“Join us on our Holy Land Trip!” says an announcement from the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership, which is offering a study tour to the Middle East in June 2013.
“ The dream of a lifetime? A way to undergird ministry and bring scripture alive? A pilgrimage of devotion to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? Whatever urges you to consider this invitation, we want you to know that we will be delighted to have you as a part of this life changing, educational travel experience!” said the announcement.
Dan Ulrich, professor of New Testament Studies at Bethany Theological Seminary, and Marilyn Lerch, coordinator of the Training in Ministry (TRIM) program at the academy, will lend their expertise to that of top-notch guides the study group will enjoy through Educational Opportunities, an organization that has been taking groups to the Holy Land for years.
The theme of the tour is “Journey Through the Bible” and the itinerary will include many sites that are part of the Christian faith story, from Bethlehem to Nazareth, including the Dead Sea, Sea of Galilee, Mount of Olives, and the place where it is said Jesus was crucified in Jerusalem. Scriptures will be read on location. Participants also will get a glimpse of the Middle East today. Ulrich and Lerch will provide additional information and lead devotional moments along the journey.
The 12-day trip departs from JFK airport in New York on June 3, with other departure cities also available. Basic cost of the trip is $3,198 and includes, among other expenses, round trip airfare from New York, all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, guide sightseeing, and deluxe motor coaches. An initial deposit is required.
Current students at Bethany Seminary and students in the TRIM and Education for Shared Ministry (EFSM) programs will earn course credit (TRIM and EFSM students may apply for financial assistance to take part in this study tour). Clergy traveling with the group may earn 4 continuing education units. Lay members of the church are welcome to join the group as well. Participants will receive a suggested reading list, some of which may be required to earn academic credit or continuing education units.
All participants must carry a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months after the tour is complete, and must provide passport information by Feb. 18, 2013. US citizens do not need a visa for entry to Israel.
Brochures are available on the Brethren Academy website at www.bethanyseminary/academy/courses . A paper travel brochure is available on request from the Brethren Academy Office, call 765-983-1824. To register, either fill out the form in the brochure or register online at www.eotravelwithus.com by clicking on “Find a Trip” and entering the following codes: HL13 in the “Tour” box, 060313 in the “Departure date” box and clicking on “B” in the adjacent drop down menu, and 31970 as the “Group Leader Id #.”
For more information contact: Marilyn Lerch, 814-494-1978 or lerchma@bethanyseminary,edu ; or Dan Ulrich, 765-983-1819 or ulricda@bethanyseminary.edu