Overview of December 17:
Camping now by the site where it is said that Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist, and the hill from which tradition says Elijah was taken up into heaven (2 Kings 2:11), the journey takes a break from walking to explore these historic sights.

Returning to camp after the tour the journeymen are met with four new pilgrims: Sanjeev Parma from the Charlotte Eagles soccer club; Mark Wainwright, Robin's son; Gail Martinez, Andre and Jake's mother; and her youngest son, Jason.

Later in the day the journeymen return thanks to their Arab friends who have been taking care of and serving them for the past several weeks, with a symbolic washing of their feet.

The day closes with a Christmas celebration when a small group from the Peace Corps join the journeymen in their camp and sing carols together.