..... Or--have a follow-up activity related to the Bible story covered, such as a video, art project, or skit.

 

Bonus Lesson #3 ...a brief outline of how I used Footsteps ~in conjunction with several other programs, to teach a lesson about the Healing of the Paralytic Let Down Through the Roof.

On computer number 1 the kids used Lesson 17 from Life of Christ and took the quiz that goes with it. On computer number 2 the other group was viewing the video clip of the story from the Life & Ministry of Jesus CD. They also read the scripture passage from the Discover the Bible section on that CD. Then the two groups looked at the 3-D walk through of Peter's House in Capernaum where the miracle is said to have taken place. Our class was impressed how big Peter's house looked and figure there must have been over 75 people in the crowd (a key factor in their determining that the man's friends were REAL friends to make such a large crowd angry). They went through the house several times and were quite taken with their ability to navigate it. For many, this was the first time they had seen what a house in those days may have looked like. We then turned on Footsteps of Jesus, the Capernaum section in Jesus' Miracles section. When standing on the Capernaum synagogue you can turn around and view the ruins of Capernaum and see the Sea of Galilee in the background. Many in our class were surprised to see palm trees. To them, such information was new.