Accompanied by former New Jersey Governor Christie Whitman and former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt. Carter toured the village with a group that included the mayor of Nazareth, Ramez Jaraisy, staff, Nazareth Village board members, and friends of the Village.

The group stepped back in time as they toured first century houses, olive press, winepress and synagogue while the executive director of Nazareth Village Michael Hostetler guided the tour in a very dynamic way. The distinguished guest commented and asked questions all through the tour.

President Carter was surprised to discover Nazareth Village is located in the heart of Nazareth, just few blocks away from where it is thought Jesus grew up. The city of Nazareth is a crowded town with almost no open space. He expressed gratitude to the Edinburgh Medical Mission Society (owners of the Nazareth Hospital) for providing the plot of land (approximately ten acres) that Nazareth Village lies upon.

He asked about numbers of visitors to the site and the religious background of these visitors. He urged Nazareth Village staff to invite religious leaders beyond those of the Christian faith to visit the Village adding that he had already encouraged Muslim leaders in Jerusalem to do so.

During the visit it was clear that the Architect of Camp David peace treaties has long ties with Nazareth. Mr. Carter asked about the disputed land near the Basilica of Annunciation and if this issue was resolved. The mayor of Nazareth told the President that the dispute in Nazareth has never been between Christians and Muslims but rather an internal political matter. The president recalled his visit to Nazareth in 1972 and to the village of Iksal in the suburbs of Nazareth in 1986. He also mentioned his sister Ruth?s visit to the Nazareth Baptist School in the past.

President Carter showed interest first-century life. A first-century meal was offered with fresh bread baked over the open fire, thyme, olive oil, cheese and olives. The famous leader from Georgia known for his peanut fields, enjoyed the foods of the first-century, especially the bread dipped in olive oil and thyme. During the meal, the Nobel Peace Prize winner heard an explanation of the significance of gathering around the table for food in Middle Eastern cultures?a symbol of reconciliation between opponents.

The former American president was friendly and warm on this sunny, cool, Nazareth winter day. He gave attention to all he met, shook hands, signed autographs, and held a staff member?s baby for a photo.

Mr. Carter, a veteran Sunday school teacher, was impressed by the message of life and teachings of Jesus conveyed throughout the tour. He seemed touched by the Village scriptural cornerstone when it was read from Luke 4: 17-19 and also when the guide spoke about Jesus? mandate for his followers to love their enemies during a time of Roman occupation, violence and turmoil. The tour concluded with the presentation of a set replica of ancient ceramic oil lamps as symbols of light Jesus calls his followers to be.

Just before departing, President Carter expressed interest in returning to Nazareth with his wife Rosalynn for a future visit.