Amsterdam, Netherlands - Dutch Ambassador for Peace Rob Schrama is inviting people from around the world to join in a June 20 walk/run from Jericho to Jerusalem as a journey of reconciliation and forgiveness.
Modeled on the marathon, but longer and more challenging, the "Jerichon" is an initiative of the Dutch conceptual artist Rob Schrama. In contrast with the marathon, which is usually run along a fairly level route, the 35 kilometers of the Jerichon is a steady climb: from 400 meters below sea level in Jericho to 1,200 meters above sea level in Jerusalem. This event is not meant only for trained runners; others can cover the distance at their own rate.
The route will take participants through one of the world’s most beautiful nature reserves, Wadi Qelt, a colorful desert gorge with remains of an aqueduct from Roman times. It also passes the famous abbey of Saint George under the grotto where Jesus is said to have meditated and fasted for 40 days.
A journey of suffering and hardship for everybody, it is especially designed for those who wish to take the suffering of their nation upon their shoulders. Thsi will draw attention to the challenges their people face and in a symbolic way lighten the burdens of their people as well as the people of Jerusalem. People from India and Pakistan, for example, and from Sudan and Darfur as well as Palestine and Israel are invited to take this opportunity to let go of their suffering, grow in their understanding of each other, and seek reconciliation and forgiveness.
A colorful procession of artists will perform before departure in Jericho and during the journey to lift the hearts of the runners and make the journey a special experience. First aid and water supplies will be available.
The finish line is in the Old City of Jerusalem, where Rob Schrama is organizing joint activities that emphasize it as a city of reconciliation and unity, a city for everyone, for Muslims, Jews, and Christians, for Palestinians and Israelis. He is negotiating to set up spotlights to form a Pyramid of Light over the Old City and have people gather on the rooftop promenade for a time of silence and prayer. The following day, artists and spiritual leaders from around the world will join with local people in the Jerusalem Hug to encircle the walls of the Old City, as an example of oneness.
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