Cana of Galilee

Cana of Galilee

ABOUT CANA OF GALILEE

“What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which He revealed His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.” – John 2:11

Jesus’ first miracle of changing water into wine during a wedding is said to have occurred in Cana in Galilee: (John 2:1-11). Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding feast. After all the wine had been drunk, Jesus then performed his first miracle after his mother, Mary, implored him.

“Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.”

Mary persisted and Jesus turned more than 550 liters of water (the equivalent of  over 730 bottles) into fine wine, saving the celebration.

According to Christian theology Jesus’ first miracle symbolizes the sanctity of marriage. Jesus intervened, saving the wedding hosts from an embarrassing situation and allowing for humble rejoicing amongst the wedding guests. (Catholic Encyclopedia).

The geographical location of Cana has been disputed and there are three potential sites.  

The commemoration of the miracle takes place at Kefer-Kenna, three miles from Nazareth.

Based on the testimony of early pilgrims, such as St. Jerome, the Franciscans established themselves in Kefer-Kenna in 1641. It was their belief that excavations recovered beneath the present church in the early 1900s confirm the presence of a Jewish-Christian synagogue.

Evidence collected from the site includes the remains of living structures from the 1st century, a basilica and a small stone cistern.

Naturally, Kafr Cana has become a coveted venue for weddings and wedding vow renewals and Cana wine is a hot commodity. Over 200,000 tourists visit Kafr Cana annually. Streets in the center of town have been renovated and a promenade with plazas and rest spots has been built to accommodate the influx of tourists. Facades and courtyards have been attractively refinished. Commercial and hotel facilities have been constructed allowing for visitors to experience both the luxury of modern tourism and a meaningful religious experience.

Sources:

[1] http://www.seetheholyland.net/cana/

[2] http://www.goisrael.com/Tourism_Eng/WhereToGo/North/Pages/Cana%20%20%20chr.aspx