Please join us as we travel to the Israel to see Old and New Testament sites and learn about and experience the Holy Land. Please for more information.
This trip is an amazing opportunity to visit key biblical sites across Israel, learning about and experiencing the land where Jesus walked and lived. Anyone who has been to Israel can tell you that this can be a life changing trip. Your faith will be strengthened as you get closer to the history that can feel so distant. Brett Andrews and Pat Furgerson will be leading this trip with our instructor, Dr. Mark Ziese. They will all challenge you as they engage your heart and mind during this 10 day trip.
We’ll see sites ranging from the Old City of Jerusalem to fresh digs like Magdala on the Sea of Galilee. We’ve chosen sites with clear Biblical meaning to bring life to your reading as you picture the places where Jesus met the disciples, where they came to understand who He was, and where He ultimately died for our sins and rose again, conquering death’s hold on both Him and all of us. We’ll hotel in Tiberias on the Sea of Galilee and inside the Old City of Jerusalem affording you the opportunity to experience Jerusalem in an up close and personal way.
There’s so much we could say about the trip, but what you really need to know now is that space is limited and we expect to sell out. Check your calendar and let us know what questions you have. Total trip cost are typically around $4,500. The fees paid to New Life and the tour company include a cash/check discount and most trip expenses except souvenirs, lunches, baggage fees, and meals on the airplanes. You may also want to budget for souvenirs. for more details or click below to pre-register. Once we receive and approve your pre-registration we’ll send you full registration instructions. Whether you come on your own, with family members, or invite a friend, we are sure you won’t come back disappointed.
I became a believer in high school, making disciples is not a new concept to me. I’ve led small groups for years and the Lord has walked with me through several trials and dark seasons. Going to Israel, the Lord adjusted my vision so to speak and gave me a much deeper understanding of His Word.
To SEE where stories happened, to STAND where history was made, to GRASP the meanings behind parables and stories brings a whole new dynamic to my Bible reading and ultimately my walk with the Lord.
More than once, when standing at a site, hearing His Word and reflecting on what was being said and taught I became overwhelmed as the Holy Spirit removed walls and barriers that I didn’t even know I had. I am able to love the Lord deeper and I have a stronger passion for His work and His children!
Since I’ve been back, each day at work I have felt a tug at my heart numerous times, as I realize I need to do things differently. I need to seek out the lost. I need to be more patient. I need to care more genuinely. Maybe most important, I need to love deeper. Hopefully, by tweaking my actions little by little to being more like Jesus-my actions will speak louder than my words as I GO! MAKE DISCIPLES!
-Bridget Wagner
Want another perspective? Download Amy’s Israel Journal.
FAQ Below…
Typical Itinerary:
The itinerary below is “typical”. Changes to the itinerary are inevitable but we will try to see all the places listed. It is not uncommon for us to walk 4-6 miles a day. The terrain is typically easy but there are lots of steps and hills. Anyone with knee issues or other concerns should so we can help you make a wise decision. This trip is not recommended for anyone needing a cane or those that get winded easily. Anyone in generally good health should be just fine.
Day 1
Depart USA
Day 2
Travel day, no site stops.
Arrive in Tel Aviv. Estimated arrival, late afternoon/early evening. Transfer directly to a late dinner and overnight on the Mediterranean Sea, Netanya.
Day 3
Caesarea-by-the-Sea, Mt Carmel, Megiddo
Travel to Caesarea-by-the-Sea which was built as the imperial center for the Roman government. Its harbor, theater, and marbled streets signal the arrival of foreign occupation in the Heartland, and, not surprisingly, the beginning point for Christianity in the Gentile world. Visit Mt. Carmel (Muhraqa) where Elijah defeated the prophets of Baal. Travel to Megiddo and walk a site famous for its strategic position. Many battles were waged on and around this OT site. Transfer to Tiberias for dinner and overnight.
Day 4
Magdala, Capernaum, Nazareth, Mary’s Well, Church of the Annunciation
Dawn comes early at Magdala, an industrial site on the edge of the Sea of Galilee. View impressive remains that illustrate the fishing industry from the time of Christ. From Magdala, travel to Capernaum, the center of Jesus’ ministry. Visit the synagogue that stands on the site where Jesus taught. After lunch, travel to Nazareth. Visit Mary’s Well and walk through the Church of the Annunciation, a structure built over the traditional home of Jesus. Overnight in Tiberias.
Day 5
Tel Dan, Caesarea Philippi, Boat ride
Experience the beauty of the far north. Leave the Sea of Galilee behind and travel to the site of Tel Dan. Here an Israelite “high place,” gate complex, and fortification walls are visible. Continue to the birthplace of Jordan River at Panias, named after the goat-god, Pan. Nearby is the site of Caesarea Philippi where Peter declared Jesus to be “the Christ.” End the day (and the year of 2021!) by sailing on the Sea of Galilee. Overnight in Tiberias.
Day 6
Qasr Yahud (Jordan River), Tell es-Sultan, Talul Abu al-Aleeq, Qumran, Wilderness of Judea overlook, Mt Olives overlook.
Travel to the Jordan River and experience its water. Continue to Jericho for a visit to an Old Testament-era mound and some intertestamental-era palaces. At these places learn about the conquest of Canaan and the life and death one remembered as the “King of the Jews.” Drive to Qumran, the site where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Climb through the Wilderness of Judea and if time permits, stop for a view. Conclude this day with an overlook to the city of Jerusalem from the top of the Mount of Olives. Arrive in your Jerusalem hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 7
Herodium, Shepherds Field, Church of the Nativity
Begin this day with a short drive to Bethlehem. Visit the Herodium, the man-made mountain castle of Herod the Great. Travel a short distance to the Shepherds’ Field where the Good News was first heard. Follow the tracks of the shepherds to Bethlehem to the place where the Christian story begins: the Church of the Nativity. Return to Jerusalem for dinner and overnight.
Day 8
Dominus Flevit, Garden of Gethsemane, Via Dolorosa, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, tattoos
Start this day with a walk down the Mount of Olives. Visit Dominus Flevit and remember how Jesus wept over the city. Continue to the Garden of Gethsemane, the area where Jesus was arrested and the events of “the Passion” began. Enter the Old City of Jerusalem on foot via St. Stephen’s Gate and experience the path of the Via Dolorosa. Along the way, visit the Pool of Bethesda and the Church of St Anne. Our walk this day will culminate at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Here, the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus are celebrated. “Tattoo evening” at Razzouk’s. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 9
Tower of David, Cardo, Western Wall, Davidson Center, City of David Excavations, Pool of Siloam
Begin today at the Tower of David, a tower from King Herod’s first century palace. Visit Jerusalem’s Cardoand the Broad Wall on the way to the Western Wall. Contemplate how Jerusalem figures into the lives of contemporary Muslims and Jews. Walk Jerusalem’s streets to investigate excavations at the Davidson Center. Here, aspects of Temple architecture and activity from the NT period are visible. Step back still deeper in time while exploring the City of David Excavations. Go underground and witness Jerusalem’s earliest remains, including the possible site of David’s palace and a spectacular water system (conditions permitting) that terminates in the Pool of Siloam. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 10
Traditional “Mt Zion,” Upper Room, Domition Abby, St Peter in Gallicantu, Free time.
Start this morning at the Zion Gate of Jerusalem’s Old City. Continue to the traditional Mt Zion where several traditional sites are located. Visit the “Upper Room,” a possible location of a Byzantine church that marked the place where Jesus met with his disciples. Visit the Benedictine Church of the Dormition, and the area associated with Tomb of David. Continue south to another Jerusalem landmark, St Peter in Gallicantu, believed by some to be the location of the House of Caiaphas, the High Priest. In the afternoon enjoy some free time for shopping, coffee, and wandering in the Old City. Overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 11
Israel Museum, Shrine of the Book
Begin this final day of touring at the Israel Museum. Here, discover an enormous model of NT Jerusalem. Linger in the Shrine of the Book and witness some of the most important manuscripts of the Bible. After lunch, return to the hotel for rest, clean up, and final packing. After dinner, transfer to Tel-Aviv Airport and Depart for USA.
Day 12
Arrive in USA
FAQ:
Will it be safe?
Absolutely. Now that we’ve surprised you with that answer in my research going to NYC for a week is MUCH more dangerous than spending a week in the Holy Land. As with all international travel there is some risk but it’s in nobody’s interest for tourists to be harmed in Israel or Palestine. If you follow the recommendations of our guide, you’ll be just fine. I (Pat Furgerson) have been multiple times and have never felt unsafe.
How will we get around?
We will travel by air-conditioned motorcoach. While there’s not bathroom on the bus, there is typically WiFi!
What will the weather be?
Sunny! For June trips the average temperature in Jerusalem is a high of 81 degrees and a low of 64. We do recommend drinking lots of water and there will be plenty of shade. For December trips the temperatures are more brisk with a. high of about 68 and low of 52. Keep in mind that we will be in other areas as well that may be warmer or colder.
Am I physically able to do everything on this trip?
Here’s the best way I can answer this, 70-something dad did very well on this trip. He is pretty healthy but would also admit he’s not a Spring chicken. As mentioned above, there is a LOT of walking, often on uneven ground. If you require a cane for walking, please talk to us before signing up.
What should I wear?
Out of respect for the people and the churches we will be visiting, we recommend light weight long pants for summer trips with shirts that cover shoulders. If ladies prefer skirts, they should cover your knees. T-shirts are just fine, tank tops are not recommended. Due to the sun, consider wearing light colors – whites and tans, etc. We’ll do a fair amount of walking (but not excessive), so wear comfortable shoes. For winter trips especially we recommend layers including a light jacket. While you may get warm while we are walking you may be chilly when we stop to talk so layers are your friend.
Can I travel alone?
Of course! The trip is booked for two or more people to a room, so there’s a slight upcharge if you want your own room. Otherwise we will match you with someone we think you’ll get along with.
Will I have wi-fi and cell service?
Yes to both, but check with your cell phone carrier about your international coverage.
What about health, vaccinations, and medicine during my trip?
Israel is a modern country with excellent healthcare and has the world’s highest number of doctors per capita. No vaccinations are required. You can find most standard over-the-counter drugs in Israel that are equivalent to the ones you find in the United States. You can also bring supplies of your prescription drugs with you (If you need to bring syringes and vials of medicine, bring along a letter from your doctor attesting to your needs).
Will I need a Passport?
Yes, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date you are departing the country.
Will I need a Visa?
No, Visas are not required for anyone traveling to Israel for 90 days or less.
What costs aren’t covered?
The trip covers breakfast and dinner at the hotel. Lunch will typically be on the road and cost about $15 per day. While basic tips are already included, you may also wish to tip our Tour Guide.