At end of Israeli visit, Bush tours museum of biblical-era artifacts

Published: 2008-05-16

JERUSALEM (CNS) -- Capping off his three-day visit to Israel, U.S. President George W. Bush toured a museum showcasing biblical-era artifacts that trace the common roots of the three monotheistic religions. Amanda Weiss, managing director of the Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem, said the president and first lady Laura Bush were inspired by the collection that speaks about biblical history. She took the couple through the museum's permanent exhibition May 16, making stops in the Gallery of Written Communication, which chronicles the development of writing from its earliest origins through the alphabet, and at the special exhibit Three Faces of Monotheism. "He is one of the more personable, warm, friendly people I have taken through the museum," said Weiss. "He asked a lot of questions, made lots of comments and was very interested." Bush was in Israel to mark the nation's 60th anniversary and attend Israeli President Shimon Peres' special "Facing Tomorrow" conference.

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