Both the singers and the players on instruments say, “All my springs are in you.” Psalm 87:7

The month of May was no exception to the previous month with over 43,300 people visiting the garden and is now slowing down which will enable staff to avail of some holiday time. Steve & Sue left the Garden in May also, to commence a well-earned sabbatical, having served faithfully for over seven years. The staff and volunteers, in prayer, sent them off with a fond farewell – trusting that they will return refreshed and not exhausted from their hectic travel schedule.

Garden Renovations continue…

Phase 2 of the building programme, apartments, ‘New Mews’ is progressing nicely and both, hopefully, will be operational for September. The renovations to the Administration block are well underway and should be completed by the end of July. The Lighting project will commence presently which will complete the remainder of the Garden.

New Security Fencing for the Garden

A Company, have kindly donated a new security fence. This is of much higher speck and will replace the current fence around the entire perimeter. We are very appreciative of their generosity with supplying this material which is due to arrive on July 1st.

Garden Events

Our May date went ahead in spite of weather conditions of the ‘Handel’s Messiah’. The Hallelujah Chorus resounded around the Garden as all 250 Guests rose to their feet singing with the Choir.

We praise the Lord for the privilege we have in presenting the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection. We had a number of testimonies of couples coming to saving grace, brings such great joy and encouragement to all in this ministry. We are always mindful in seeking the Lord’s wisdom and the Holy Spirit’s guidance, as we continue to serve the ever-increasing numbers of Christians visiting the Holy Land, many of whom consider their visit to the Garden Tomb to be the highlight of their tour.

Looking Ahead

Shared Summer Concerts: Throughout the Summer the Garden Tomb has agreed to host six different free concerts representing a variety of musical genres. The events are organised by an institution seeking to develop cultural events in East Jerusalem. These concerts will be open to the public free of charge and shall hopefully draw a mixed crowd of Israelis, Palestinians, and foreign tourists. We consider it a wonderful opportunity to engage with local communities in Jerusalem and to expose the Garden Tomb and its message to people who would not have visited here otherwise.

New Volunteer’s Reflections

As a retired teacher from England I am in my fifth week as a volunteer. Although I have made many visits here, as an individual, living and serving here has far exceeded my expectations. I had not realised, until now, just how free we are as Guides to proclaim the Gospel. It is a delight and privilege to do so – and the response is amazing. The Holy Spirit is at work here in so many ways. I have also enjoyed serving alongside people from all walks of life and countries, and have especially enjoyed communing with the Lord as I have cleaned benches in the early mornings as the sun begins to rise. “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 – Sue Trainer

Blessings form Jerusalem

Kieran Ryan

Acting Director,
Garden Tomb Jerusalem