Invisible runner

Yesterday and today I was able to complete my 7.5 kilometer run around the Old City despite the heavy security for the Pope’s visit. Yesterday, May 12, the security was particularly heavy. As I ran, beginning at 6:15 a.m. I saw at least 500 soldiers and police out around the Old City. Apparently the Pope was going to be arriving from the direction of the Mt. of Olives, because the east side of the Old City was particularly heavily guarded. As I went by the Herod’s Gate, the Damascus Gate, and the New Gate, I didn’t see much out of the ordinary. However, when I got to Jaffa Gate, the Western Wall, and Lions' Gate, there was very heavy security. As a runner, I was able to follow my usual morning route and in some cases it was actually easier since the automobile traffic was pretty much limited to police trucks, vans, and buses transporting soldiers. Moving around the area is not this easy for some Palestinian Arab residents, for example, Sameer and Nadine.

For more on the reception the Pope Benedictus the 16th is receiving by the locals see Cool reception for Pope in Holy City. Today the Pope is in Bethlehem, Pope celebrates Mass in Bethlehem. Check the Pope's itinerary also.