www.byzcath.org Forums News & Events Church News Ancient Church uncovered in Isreal

From CNN, first indications are the church dates to the third century.

Church Discovery [cnn.com]

This is a breathtaking find. It's been many years since I did archaeological work in Israel. Even then I was simply a grunt worker. Yet, I certainly don't understand this comment from the article.

"...the depiction of fish rather than the cross indicate that the church was no longer used by the fourth century, Tepper said."

Fish have always been used. Does Tepper know anything about the Church? Moreover, they've barely openned the field. How can one claim that crosses were not used?

This is absolutely fascinating.

Dan L

Dear Professor Dan,

Excellent point!

The fish is an ancient symbol that represents Christ and was especially used during times of Roman persecution of the Church.

In addition to comprising the letters of a Christogram that, together, spelled "fish" in Greek, the fish symbol was also a Baptismal and Eucharistic one.

The fish goes into deep water, and yet does not drown. Fishes, along with bread, were multiplied to feed the thousands by our Lord.

The problem here is that journalists who venture to comment on religious topics often have little religious background to deal with them adequately.

Unlike Tim Cuprisin though!

Cheers,

Alex

I read this article the other day. What an incredible find! I can't wait for more information to become available in the coming months/years. Fascinating.

I saw a fish etched by the early Christian(s) in the Catacomb of St. Peter's Basilica. It gave me goosebumps. It was probably about 1/2 of an inch (a little more or less).

SPDundas
Deaf Byzantine

Dear SPDundas,

I insist that all the priests I know where fish lapel pins . . .

And they like to wear them because people are fascinated by them and always ask about their meaning etc.

Alex

Very cool! Let's all pray that this church can be preserved.

Wouldn't it be amazing if it could be rehibilated into a Christian place of worship?

Logos Teen