Progressive Pilgrimage

Holy Land Sampler | November 5-15, 2019

hosted by Revs. Brett and Trish Winters | from $2,280 per person

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Dome

This 11-day journey to the Holy Land will bring you close encounters with the land of ancient Judaism and Christianity. Watch the scriptures come to life as you walk through the wilderness and pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. Experience modern religious traditions as we celebrate Shabbat with Jewish Israelis and walk down the Mount of Olives. Learn about the modern history of this land and meet people and organizations engaged in the work of peacemaking. Build deep and lasting relationships with others from your congregation through group reflections and shared worship. At Progressive Pilgrimage, every journey is carefully crafted to meet the interests and ability of the group. This itinerary offers a glance at what you can expect in your 11-day tour. Schedule may be adjusted for efficiency and guide availability.

November 5-15 Daily Itinerary

November 5 | Depart Kansas City

Your group will fly round-trip from Kansas City to Tel Aviv. Flight arrangements are still pending and will be updated here in mid to late December 2018.

Those wishing to originate from an airport other than Kansas City should indicate that on the registration form. In those cases, any fare increase will be invoiced to the traveler.

November 6 | Arrival

Group members will arrive at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. In the afternoon, a private coach will transport the group from Tel Aviv to our guesthouse on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. After a brief orientation, enjoy a traditional Middle Eastern dinner and overnight accommodations.

November 7 | Nazareth and Cana

Begin the day in the Arab-Israeli city of Nazareth for the Basilica of the Annunciation, the traditional site of the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary. An off-the-beaten-path tour of the Old City visits local artisans, samples local cuisine, and enters the White Mosque. The Synagogue Church in Nazareth is, according to tradition, built over the remains of a synagogue from Jesus’ time. Today it is home to a Melkite Christian congregation and offers a quiet place for prayer.

In the afternoon, visit the small town town of Cana and tour the Franciscan church there. Those wishing to do so may renew their wedding vows. In the evening, return to the Sea of Galilee for dinner and overnight accommodations.

November 8 | Sea of Galilee

Today we explore Jesus’ adult ministry in Galilee. Highlights of the day include the Mount of Beatitudes, the churches at Taghba, the ruins of Capernaum (home of Simon Peter), a lunch of “St. Peter’s Fish,” a museum with a 2,000 year-old boat, and a sunset boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. Close the day by celebrating Shabbat with a local Jewish community. Enjoy one more dinner and the final overnight at this location.

November 9 | River Jordan, Qumran, Masada, Dead Sea

This morning we leave the Sea of Galilee behind and head south toward Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Along the way, we will stop at the traditional site of Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan where pilgrims wishing to do so can renew their own baptismal vows. We will visit the archaeological ruins at Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in 1949. Climb (by gondola!) to the top of Masada, Harod the Great’s stunning desert retreat/fortress, and take in expansive views of the Judean Desert and Dead See. End the day with a relaxing bob in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea and then head to Bethlehem for dinner and overnight accommodations.

November 10 | Worship, Bethlehem

In addition to being the birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem was home to Ruth and King David in the Hebrew Bible. Today we explore this Palestinian city beginning on the hills of Beit Sahour (Shepherds’ Field). In the mid-morning we will worship with the Christian community at Christmas Lutheran Church where Rev. Dr. Munther Isaac is pastor and Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb leads the affiliated organizations including International Center of Bethlehem, Dar al-Kalima Health Center, and Dar al-Kalima College. After worship we will join Noor Women’s Empowerment Group for a lesson in traditional Palestinian cooking and then share together the meal we prepare. We will end the day at the Church of the Nativity, the traditional site of Jesus’ birth and share together in a moment of prayer. Dinner and overnight accommodations in Bethlehem.

November 11 | Temple Mount, Western Wall

Today we head into the Old City of Jerusalem to explore historic Judaism and Islam. Be begin at the ancient Temple complex built first by Solomon, rebuilt under Ezra and Nehemiah, expanded by Herod the Great, and destroyed by Rome in 70 CE. Today the site is also home to the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam. After leaving the Temple Mount, we will sit on the Temple’s Southern Steps and pray at the Western Wall. In the afternoon, your group will either tour the archaeological ruins at the City of David – the oldest section of Jerusalem or meet with ultra-Orthodox Jews to learn about their religious and social lives (to be determined by your group leader.) Return to Bethlehem for dinner and overnight accommodations.

November 12 | Mt. of Olives and Mt. Zion

Begin the day atop the Mount of Olives, just outside Jerusalem’s old city, pausing to reflect on important moments in Jesus’ ministry including the Ascension, the Lord’s Prayer, and the Garden of Gethsemane. After lunch in the Old City, we continue to the area known as Mt. Zion to visit churches associate with Jesus’ betrayal by Peter (St. Peter in Gallicantu), the Last Supper and Pentecost (Cenacle). Celebrate evening vespers with the monks at Dormitian Abbey before returning to our hotel in Bethlehem for dinner and overnight accommodations.

November 13 | Tomb of Jesus, Jerusalem Old City

Return to the Old City of Jerusalem today to experience the last day of Jesus’ life. We will walk the traditional Via Dolorosa, updated with modern reflections from local clergy and laity. Spend time in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre where you can touch the bedrock of Golgotha and enter the traditional tomb of Jesus. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Old City on your own. For our last two nights, the group will have dinner and overnight accommodations at the gates of the Old City.

November 14 | Israel Museum, Yad Vashem, Knesset

Close out your trip by considering the modern state of Israel. We will visit the impressive Israel Museum with its magnificent collection of classical and modern art, judaica, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. Tour the Knesset, the home of the Israeli parliament. Finally, spend time at Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust museum and memorial. Return to our Old City hotel for evening free time before a celebratory group dinner and overnight accommodations.

November 15 | Departure

Transfer to Tel Aviv for return air travel to Kansas City. (Flight information pending.)

What’s Included

The total land cost for the eleven-day pilgrimage is $2,280 per person, double occupancy. Group size is limited to 22 participants. A full price including round-trip airfare from Kansas City will be available in mid-December and will be updated here.

bedGuest House Lodging schooolbusGround Transportation planeExpert Local Guides
paper-plateAll meals ticketsEntrance Fees bookPre-trip Educational Resources
prayer-handsOrdained Spiritual Guide coinsGratuity for Drivers and Guides

Single occupancy is available upon request for a surcharge of $420.

A $500/person deposit is due at time of registration, payable online via PayPal or credit card. Full payment is due by September 1, 2019. Participants will be invoiced for the balance due which may be paid by check, ACH, or credit card. Credit card payments of the remaining balance will incur a 3% fee.

Terms and Conditions

Please read the complete Terms and Conditions online. ENROLLMENT IN AND PAYMENT FOR THE TOUR CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE CONDITIONS AND STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY.

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Celtic Music, Spirituality & Peacemaking | October 17-26, 2018

with Kiran Young Wimberly & The McGraths | from $2,580 per person

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Crogh-Patrick

Go to the heart of Ireland with this ten-day exploration of Celtic music, spirituality, and peacemaking. The musical portion of our journey begins with Kiran Young Wimberly and the McGraths whose Celtic Psalms are beautifully soul-stirring. We will also listen and learn at the School of Traditional Irish Music in County Donegal, and every city we visit holds opportunities to hear traditional and modern Irish music. Throughout the trip, we will explore pre-Christian, early Christian, and modern Celtic spirituality, allowing time to pray and reflect. Highlights include the Stone Age passage tomb at Newgrange, the Corrymeela Community on the Antrim Coast, the Columba Heritage Center in Derry, and the peaceful Glendalough Monastic Site in County Wicklow. Finally, learn about the political history of Northern Ireland, and hear from individuals and organizations who are working to build peace and strengthen their communities. The whole trip is dotted with spectacular scenery and warm Irish culture.

October 17-26 Daily Itinerary

October 17 | Departure

Departing from your airport of choice, board your overnight flight to Dublin Airport in the Republic of Ireland. This itinerary does not include airfare, so you should book a flight arriving in Dublin not later than 9:00am on Thursday, October 18. Progressive Pilgrimage can coordinate your air travel upon request.

October 18 | Newgrange, Navan Fort, Celtic Spirituality

This morning we arrive in Dublin Airport where we will be met by our coach driver for our onward journey to Armagh.
En route we will tour the passage tombs at Knowth and/or Newgrange, Stone Age monuments dating from 3,200 B.C., making them older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Knowth and Newgrange provide an excellent introduction to ancient pre-Christian spirituality of the area.

After lunch (included) at Newgrange, we will continue to Armagh for an introduction to Celtic Spirituality with Rev. Grace Clunie of the Celtic Spirituality Center. At the same locaiton, the Navan Fort one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha. Legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales. Dinner and overnight at Armagh City Hotel.

October 19 | Downpatrick, Armagh, Celtic Psalms

Today we begin with a visit to the town of Downpatrick and the St. Patrick Centre for an introduction to Ireland’s patron saint. We will also visit Saint Patrick’s cathedral located on the hill where the saint was buried after his death in 461 A.D. According to tradition, St. Columba and St. Brigid are also buried here. After lunch (included), we return to Armagh to visit additional sites associated with St. Patrick and early Christianity in Ireland.

In the early evening, we will be joined by Kiran Young Wimberly and the McGraths. The group has released three albums setting Psalms to traditional Celtic melodies. We will learn more about their songwriting and composing process and the history of Celtic music while sampling the music of Celtic Psalms. Enjoy dinner on your own at one of Armagh’s restaurants. Overnight at Armagh City Hotel.

October 20 | Belfast, The Troubles, and Peacemaking

We will spend time today learning more about “The Troubles” that plagued Northern Ireland from the 1960s through 1998. With guides representing both Unionist and Republican ideals, you will receive a through introduction to the conflict and its historic origins. We will visit both Unionist and Republican neighborhoods including Falls and Shankill Roads, the peace murals, and the Crumlin Road Jail and Courthouse. We will also meet with local organizations who have been doing peacebuilding work in Belfast and the surrounding region. Lunch included.

The focus on peacebuilding continues into the evening as we transfer to the Corrymeela Community in Ballycastle on the Antrim Coast. Corrymeela is Northern Ireland’s oldest peace and reconciliation organisation, promoting tolerance between people of differing backgrounds and beliefs. Much of their work is conducted at the center in Ballycastle, but Corrymeela is a dispersed community of people committed to living by the community’s values. Dinner and overnight at Corrymeela.

October 21 | Worship, Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills Distillery

We begin this Sunday morning by worshiping with the community at Corrymeela.

After worship we will visit of one of Europe’s most magnificent coastlines and the unique rock formations that have, for millions of years, stood as a natural rampart against the unbridled ferocity of Atlantic storms. The rugged symmetry of the columns and the associated folklore never fails to intrigue and inspire visitors. Those who desire may participate in a hike along the coastline. A picnic lunch is included.

In the nearby village of Bushmills, you’ll find the oldest working distillery in Ireland. At Bushmills, family and friends have worked over 400 years, keeping to the philosophy that hand crafting small batches is the way to produce beautifully smooth Irish whiskey. Enjoy a tour of the distillery and the option for a tasting.

From Bushmills we continue to Derry where we will enjoy dinner and overnight accommodations at Derry City Hotel.

October 22 | St. Columba and Peacemaking in Derry

St. Columba (Colum Cille in Gaelic), founder of the famous Iona Abbey, is also known as the founder of Derry. The Columcille Centre provides an excellent introduction to his life and ministry. Our group will also visit the St. Augustine’s Monastery and the Long Tower Church, sites associated with early Christianity in Derry.

After lunch (included), we remain in Derry but switch from ancient Christian sites to the more recent political history of the city. Our guide will take us on a walk around the city walls to introduce how the city came to be divided. We will visit the Bogside neighborhood, site of the Bloody Sunday massacre and now home to 12 giant murals known as the People’s Gallery. We will conclude the day at the Holywell Trust, a center for peace and community building. Here we will here the stories of local people engaged in the work of healing themselves and their community after 40+ years of conflict. Enjoy dinner on your own and overnight accommodations at Derry City Hotel.

October 23 | Traditional Music, Sheepdog Demo, Sliabh Liag

Take in many aspects of Irish culture and nature today as we venture into County Donegal. We will begin the morning at the Donegal School of Traditional Irish Music in Letterkenny to learn more about the roots of Celtic music, the instruments, and hear samples of various styles within the Celtic tradition. Lunch is included.

Next we visit Drumcorry, a working farm with cows and sheep. Like most farmers, Patsy grew up with dogs around him on the farm and he was used to working with them. He was lucky to grow up in an area well known for the number of shepherds who are serious collie men. He has shown off his skills at the agricultural shows throughout the country and competed nationally at championship sheepdogs trials. Patsy is a sheepdog handler who delights in thrilling guests from all over the world with his demonstrations.

Finally, take in the natural splendor at Sliabh Liag on the Wild Atlantic Way. Known as the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe, they reach a height of 1,972 feet – almost twice as high as the Eiffel Tower in Paris and nearly three times the height of the famous Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. Return to Derry for dinner on your own and overnight accommodations.

October 24 | Monasterboice, Trinity College, Book of Kells

From Derry, we will depart toward Dublin, stopping en route at the early Christian settlement of Monasterboice. It was founded in the late 5th century by Saint Buithe and was an important centre of religion and learning. The site houses two churches built in the 14th century or later and an earlier round tower, but it is most famous for its 10th century high crosses.

From Monasterboice we will continue to Dublin for a visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells. Located in the heart of Dublin City, a walk through the cobbled stones of Trinity College Dublin will bring visitors back to the 18th century, when the magnificent Old Library building was constructed which displays the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure and the world’s most famous medieval manuscript. The 9th century book is a richly decorated copy of the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. It is one of only a few such manuscripts that survived Viking raids.

Before turning in for the night, our group will enjoy a festive traditional Irish dinner including music and storytelling. Overnight at Camden Court Hotel.

October 25 | Glendalough Monsastic Site, Dublin

Glendalough is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. This early Christian monastic settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and from this developed the “Monastic City”. Most of the buildings that survive today date from the 10th through 12th centuries. Despite attacks by Vikings over the years, Glendalough thrived as one of Ireland’s great ecclesiastical foundations and schools of learning until the Normans destroyed the monastery in 1214 A.D. and the dioceses of Glendalough and Dublin were united. The visit includes a guided pilgrimage walk with ample time for prayer and reflection. Lunch is included.

You’ll have the afternoon and evening to explore Dublin on your own. This capital of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin is on Ireland’s east coast at the mouth of the River Liffey. Its historic buildings include Dublin Castle, dating to the 13th century, and imposing St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1191. City parks include landscaped St. Stephen’s Green and huge Phoenix Park, containing the Dublin Zoo. The National Museum of Ireland explores Irish heritage and culture. Enjoy dinner on your own in one of Dublin’s many restaurants or pubs. Overnight at Camden Court Hotel.

October 26 | Return to USA

After enjoying your last Irish breakfast, transfer to Dublin Airport for your return flight to the United States. The included airport transfer is for flights departing after 9:00 A.M. Those with earlier departures will require a taxi, public bus, or private shuttle. Progressive Pilgrimage can assist with these arrangements.

Those wishing to stay on longer in Dublin may add additional days to their itinerary or book excursions to other locations in Ireland. Contact us for more information.

What’s Included

The total land cost for the ten-day pilgrimage is $2,580 per person, double occupancy. Group size is limited to 20 participants.

hotel-iconFirst Class Hotels schooolbusGround Transportation planeExpert Local Guides
paper-plateBreakfast daily, 7 lunches, 4 dinners ticketsEntrance Fees bookPre-trip Educational Resources
suitecaseHotel Baggage Transfers coinsGratuity for Drivers and Guides prayer-handsOrdained Spiritual Guide

Single occupancy is available upon request for a surcharge of $450.

Airfare is not included in the tour price. Participants should purchase flights that land in Dublin not later than 9:00 A.M. on October 18. Return flights should depart Dublin not earlier than 9:00 A.M. on October 26 to take advantage of the included airport transfer. Travelers may purchase airfare on their own or work with Progressive Pilgrimage’s airline partner, Mission Travel, to complete their airfare purchase.

A $500/person deposit is due at time of registration, payable online via PayPal or credit card. Full payment is due by August 17, 2018. Participants will be invoiced for the balance due which may be paid by check, ACH, or credit card. Credit card payments of the remaining balance will incur a 3% fee.

Terms and Conditions

Please read the complete Terms and Conditions online. ENROLLMENT IN AND PAYMENT FOR THE TOUR CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE CONDITIONS AND STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY.

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Holy Land Sampler | September 18-27, 2017

Charleston Atlantic Presbytery | from $3,750 per person | Register by June 5

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IMG_6100-DS

This 10-day journey to the Holy Land will bring you close encounters with the land of ancient Judaism and Christianity. Watch the scriptures come to life as you walk through the wilderness and pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. Experience modern religious traditions as we celebrate Shabbat with Jewish Israelis and walk down the Mount of Olives. Build deep and lasting relationships with others from your presbytery through group reflections and shared worship. At Progressive Pilgrimage, every journey is carefully crafted to meet the interests and ability of the group. This itinerary offers a glance at what you can expect in your 10-day tour. Schedule may be adjusted for efficiency and guide availability.

September 18-27 Daily Itinerary

September 18 | Depart USA

We depart as a group from Charleston International Airport on an overnight flight to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.

September 19 | Arrival in Nazareth

A private coach will transport the group from Tel Aviv to Nazareth, the boyhood home of Jesus. En route, we will stop for a striking overlook of the Jezreel Valley and orientation to the region. Enjoy a traditional Middle Eastern dinner and overnight in the historic old city of Nazareth for two nights.

September 20 | Nazareth & Mar Elias Institute

In the morning, visit the Mar Elias Educational Institute in Ibillin, dedicated to educating Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Druze youth in the ways of peace. Our visit includes a meeting with Archbishop Elias Chacour, author of Blood Brothers and founder of the Institute. After lunch in the Mar Elias guesthouse, we enjoy and “off the beaten path” tour of the Arab-Israeli city of Nazareth and the Basilica of the Annunciation, commemorating the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary. We will visit local artisans and sample local delicacies with free time to explore Nazareth in the evening before dinner and overnight at Villa Nazareth hotel.

September 21 | Sea of Galilee

Today we explore Jesus’ adult ministry in Galilee led by a Palestinian Christian guide. Highlights include the Mount of Beatitudes, the churches at Taghba, the ruins of Capernaum (home of Simon Peter), a lunch of “St. Peter’s Fish,” a museum with a 2,000 year-old boat, and a sunset boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. Transfer to Jerusalem for dinner and overnight accommodations in a historic inn inside the Christian Quarter of the Old City for the duration of the pilgrimage.

September 22 | Bethlehem

A Palestinian guide will lead our visits to Bethlehem holy sites beginning with the Church of the Nativity, the traditional site of Jesus’ birth. In the late morning, we visit with a cooperative of Palestinian women who are caring for disabled children. After a tour of their neighborhood, they will lead us in a cooking class that concludes in a delicious lunch. Following lunch, we visit the Shepherd’s Field church and an olive wood workshop. During our time in Bethlehem, you may also spot some original Banksy artwork. We close the day by joining a local Jewish congregation in Jerusalem for Shabbat worship services.

September 23 | Via Dolorosa & Holy Sepulchre

Begin the day on the Mount of Olives, just outside Jerusalem’s old city, pausing to reflect on important moments in Jesus’ ministry. We continue to remember the events of Holy Week as we walk the Via Dolorosa and pray in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the traditional site of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. End the day by visiting with the Franciscan brothers of Dormition Abbey and a celebration of the Lord’s Supper at the traditional site of the Upper Room.

September 24 | Worship, Yad Vashem, Israel Museum

This morning we will worship with a local Christian community in Jerusalem in either English or Arabic. In the afternoon, travelers may visit the Israel Museum (home of the Dead Sea Scrolls) and Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, or choose free time to explore Jerusalem’s Old City.

September 25 | Jordan River, Masada, Dead Sea

Begin the day with a visit the site of Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan where pilgrims wishing to do so can renew their own baptismal vows. Our group will travel to the ancient Jewish fortress of Masada, built by Herod the Great. After touring Masada, experience the ruins of Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. End the day with a relaxing bob in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.

September 26 | Jerusalem Temple

End your pilgrimage with a visit the ruins of the ancient Temple built first by Solomon, rebuilt under Ezra and Nehemiah, expanded by Herod the Great, and destroyed by Rome in 70 CE. Led by an expert local Jewish guide, we will explore the original foundations of Jerusalem dating to before King David, sit on the Temple’s Southern Steps, and pray at the Western Wall. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Old City market before a celebratory group final group dinner.

September 27 | Departure

Transfer from Jerusalem to Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv for return flight to Charleston, SC. Those participating in a Petra excursion will depart from Jerusalem.

What’s Included

The total land and air cost for this pilgrimage is $3,750 per person, double occupancy with round-trip airfare from Charleston, SC.

planeRound-trip Airfare paper-plateAll Meals, Including Lunches schooolbusGround Transportation
hotel-iconFirst Class Hotels ticketsEntrance Fees + Local Guides bookPre-trip Educational Resources
coinsGratuity for Drivers and Guides suitecaseHotel Baggage Transfers prayer-handsOrdained Spiritual Guide

Single occupancy is available upon request for a surcharge of $470.

A $500/person deposit is due at time of registration, payable online via PayPal or credit card. Full payment is due by July 15, 2017. Participants will be invoiced for the balance due which may be paid by check, ACH, or credit card. Credit card payments of the remaining balance will incur a 3% fee.

September Excursions

One Day Tel Aviv Add-On | $139 per person

Add an additional day of touring or relaxing at your own pace in Tel Aviv. This is a thoroughly modern city filled with lush gardens, history and art museums, and gorgeous beaches. Add an extra night at a beach-front hotel in central Tel Aviv to give yourself a little more time to unwind at the end of your pilgrimage.

This excursion includes one additional night (double occupancy) in a beach-view Tel Aviv hotel with breakfast and transportation between the hotel and Ben Gurion Airport. Travelers may add as many additional nights as desired.

Three-Day Petra | $640 per person

Experience the treasures of Jordan on this exciting tour of the ancient cities of Madaba and Petra. Beautiful desert landscapes and fascinating historical sites await you. On September 27, travel from Jerusalem to Jordan where you begin atop Mount Nebo before continuing to the ruins of Madaba with its magnificent Byzantine mosaics, including the Madaba map. Enjoy a traditional meal and stay overnight in a Petra hotel. On September 28, you will have a guided introduction to Petra followed by free time to explore on your own. Return to the same Petra hotel for overnight accommodations. On September 29, make an early departure from Petra, arriving to Tel Aviv in time for your flight to the United States.

This excursion includes round-trip ground transportation between Israel and Jordan and throughout Jordan; overnight accommodations in Petra (double occupancy); breakfast and dinner daily; entrance fees; licensed guides; and border assistance. Does not include border fees of $101 US dollars, additional meals, or tips. Single supplement is $110/person.

Terms and Conditions

Please read the complete Terms and Conditions online. ENROLLMENT IN AND PAYMENT FOR THE TOUR CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE CONDITIONS AND STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY.

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Holy Land Sampler | October 16-25, 2017

Presbyteries of Boston and Northern New England | from $3,490 | register by June 25

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IMG_6100-DS

This 10-day journey to the Holy Land will bring you close encounters with the land of ancient Judaism and Christianity. Watch the scriptures come to life as you walk through the wilderness and pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. Experience modern religious traditions as we celebrate Shabbat with Jewish Israelis and walk down the Mount of Olives. At Progressive Pilgrimage, every journey is carefully crafted to meet the interests and ability of the group. This itinerary offers a glance at what you can expect in your 10-day tour. Schedule may be adjusted for efficiency and guide availability.

October 16-25 Daily Itinerary

October 16 | Depart the USA

We depart as a group from Boston Logan International Airport on an overnight flight to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.

October 17 | Arrival in Jerusalem

A private coach will transport the group from Tel Aviv to Jerusaelm for orientation. En route, we will stop at the Mount of Olives for a striking overlook of the city. Enjoy a traditional Middle Eastern dinner and overnight in Jerusalem through October 23.

October 18 | Jerusalem Temple

Today we visit the ruins of the ancient Temple built first by Solomon, rebuilt under Ezra and Nehemiah, expanded by Herod the Great, and destroyed by Rome in 70 CE. Led by an expert local Jewish guide, we will explore the original foundations of Jerusalem dating to before King David, sit on the Temple’s Southern Steps, and pray at the Western Wall. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Old City market.

October 19 | Masada, Dead Sea & Jordan River

Begin the day with a visit the site of Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan where pilgrims wishing to do so can renew their own baptismal vows. Our group will travel to the ancient Jewish fortress of Masada, built by Herod the Great. After touring Masada, experience the ruins of Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. End the day with a relaxing bob in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.

October 20 | Via Dolorosa & Holy Sepulchre

Begin the day on the Mount of Olives, just outside Jerusalem’s old city, pausing to reflect on important moments in Jesus’ ministry. We continue to remember the events of Holy Week as we walk the Via Dolorosa and pray in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the traditional site of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. In the evening, we will gather to celebrate Shabbat at a local synagogue.

October 21 | Bethlehem

Visit Bethlehem holy sites including Rachel’s Tomb, the Church of the Nativity, and Shepherd’s Fields. In the afternoon, meet with Rev. Mitri Raheb of Christmas Lutheran Church, visit with a local Palestinian shopkeeper, or learn about the experiences of Palestinian refugees at the Aida refugee camp.

October 22 | Worship, Yad Vashem, Israel Museum

This morning we will worship with a local Christian community in Jerusalem in either English or Arabic. In the afternoon, travelers may visit the Israel Museum (home of the Dead Sea Scrolls) and Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, or choose free time to explore Jerusalem’s Old City.

October 23 | Sea of Galilee

Today we depart Jerusalem to explore Jesus’ adult ministry in Galilee including the Mount of Beatitudes, the churches at Taghba, the ruins of Capernaum (home of Simon Peter), a lunch of “St. Peter’s Fish,” a museum with a 2,000 year-old boat, and a sunset boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. Transfer to Nazareth for dinner and overnight accommodations.

October 24 | Nazareth and Ibillin

Enjoy and “off the beaten path” tour of the Arab-Israeli city of Nazareth and the Basilica of the Annunciation, commemorating the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary. In the afternoon, visit the Mar Elias Educational Institute in Ibillin, dedicated to educating Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Druze youth in the ways of peace. Meet with Archbishop Elias Chacour, pending availability.

October 25 | Departure

Transfer from Nazareth to Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv for return flight to Boston. Those participating in a Petra excursion will depart from Nazareth.

What’s Included

The total land and air cost for this pilgrimage is $3,490 per person, double occupancy with round-trip airfare from Boston.

planeRound-trip Airfare paper-plateAll Meals, Including Lunches schooolbusGround Transportation
hotel-iconFirst Class Hotels ticketsEntrance Fees + Local Guides bookPre-trip Educational Resources
coinsGratuity for Drivers and Guides suitecaseHotel Baggage Transfers prayer-handsOrdained Spiritual Guide

Single occupancy is available upon request for a surcharge of $420.

A $500/person deposit is due at time of registration, payable online via PayPal or credit card. Full payment is due by August 15, 2017. Participants will be invoiced for the balance due which may be paid by check, ACH, or credit card. Credit card payments of the remaining balance will incur a 3% fee.

October Excursions

One Day Tel Aviv Add-On | $139 per person

Add an additional day of touring or relaxing at your own pace in Tel Aviv. This is a thoroughly modern city filled with lush gardens, history and art museums, and gorgeous beaches. Add an extra night at a beach-front hotel in central Tel Aviv to give yourself a little more time to unwind at the end of your pilgrimage.

This excursion includes one additional night (double occupancy) in a beach-view Tel Aviv hotel with breakfast and transportation between the hotel and Ben Gurion Airport. Travelers may add as many additional nights as desired.

Three Day Petra | $640 per person

Experience the treasures of Jordan on this exciting tour of the ancient cities of Madaba and Petra. Beautiful desert landscapes and fascinating historical sites await you. On October 25, travel from Nazareth to Jordan where you begin atop Mount Nebo before continuing to the ruins of Madaba with its magnificent Byzantine mosaics, including the Madaba map. Enjoy a traditional meal and stay overnight in a Petra hotel. On October 26, you will have a guided introduction to Petra followed by free time to explore on your own. Return to the same Petra hotel for overnight accommodations. On October 27, make an early departure from Petra, arriving to Tel Aviv in time for your flight to the United States.

This excursion includes round-trip ground transportation between Israel and Jordan and throughout Jordan; overnight accommodations in Petra (double occupancy); breakfast and dinner daily; entrance fees; licensed guides; and border assistance. Does not include border fees of $101 US dollars, additional meals, or tips. Single supplement is $110/person.

Terms and Conditions

Please read the complete Terms and Conditions online. ENROLLMENT IN AND PAYMENT FOR THE TOUR CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE CONDITIONS AND STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY.

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Your Guides



Eric and Heather Doss are the founders of Progressive Pilgrimage and will be your guides for every journey. Eric has a Masters Degree in History and loves to teach. Heather is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and will provide spiritual, cultural, and logistical support.

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