To the Ends of the Earth

Centurion Claudius newly retired from the legion, living in his Capernaum villa, is informed of the illness of his estranged father, Senator Julius Antonius and is summoned back to Rome. At Jerusalem in the meanwhile disciples of the crucified Jesus of Nazareth proclaim He has risen, facing retribution at hands of High Priest Caiaphas. Thousands become believers, some arrested and tortured, others managing to escape the city. Phillip and David Ben Ezra confront evil magician Simon Magus at Sychar, as news of the risen Christ spreads. Saul of Tarsus sent by Caiaphas en route to Damascus to round up followers of 'The Way' has a miraculous vision of the risen Christ-becomes a follower.Physician Luke learning of wonderful events surrounding Jesus of Nazareth now contacts Jesus mother, Mary and hears details from her own lips which he records for posterity. The story weaves back and forth among these characters, culminating in confrontation between Claudius and the power crazed young Emperor Caligula, as followers of 'The Way' spread into Rome, where Jesus foremost apostle, Peter arrives!The story will continue in-THE ROAD TO ROME.