A Goodnights Rest

Sukkot Part 2

Now, a little more than two years later and on our third trip to Israel, we find ourselves here during Sukkot. Our friend Rachel, whom we met on our last trip, knew how much this celebration meant to us. On our first day back in Jerusalem, she took us on a tour to see the sukkahs set up in neighborhoods all over the city. Each one was unique—some small and humble, others large and extravagant. From simple wooden structures to beautifully decorated spaces adorned with lights and intricate designs, every sukkah reflected the joy and devotion of those who built them.

It was incredible to witness how an ancient tradition continues to thrive, weaving together history, faith, and community in the heart of Jerusalem. We wanted to experience it all—every aspect of Sukkot. There was something profoundly special about being part of a celebration that God Himself ordained, one that His people have observed for generations, and that Jesus Himself would have celebrated.

God’s presence was undeniable, and He revealed so much more than we ever expected. We soaked in every moment, every lesson, every blessing.

For our first week in Jerusalem, we couldn’t have chosen a better place to stay than the Salesian Sisters’ Pilgrim House. Nestled just a short walk from Damascus Gate and only a block from City Hall, it provided the perfect setting for our journey—one filled with faith, history, and deep connection.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the world’s largest sukkah is set up every year right at City Hall in Jerusalem. It was just steps from our little room at the Pilgrims home. It was massive, and every night it came alive with public festivities. And let me tell you, they knew how to celebrate in that giant sukkah! 

One night, after a long and exhausting day of volunteer work with our friend Rachel, we decided to turn in early. But just as we settled into bed, we were startled by the sound of loud music and men singing. The noise was so powerful that we could feel the vibrations through the walls. Curious, we opened our window and looked down into the neighboring yard—only to discover a group of Orthodox Jewish men dancing and singing in joyful celebration. As it turned out, our room was directly next door to an Orthodox synagogue. It was quite a sight! The men and women were separated by a curtain, and we could see the women peeking through, catching glimpses of their husbands rejoicing.

Although we were exhausted, the excitement next door only filled us with joy and laughter. We laid there, soaking in the moment, smiling at the beautiful energy of Sukkot in Jerusalem. God is so good!!