Wed Sep 25 08:00:17 UTC 2024: ## Ancient Mosaic Sheds Light on Early Christianity at Museum of the Bible

**Washington, D.C. -** The Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., has unveiled a new exhibit showcasing the Megiddo Mosaic, a third-century archaeological find that offers a glimpse into the early days of Christianity.

The mosaic, discovered 20 years ago during construction of a new wing at the Megiddo prison in Israel, is the oldest known site of Christian worship ever unearthed. It features inscriptions, including the phrase “God Jesus Christ,” providing groundbreaking physical evidence of early Christian practices and beliefs.

The exhibit, titled “The Megiddo Mosaic: Foundations of Faith,” is a collaborative effort between the Museum of the Bible and the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). It includes an animated video depicting what the ancient site would have looked like, along with renderings of the building and its intricate mosaics.

The mosaic features early Christian symbols, including the fish, and names several patrons of the church. Notably, it highlights the prominent role of women in the early church, listing five women by name.

“This mosaic is one of the most important archaeological discoveries for understanding the early Christian church,” said Bobby Duke, interim chief curator and scholars initiative director at the Museum of the Bible. “It presents a wealth of new data for church historians, much like the Dead Sea Scrolls did for Bible scholars.”

The exhibit opened to the public on September 15th and will be on display for nine months. After its time in Washington, D.C., the mosaic will travel to other locations before returning to its original site in Israel for permanent exhibition.

“This exhibit is a testament to the rich history of Christianity in the Holy Land,” said Alegre Savariego, curator of the exhibition on behalf of the IAA. “It allows visitors to experience a tangible connection to the faith and practices of early Christians.”

The Museum of the Bible invites visitors to explore the “The Megiddo Mosaic: Foundations of Faith” exhibit and learn more about this significant archaeological discovery.

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