“Between Heaven and Earth” by Daniel Rossing, Holy Land Book

This book provides an extensive and up-to-date picture of the Christian communities, shrines and sanctuaries in the Land. It is a must-read book for both researchers and students, tour guides, tourists, anyone interested in Israel, and in particular in the Christian presence in the Holy Land. The sites are grouped in four geographic regions from north to south, with shrines of the holy city of Jerusalem presented in a separate chapter. The introduction provides religious, historical and cultural backgrounds vital to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sites presented. There is a brief review of the history of Christian presence in the Holy Land, a portrayal of the diverse Christian communities today, and an exploration of the nature and significance of pilgrimage to the Holy Land throughout the ages. “Between Heaven and Earth” is the summation of the life-work of the late Daniel Rossing, researcher, lecturer and expert on the Christian communities in the Holy Land, and winner of the Mount Zion prize for the promotion of interreligious relations in Israel for his 40 years of work in the field. Rossing served as the Director of the Christian Communities Department of the Ministry of Religions and in the Jerusalem Foundation, and founded the Jerusalem Center for Jewish-Christian Relations (JCJCR). Reviews: “This volume is illustrated with stunning images and impressive texts of one hundred Christian monasteries, ancient and modern, from among the “holy places”, grouped into four geographic regions, with a special chapter dedicated to the Holy City of Jerusalem.” (Custodia Terrae Sanctae) “Between Heaven and Earth is a fresh look at places in the Holy Land. Rossing’s book stands out for its colorful and respectful presentation of Christian sites…” (John Black, Jerusalem Post, Christian Edition – Part 1)