Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Arrive in Istanbul, the gateway to Turkey, and transfer to the hotel.
- Take a brief guided tour of Istanbul, visiting the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
- Reflect on the historical significance of these landmarks and their connection to the spread of Christianity. In particular, consider the role of the Hagia Sophia, which was initially a Christian church, in shaping the early Christian faith in the region.
Day 2: Istanbul – Tarsus – Adana
- Depart Istanbul for Tarsus, the birthplace of Saint Paul (Acts 22:3).
- Visit the House of Saint Paul, where the apostle was born and raised. Reflect on the humble beginnings of Saint Paul’s life and the divine calling that would later lead him to become one of Christianity’s most influential figures.
- Continue to Adana for overnight stay, contemplating the significance of Tarsus in Saint Paul’s journey and the providential hand of God in shaping his destiny.
Day 3: Adana – Antioch on the Orontes (Antakya) – Seleucia Pieria
- Journey to Antioch on the Orontes, where Saint Paul preached and the disciples were first called Christians (Acts 11:26).
- Explore the Cave Church of Saint Peter, a symbol of early Christian worship, and the Antioch Museum, which houses artifacts from the early Christian period. Reflect on the vibrant Christian community that flourished in Antioch and Saint Paul’s role in its establishment.
- Visit Seleucia Pieria, the port from which Saint Paul embarked on his missionary journeys (Acts 13:4). Contemplate the courage and faith of Saint Paul as he embarked on his mission to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
Day 4: Antakya – Laodicea – Hierapolis – Pamukkale
- Depart Antakya for Laodicea, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation (Revelation 3:14-22).
- Reflect on Saint John’s message to the lukewarm church as you explore the ruins of Laodicea. Consider the timeless relevance of Saint John’s words and their application to the spiritual life of believers today.
- Continue to Hierapolis, known for its hot springs and ancient ruins. Visit the Necropolis of Hierapolis and reflect on Saint Paul’s letter to the Colossians (Colossians 4:13), which mentions Hierapolis as one of the churches in the region.
- Overnight stay in Pamukkale, contemplating the spiritual insights gained from our journey through Laodicea and Hierapolis.
Day 5: Pamukkale – Philadelphia – Sardis – Smyrna
- Explore Philadelphia, another of the Seven Churches of Revelation (Revelation 3:7-13).
- Reflect on Saint John’s message to the faithful church as you visit the ancient ruins. Consider the encouragement and promises given to the faithful believers in Philadelphia and their relevance to believers today.
- Continue to Sardis, where Saint John warned against spiritual complacency (Revelation 3:1-6).
Visit the Temple of Artemis and reflect on Saint Paul’s visit to Sardis. Consider the challenges faced by the early Christian community in Sardis and the lessons that can be learned from their experience. - Journey to Smyrna, the final stop on our pilgrimage (Revelation 2:8-11). Reflect on Saint John’s message to the persecuted church in Smyrna and the enduring faithfulness of the believers despite adversity.
- Overnight stay in Izmir, contemplating the spiritual significance of the Seven Churches of Revelation and their relevance to our own faith journey.
Day 6: Izmir – Ephesus – Departure from Istanbul
- Visit Ephesus, where Saint Paul spent three years preaching and teaching (Acts 20:31).
- Explore the ancient city, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Reflect on Saint Paul’s ministry and the impact of his teachings on the Ephesian church.
- Transfer to Izmir Airport for departure to Istanbul, carrying with us the spiritual blessings and insights gained from our pilgrimage.
- Overnight stay in Istanbul, reflecting on the spiritual journey we’ve undertaken and the lessons learned from Saint Paul’s life and ministry.
Day 7: Departure from Istanbul
- Transfer to Istanbul Airport for departure, carrying with us the spiritual blessings and insights gained from our pilgrimage.
- End of the tour, with a renewed sense of faith and purpose in our hearts.