SUMMER/FALL NEWSLETTER 2015 www.digging4it.com
UP ON THE ROOF page 3
The Biblical Meal Experience
page 4
Sweet Treat for Summer
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SUMMER/FALL 2015
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location 130 Gordon Commercial Drive LaGrange, GA 30240
mailing address P.O. Box 3900 LaGrange, GA 30241
phone 706.885.0363
email contact@explorationsinantiquity.com
web digging4it.com
DONOR SPOTLIGHT
STEPHEN STANLEY
From the desk of Laura Jennings, Director of Development Odd dollar amounts and uneven cents. Each month a different amount. The donation comes in monthly, but not the same time every month. Curiosity gnawed and my emails and letters began in earnest to donor Stephen Stanley. I want to know each and every donor and how I may help them achieve their philanthropic goals. And finally, the answer! Stephen gives 10 percent of his gross income to the Lord. Because he is a contractor, his pay varies from week to week. “Giving to the Antiquity Center is my pleasure. I can tell you that the Lord has been doing some amazing things in my life, and I have been truly blessed. I think what you guys are doing truly is giving honor to the Lord. This is one of the main reasons why I give,” explained the Salem, Alabama resident. The mystery was solved just before our predictably unpredictable donor traveled to Israel with founder Dr. Jim Fleming and Hannaniah Pinto this May. Explorations in Antiquity Center has the impactful reach that it does because of the Stephen Stanleys of this world. Each of you donors has a longing to see the Bible brought to life. Just think of the messages you are sending to our 16,000 visitors. Be it the loyal $10 per month donor or the person including EIA in his or her will, the Center has been built by the heart of donors like you. With admissions covering just 50 percent of our operating costs, we rely on you in a big way. Please take a minute to send a donation in the envelope inserted in this newsletter. Thanks for your devotion and keep up the good work!
“ I think what you guys are doing truly is giving honor to the Lord. This is one of the main reasons why I give.” — Donor Stephen Stanley This newsletter is published twice per year by the Development Department and is designed to highlight events and people, to encourage attendance and volunteering, and to inspire donors to continue their generous contributions.
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ON THE COVER: From left, LaGrange College students
Alex Murfin and Spencer Harris share the Biblical Meal Experience with Greg McClanahan, professor of mathematics. McClanahan brought the students from his Janterm class.
ARTIFACTS SPOTLIGHT
UP ON THE ROOF
What sets EIA apart from other such attractions is sharing the impact archaeological discoveries have on the understanding of the Scriptures. The roof roller is a fine example of an archaeological find that helps us better grasp the living conditions in the ancient Middle East. During biblical times, it was common for families to gather atop the flat roofs of their homes. The climate was typically mild so the rooftop provided an outdoor room, adding much needed space to the small, dark homes. Mud roofs were about four inches thick and had three layers: the wooden beams, bulrush reeds, and a mud/clay top. The mud would be pressed down tight with a stone roller to keep the mud from absorbing too much water during a heavy rain. The surface would become hardened and more water repellent. Our Old Testament era roof roller weighs 150 pounds and dates between 800 and 600 B.C. A wooden ladder or stairs gave access to the rooftop, which was often partly shaded by goat hair tent material. The exhibit’s background photograph helps illustrate how many activities were conducted on
rooftops. Tasks that required more space – such as drying of weaving material were often done on the flat roof. The space was also used to take advantage of the breeze for sleeping when indoors would be too hot during the summer. Rahab of Jericho, the prostitute, hid Israelite spies under the stalks of flax drying on her rooftop (Joshua 2). The wording of a famous New Testament story can be nicely visualized with this artifact. The gospels tell of friends of a paralyzed man not wanting to stand in the long line waiting to see Jesus at Simon Peter’s mother-in-law’s house in Capernaum. “And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.” Mark 2:4-5 The roof roller is just one of over 250 artifacts entrusted to EIA for a long-term collection by the Israel Antiquities Authority and featured in our donor-funded artifacts gallery.
DONORS MAKE TRAVEL AWARD POSSIBLE Thanks to consistently great reviews from its delighted visitors, EIA has earned the Certificate of Excellence for 2015 from Trip Advisor, the world’s largest travel site. And why does EIA earn the rave reviews? Because our donors have provided the funds to create a first-class learning experience. Thank you, donors! SUMMER/FALL 2015
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THE BIBLICAL MEAL EXPERIENCE By Dr. James W. Fleming One of the many themes of EIA’s Biblical Mealtime Experience is participating in aspects of a Passover meal during the time of the Gospels. Our emphasis is not the Jewish Seder. On our table (pictured on the front cover) are some of the following items which were symbolic of the Passover exodus from Egypt: UNLEAVENED BREAD Several things were particularly significant for Passover itself. Two of them were the unleavened bread and wine. They commemorate when the Israelites were told to leave Egypt quickly and not to wait for the bread to rise. WINE In Exodus 6:6-7, there are four phases of redemption identified by the words: “I will bring you out…I will deliver you from their bondage…I will redeem you with outstretched arms… (and) I will bring you to the land”. Accordingly, four cups of diluted wine were instituted through the course of the meal to celebrate the deliverance from Egypt. LAMB The lamb had to be roasted. It could not be boiled, because it would come from their paschal sacrifice. After roasting, however, they could thin it. The poor mixed it with vegetables and made a stew. That the Last Supper was a dipping meal is clear. “The betrayer,” Jesus said, “is someone dipping in my bowl with me.” So it could be that the Last Supper was a paschal celebration, and they mixed the meat with vegetables, perhaps as a way of stretching the limited amount of meat. We found at the museum that many people were not used to eating lamb, leaving it on
the table untouched. So we began offering roasted chicken basted and seasoned the ancient way with salt, vinegar, and honey. BITTER HERBS There also would have been bitter herbs, such as whole cloves of garlic. Today, this would include carrots, cucumbers, onions or radishes. This was a reminder of their cruel and bitter bondage. In the book of Jubilees, in the Second Century BCE, there is a reference to such bitter herbs on the Passover table.
DID YOU KNOW that eating utensils were not used
by many people during this era? Bread served both as a scooping and dipping device, as well as a napkin. To be more authentic, the EIA meal is eaten without cutlery but napkins are provided. Other Passover food items that may have been on the table, but not mentioned until 90 CE: HAROSET Another item that may have been on the table was a bowl of haroset, which is a mixture of the fruit of the trees. In biblical times this would have included figs, dates, raisins and sometimes nuts. Basically, it is like a jam that looks very much like mud. This was a reminder of their slavery in Egypt when they had to make the mud brick. But the Lord made their bondage sweet, so it is like a dessert. BAKED EGGS Baked eggs taste much like boiled eggs, but because water had to be hauled, the eggs were baked instead. Eggs were an ancient symbol of the suffering and might have originally drawn an analogy to the suffering of the Israelites in Egypt. Rabbis have had great discussions about what the baked eggs would have meant. Other common food items not necessarily related to Passover included lentil soup, dried and fresh fruit (figs, dates, raisins, apricots) and a variety of nuts (such as almonds, hazelnuts chick peas and walnuts).
BIBLICAL M EA LS, KI D S ’ A R C HA EOLOG I C A L D IGS & SHEPHER D BR EA D MA KI NG (by reservation) SCRIPT U R E G A R D EN TOU R S (walk-ins welcome!) Year ‘Round Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm 4
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SWEET TREAT FOR SUMMER A favorite dish featured in our Biblical meals is haroset. This mixture of sweet fruits is blended together into a jam-like texture and eaten with bread. The appearance symbolizes the mud brick used by the Hebrew workers during their bondage in Egypt. But its taste is sweet, causing one to recall that God helped the ancient Hebrews learn sweet lessons from their bondage experiences. More recipes may be found in Jesus’ Last Night with His Disciples: A Study of the First Century Historical and Archaeological Setting of the Last Supper written by Hannaniah O. Pinto and James W. Fleming. The book is on sale for $39 plus tax, and can be purchased in our book store or by going online to biblicalresources.net.
“Bagel? It’s just good on a spoon.”
~ Dr. Derrick Lewis, EIA’s Chief Operating Officer Chef Bré with a bowl of haroset.
HAROSET Delicious on a toasted bagel, English muffin, biscuit or as a side to an entrée. 5 cups of applesauce 1 cup of chopped dates (dried or fresh) 1 cup of chopped apricots (dried) 1 cup of chopped walnuts 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup sweet red wine (optional - we do not add this in recipe at the Center) 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon cinnamon Combine the dates, apricots, walnuts and applesauce in a pan and cook over medium heat. When it boils, add honey, wine, brown sugar and cinnamon. Lower heat and warm for 30 minutes, stirring often. Cool and eat. Keep refrigerated.
THEATER FOR RENT Did you know the Roman Theater with seating for 300 spectators is available for rent? It’s a great outdoor venue for theatrical performances, musical programs, weddings, graduation ceremonies and much more. Contact Derrick Lewis for pricing and availability. derrick@explorationsinantiquity.com SUMMER/FALL 2015
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR 2015-2016 Herod and the character of the reign of King Jesus as understood by his early followers. The show will feature the discoveries at the recently excavated tomb of Herod.
2016 10TH ANNIVERSARY TRIP TO EGYPT Saturday, January 23 – Saturday, February 6, 2016 See article on page 4.
2015 BIBLE LANDS ADVENTURE KIDS’ CAMP Wednesday – Friday, June & July (except July 4 week) 10 am - 12:30 pm Come for a day, a week or every session – June 3-5, 1012, 17-19, 24-26 & July 8-10, 15-17, 22-24, 29-31, 2015 FALL CONFERENCE: ARCHAEOLOGY LOOKS AT THE BOOK OF GENESIS Monday, September 14 - Wednesday, September 16, 2015 Examines the implications of archaeological work at sites mentioned in Genesis. Theological summaries will be included at the end of each session. Sessions include The Creation Poem; Pre-History and the Flood Narrative; The Culture of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs; The God of the Marginal; and The God of Promise. Lectures by Dr. Fleming. FOLLOW THE SHEPHERDS WALKS DAILY: Tuesdays - Saturdays in December & Christmas Eve NIGHTLY: December 4 & 5, 11 & 12, 18 & 19, & 24, 2015 Follow the journey of Joseph and Mary as they travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem and learn new insights into the Christmas story. These walks can be done in conjunction with the Christmas multi-media presentation. Reservations required. CHRISTMAS MULTI-MEDIA PRESENTATION: “TWO DIFFERENT KINGS” Fridays & Saturdays in December & Christmas Eve December 4 & 5, 11 & 12, 18 & 19 & 24, 2015 This multi-media presentation in the Roman theatre contrasts the difference between the world of King 6
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SPRING CONFERENCE: THE LAND OF THE BIBLE Monday, February 29 - Wednesday March 2, 2016 The Bible mentions literally hundreds of geographical settings for biblical events, such as seas, mountains, rivers, valleys, deserts and cities. We will examine the most important features of these places and discuss how understanding them helps add important interpretive insights to our faith. Lectures by Dr. Fleming. FOLLOW THE CROSS WALKS Wednesday, March 2 – Saturday, March 26, 2016 Learn more about the last week of Jesus’ ministry in one of the most authentic settings this side of Israel. Guided tours include: Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, teaching at the Temple, the Last Supper, the arrest in Gethsemane, trial before Pontius Pilate, crucifixion, and the Resurrection. For the ultimate Easter experience, schedule a Biblical Meal as part of your tour. GOOD FRIDAY REFLECTION Friday, March 25, 2016 – 7 pm HOLY SATURDAY MULTI-MEDIA PRESENTATION Saturday, March 26, 2016 – 10 am - 6 pm EASTER SUNRISE CELEBRATION Sunday, March 27, 2016 – 7 am Come celebrate Easter in one of the most authentic settings this side of Israel. 9TH ANNUAL NATIONAL HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE OBSERVATION Sunday, May 1, 2016 – 4 pm A community gathering for Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom Hashoah), which was established in 1951 by the Israeli parliament. The date coincides with the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and with the liberation of the concentration camps in western Europe.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR 2015-2016 FALL CONFERENCE: FROM NAZARETH TO BETHLEHEM Monday, November 14 – Wednesday, November 16, 2016 This conference will serve as an update on recent excavations and research related to places in the Christmas narratives such as Nazareth, Bethlehem, Ein Karem, Herod’s palaces in Jerusalem the Herodium and Egypt. We will also look at lessons to be learned from major characters in the narratives such as Joseph, Mary, Elizabeth, Zachariah, the shepherds and the Magi. Lectures by Dr. Fleming. FOLLOW THE SHEPHERDS WALKS December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 2016 ROMAN ARMY DAY Saturday, May 7, 2016 – 10 am – 6 pm An extremely popular annual event that features dramatic presentations from Legio XI, a group of Roman soldier re-enactors. Other activities include bread making, mosaic tiling, weaving, Roman marketplace, catacombs and much more. BIBLE LANDS ADVENTURE KIDS’ CAMP Wednesday – Friday, June & July (except July 4 week) Come for a day, a week or every session – June 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 22-23, 29-July 1; July 13-15, 20-22, 27-29, 2016
Follow the journey of Joseph and Mary as they travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem and learn new insights into the Christmas story. These walks can be done in conjunction with the Christmas multi-media presentation. Reservations required. CHRISTMAS MULTI-MEDIA PRESENTATION December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 2016 – 7:30 pm This multi-media sound and light show in the Roman stepped theatre will contrast the difference between the world of King Herod and the character of the reign of King Jesus, as understood by his early followers. The show will feature the discoveries at the recently excavated tomb of Herod.
Letters from Kids “M y fa vo rit cro s s a e pa r t wa s th e nd lea rn a b ou t that tim ing mo re e. Wh e left (E I A) n we bu z zin , my bra in wa g with s a ll th e fa cts, cool so I d e cid ed a boo k to writ .. e pa g es . that’ s fo r ty - six long.” ~ Cate
wa nt to have “I woul d not ta co m b to g o to a ca woul d g et fo r chu rch. I nerved with soooooooo un ul ls sta ri ng a bun ch of sk ybe I a m at m e! Ok, ma g a lit tl e b it.” exa g g erati n ~ An na L.W.
“I li k ed th e m o de Th ey w ere co l to m b s. ol en o bu t yo ugh us rea l bo hou ld have p ut d ies. T he sm ell t er rible y wou ld . I li k ed ma k ing t th e fi re h e bread by a d eli cio nd th e tea w as u s.” ~ Eve
LETTER FROM TEACHER “Kayla, our guide, was fantastic at keeping the students’ (and parents’) interest. Everyone learned a great deal. One parent even commented, ‘That was the best field trip my child has ever been on.’ Thank you for providing such an incredible educational experience for us.” ~ Tanya SUMMER/FALL 2015
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CRUISING THE NILE EIA’s 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATORY TRIP SET FOR JANUARY 23- FEBRUARY 6, 2016 Escape the cold weather and doldrums of winter with a trip to Egypt and Sinai with Dr. James Fleming and Hannaniah Pinto. Reserve your place today for this archaeological journey which follows the ancient Hebrews from bondage to freedom. This adventure includes a seven-night Nile cruise aboard a ship booked exclusively for Explorations in Antiquity travelers. Scripture will come alive as you study Moses and the Exodus, the Sinai Journey to the Promised Land, Egyptian gods and Pharaoh, the meaning of the plagues and much more! This trip kicks off EIA’s 10th anniversary and includes a $200 donation per person for EIA. The itinerary may be found at BiblicalResources.net. Email travelbr@earthlink.net and request a brochure, or call Ginny McCabe at 706-885-0363.
SEVEN WISH LIST ITEMS You can greatly impact our mission by donating funds for the high need items listed below. DVD Players and Televisions for Orientation Video $1,500 Sound Equipment for the Classroom $2,500 Reservations/Scheduling Software $3,000 Fiestaware for Biblical Meals $5,000 Mobile App for Artifacts Gallery $8,000 Wayfinding/Promotional Signs $11,000 Orientation DVD $12,000 JUST SUBSCRIBED Thanks Charter Foundation of LaGrange, Georgia!!
WHY WE GIVE
“I was privileged in 1980 to have been part of a tour to the Holy Lands led by Dr. Fleming. Through his vast knowledge of scripture and the historical locations cited, he was able to bring the Bible to life. He is still bringing the Bible to life for many who visit the Explorations in Antiquity Center.” – Ann Grazier, Largo, Florida 8
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