Sharon Seal, professional chef and Ashtead resident, explains how three visits to Israel have affected her Christian faith.

"Each time there is something new to discover and experience. Jerusalem is a city like no other - passionate and vibrant, where people really live out their beliefs. But you have to look beyond the commercialism to see what's really going on.

"The first time I visited Israel, it really helped to bring the Bible alive. Seeing Lake Galilee in the north, largely unchanged since Roman times, and the city of Jerusalem in the south helped me to visualise and understand the way of life back then much better.

"My latest visit, also included a week in Egypt. It enabled me to compare life in ancient cultures - the opulence of the pharaohs and kings, and the straightforwardness of the life of Jesus and his followers. I found it very moving seeing the place where He was crucified, and the visit deepened my sense of love for Him."

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