Day 6: Galilee to Jerusalem

Having finished our time in Galilee, we begin journeying to Jerusalem. On the way, we’ll visit Beit She'an, the capital of the Decapolis Cities and the only one west of the Jordan River. Next, we head to En Harod, also known as Gideon Springs, where we’ll read the incredible story of Gideon preparing to fight the Midianites. From there, we continue to Shiloh, the ancient capital of Israel and the site of the Tabernacle for over 300 years. Finally, we'll make our way to Mt. Scopus for a breathtaking overlook of Jerusalem before arriving at our hotel for dinner and overnighting in Jerusalem.

Day 7: Around the Dead Sea

After breakfast, our first stop will be the En Gedi Nature Reserve. En Gedi is one of the three main hide outs of David as he fled from King Saul. Next, we head to majestic Masada. Built as a palace/fortress by Herod the Great, it was used by Zealots as a place from which to fight the Romans. The Romans breached the wall of Masada in 73 AD thus ending the Great Revolt. Qumran, the site of the Dead Sea Scrolls discovery, is our next stop. We end our tour with a swim in the Dead Sea. Then, we return to our hotel for dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 8: Valley of Elah to Gaza

After breakfast, we begin our journey with a photo stop at the Elah Valley, the famous battleground where David confronted Goliath. Next, we visit Sha’ar haGai, also known as the Gate of the Valley, where we explore the War of Independence Museum and delve into the historical struggles of the region. Our tour continues with a visit to Lachish, a significant archaeological site pivotal to ancient Israelite history. We then proceed to the Nova Festival Memorial Site to pay our respects and reflect on the events of October 7. This will also include an overview of Gaza [from a SAFE place], providing historical context and understanding of recent developments. From there, we return to our hotel for dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 9: Jerusalem - Herodion

After breakfast, we begin exploring the Old City with our expert guide. Our visit to the Western Wall includes the Western Wall Tunnels, going underground and walking on original, Herodian sidewalks. After a time at the Southern Wall excavations, we enter the City of David. We’ll walk through Canaanite tunnels or Hezekiah’s Tunnel [for those who don’t mind getting wet!], ending up at the Pool of Siloam. Next, we visit the Herodion, an impressive fortress/palace built by King Herod just a few miles from Bethlehem. Herod was buried at the Herodion in 4 BC, and his tomb was only just discovered in 2008. We return to our hotel for dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 10: Jerusalem

After breakfast, we go to the Temple Mount, an important religious site for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. We exit the Temple Mount from the north side, and in minutes, we’re at the Pools of Bethesda. Then, we head to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the traditional site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Our tour continues with the Sifting Project, where we participate in an archaeological activity. Our final stop is the Israel Museum. We’ll spend some time at the Jerusalem Model, then enter the museum to visit the Roman wing. Afterwards, we return to our hotel for dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 11: Jerusalem - Transfer to Ben Gurion Airport

We will have a late hotel check-out at approximately 11:00 AM. After checking out, we will visit the Mt. of Olives, a place with profound religious significance and breathtaking views of Jerusalem. Our journey continues to Gethsemane, where we will reflect on the passion of Christ. Next, we will explore Gordon’s Calvary and Garden Tomb. We’ll spend time remembering Christ death, burial, and resurrection. Then, we share in Communion together. We will conclude our day with a farewell dinner, sharing stories and memories of our incredible time in Israel. Afterwards, we transfer to the Ben Gurion Airport to prepare for our flight home.

Day 12: Return to USA

We'll leave Israel in the evening and get back to our US city with precious memories and a revived heart. We will carry with us not just photographs and souvenirs, but a deeper understanding and connection to the stories that have shaped our heritage and beliefs.