Eleven years ago, Mary and I toured Israel. That time was life changing. Two years ago, we attempted to take our first group from GCF. That was quite an experience, as well! Now it is 2022 and we are privileged to once again invite you to travel with us on the journey of a lifetime to the Land of the Bible.

 

The elder board of GCF has given me permission to organize a trip to Israel March 15-25, 2023, with the goal of strengthening our understanding of the Scripture and deepening our faith. This 11-day spiritual adventure will take us to the significant locations in Israel that are so foundational to our faith. As an added bonus, we will also extend the tour by four days to Petra, Jordan - one of the Wonders of the World - for those who are interested.

 

We depart out of Portland, OR and arrive at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv. On arrival, we will be met by the ITC staff, Abraham Hillel, our amazing tour guide, and our driver for our time in the country. Our transportation throughout Israel will be in a superior, air-conditioned coach.

 

The opportunity to see personally the places of the Bible will be like a seminary education.  Imagine walking where Jesus walked and experiencing the Land of Bible. We will begin at Caesarea Maritima, see the Roman Aquaduct, and then head on to Mount Carmel. We will spend several days touring in the Galilee staying in a real kibbutz - Kibbutz Ma'agan - situated right on the Sea of Galilee! We will visit Nazareth, the Mount of Beatitudes, enjoy a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, and a baptism service in the Jordan River. These are just a few highlights as we transverse the country on our journey southward to the Holy City, Jerusalem! Along the way, we will see the ancient city of Beit She'an, Qumran, Masada and the Dead Sea.  

 

On arrival in Jerusalem, we will visit amazing archeological discoveries that further support the claims Scriptures. We will pray at the Western Wall, visit Temple Mount, and follow the steps of Jesus on His journey to the Cross. Finally, we will visit Gethsemane and the Garden Tomb and discover for ourselves that it is indeed empty! We will celebrate Shabbat together on Friday and visit other significant sites in the Old City. Sunday will be a free day to explore Jerusalem and visit the Western Wall tunnels as well as Hezekiah’s Tunnel if we wish.  

 

We are partnering with the Israel Tour Company (ITC) who has over 25 years of extensive experience in organizing intimate, personal tours. The founder of the company is from Eugene and previously worked at Harvest House. ITC takes every measure to insure our safety and comfort in order to maximize our experience of this most holy place on the planet!

 

The pace is very relaxed and contemplative time is provided to allow the significance of this Land to penetrate our hearts. The group will be limited to less than 50 people so that we will have maximum flexibility and comfort as we explore the Land of Jesus. New friendships will be forged, and the presence of God in the Land will deeply imprint your life forever. We will learn, pray, worship, eat wonderful meals and laugh the entire way. It is truly an adventure of joy!  We hope you will have the faith and vision to invest in this experience!

 

Perhaps now more than ever, God is calling you to Israel, the Land that He loves! Your presence there will bless God's people and change you forever.