Tour of Israel, Jordan and Egypt
with
Reverend Kevin & Jenny Ellem
3 Oct to 23 Oct 2010
Israel: | Dead Sea, Joppa, Caesarea, Mt Carmel, Megiddo Valley, Nazareth, Galilee, Golan Heights, Caesarea Philippi, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Ein Karem, Masada, Timna, Qumran, Beitshean, Bethlehem... |
Egypt: | Memphis, Cairo, Taba Heights, Mt Sinai, St Catherine's... |
Jordan: | Aqaba, Petra... |
Includes:
- Flying Singapore Airlines
- 4<4+ star accommodation – all with private facilities
- Breakfast & dinner included
- Optional Group Reflection times
- Free time in Jerusalem and Cairo
- Jerusalem Hotel walking distance to Old City
- Optional pre/post tour travel can be arranged by Inner Faith
Day 1:
Depart Brisbane where we connect with our flight to CAIRO, EGYPT. (Meals in flight)
Day 2:
Morning arrival in the Holy Land. We will transfer to our TEL AVIV hotel by the Mediterranean Sea to rest. In the afternoon we will sojourn in the ancient city of JOPPA, home of Simon the Tanner and where Jonah, fleeing from the Lord, embarked his ship for Tarshish. Time to stroll through the narrow streets filled with art galleries and cafes. Overnight Tel Aviv (D&B)
Day 3:
After breakfast we leave Tel Aviv and follow the coastline to the city of CAESAREA, site of Herod’s Palace, remains of a Roman aqueduct, home of Cornelius and where Paul was brought to trial. Next stop is MT CARMEL and THE MONASTERY OF MUHRAQA, where Elijah called down fire from heaven. On our way to NAZARETH we pass through the MEGGIDO VALLEY, the very large plain where the final battle of Armageddon is prophesied to take place. From THE MOUNT OF THE PRECIPICE, where the synagogue congregation tried to throw Jesus over the cliff, we enjoy the view of MT TABOR, NAZARETH and the JEZREEL VALLEY. We then explore THE CHURCH OF THE ANNUNICIATION, which covers the boyhood village of Jesus. Marvel at the beautiful mosaics from around the world honouring Mary’s life. Leaving Nazareth we pass by the small village of CANA, site of Jesus’ first miracle. The SEA OF GALILEE unfolds in a breathtaking panoramic scene before our eyes. We arrive at our hotel on the shores of the Sea of Galilee in time for a quick swim before dinner. Overnight Galilee (D&B)
Day 4:
This morning we visit CAPERNAUM, the city of Jesus, where we will see the ruins of the synagogue were Jesus performed many miracles. You will also view the new excavations of ST PETER’S house. Then it is off to the CHURCH OF THE MULTIPLICATION at TABGHA where Jesus multiplied five loaves and two fishes to feed the multitudes. After ascending the MOUNT OF BEATITUDES, we will read the Sermon on the Mount. Remember how Jesus walked on the water? This afternoon we board our special traditional sailing vessel that will take us on the SEA OF GALILEE; stopping in the middle for a time of reflection and worship (and perhaps a little Jewish dancing!) We disembark at NOF GINOSAR a kibbutz located on the shores of Galilee where we will see the remains of a boat from the time of Jesus. On the way back to our hotel, we drive through the modern town of TIBERIAS. Overnight Galilee (D&B)
Day 5:
Heading up the eastern side of the lake, we depart for a tour of the GOLAN HEIGHTS. On the way we visit KURSI where Jesus healed the demonic. Choosebetween two activities in QAZRIN: (1) visiting THE YARDEN WINERY for a tour and wine tasting, or (2) exploring THE GOLAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM. Next stop is KUNEITRA, which overlooks the Syrian border and a United Nations base. There will be an optional opportunity to purchase a traditional lunch at a Druze village. At CAESAREA PHILLIPI (Banias), where Peter confessed his faith in Jesus, there will be time for personal reflection. Overnight Galilee (D&B)
Day 6:
Today we leave our hotel for an uplifting visit to the JORDAN RIVER, an area many believe to be close to where John the Baptist baptised our Lord. There will be an opportunity to renew Baptismal promises at the YARDENT BAPTISMAL SITE (optional: hire of white robes approx $10US). Then we set our faces towards Jerusalem. En route we explore the 20 layers of civilization at the Decapolis City of BEITSHEAN where King Saul’s body was hung on the gates. As we ascend to Jerusalem we make a short stop to view SAINT GEORGE’S MONASTERY from the Old Jericho Road. There will be a special ‘Welcome to Jerusalem Service’ at MT SCOPUS before being taken to our hotel. Overnight Jerusalem (D&B)
Day 7:
We awaken in the city of the Great King. You can feel the atmosphere that sets JERUSALEM apart from any other city in the world. This morning we will visit BETHLEHEM. En route, we pass RACHAEL’S TOMB and the SHEPHERD’S FIELDS. After visiting THE CHURCH OF THE HOLY NATIVITY, time will be given for some souvenir shopping at the Three Arches Souvenir Shop. Then it is off to EIN KAREM, home of John the Baptist. In New Jerusalem we visit the MODEL CITY, site of a quarter acre replica model of Jerusalem in the time of Christ and also the SHRINE OF THE BOOK to see the DEAD SEA SCROLLS. Overnight Jerusalem (D&B)
Day 8:
Today we drive to the top of the MOUNT OF OLIVES and begin the PALM SUNDAY WALK. Along the way we explore DOMINO FLAVIS (God’s tears), where Jesus wept over Jerusalem. See the magnificent view across to the Old City from the altar window. Then we visit the CHURCH OF ALL NATIONS and THE GARDEN GETHSEMANE, where there will be time for quiet reflection. After lunch we enter the Old City via the Lion’s Gate and visit the POOLS of SILOAM, where Jesus healed the lame man, and share a surprise experience together in the CHURCH OF ST ANNE. We then walk the VIA DOLOROSA, the ‘Way of Suffering’, concluding at the CHURCH OF HOLY SCEPLUCHRE. Overnight Jerusalem (D&B)
Day 9:
This morning we walk through HEZEKIAH’S TUNNEL which was dug in approx 700BC to safeguard Jerusalem’s water supply from the Assyrians. After an uplifting Communion Service at THE GARDEN TOMB, the afternoon is FREE to go exploring or shopping. Overnight Jerusalem (D&B).
Day 10:
This morning we set off to the TEMPLE MOUNT (security permitting), and the DOME OF THE ROCK, the site where Abraham offered up Isaac. Then we visit THE WESTERN WALL, the most sacred site for Jews. Together we will explore the UPPER ROOM where we will reflect on the events of the Last Supper. We will then have an (optional) opportunity to eat falafel or shwarma (grilled chicken) together in the Old City. At CHRISTCHURCH we visit the small museum which commemorates the achievements of the Allied forces in WW1 who re-captured Jerusalem. If possible we will hear about the ministry to Messianic Jews. Then choose between (1) visiting THE YAD VASHEM HOLOCAUST MUSEUM and CHILDREN’S MEMORIAL OR (2) THE ISRAEL MUSEUM. Overnight Jerusalem (D&B)
Day 11:
FREE DAY to take your Bible and explore the sights and sounds of Jerusalem at your own pace! At night we walk to ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL to hear about their mission outreach and Arab school. Overnight Jerusalem (D&B)
Day 12:
After breakfast we say a fond farewell to Jerusalem and pass by JERICHO on our way to QUMRAN – site of the discovery of THE DEAD SEA SCROLLS in 1947. Driving through the JUDEAN DESERT, beside THE DEAD SEA, our next stop is MASADA, site of the heroic 3 year stand of 960 Jewish defenders against the Roman Empire. Ascending via cable car we will learn about Herod The Great’s building prowess and the history of Masada. We arrive at our hotel on the DEAD SEA in time for a quick float before dinner! Overnight Dead Sea (D&B)
Day 13:
Time for an early morning float before we travel through the NEGEV AND PARAN DESERTS (part of The Great Rift Valley). On the way we visit TIMNA and an authentic replica of the TABERNACLE used by the wandering Israelites. Collect a bottle of coloured sand before crossing to TABA on the Egyptian side of the Red Sea. Here we will be assisted through Passport control and customs and drive to our hotel for overnight. (B-D) Overnight Taba Heights (D&B)
Day 14:
We travel to PETRA via AQABA. In Petra, we walk (optional donkey rides) from the gate of the Archaeological Park through AL-SIQ, along a winding trail of a natural deep canyon. At the end we see the famous TREASURY MONUMENT. We then proceed on to the AMPHITHEATRE, KINGS' TOMBS, ROMAN MARKET ROAD and more. Hear the story of the Nabateans who have established Petra as their capital on the "Spice Route". Travel back to border and if time permits a short tour of Aqaba. Overnight Taba Heights (D&B)
Day 15:
Early morning departure to St Catherine’s and Mt Sinai. Overnight Mt Sinai (D&B)
Day 16:
For the adventurous, an early morning expedition to the summit of MT SINAI. Take the vigorous 3 hour climb – or – take an OPTIONAL camel ride 2/3 of the way (approx $20US). It is believed that Moses viewed the burning bush near the base (St Catherine’s Monastery) and received the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments on the summit of Mt Sinai. Be prepared for unparalleled views of the mountains of Saudi Arabia and Africa drenched in brilliant shades of purple, pink and red as the sun rises. After our descent we will visit ST CATHERINE’S MONASTERY, the oldest in the world – which dates back to the 3rd century. Then we return to our hotel for breakfast and to refresh ourselves before boarding our coach to Cairo. Travelling along the arid and ancient countryside where the children of Israel trod, we visit the SPRINGS OF MOSES before going under the SUEZ CANAL and onto the bustling city of CAIRO. Overnight Cairo (D&B)
Day 17:
Morning FREE. Then we are off for an exciting visit to the famous CAIRO MUSEUM. After a tour of approximately 2-1/2 hours you can choose (1) to stay at the museum for further exploration (picked up later on) OR (2) OPTIONAL - take a Felucca boat ride on THE NILE (APPROX $10US). At night we experience the LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW at the PYRAMIDS OF GIZA. Overnight Cairo (D&B)
Day 18:
Today we have an exciting excursion to The PYRAMIDS OF CHEOPS, CHEPHREN AND MYKERINUS. Then we proceed to the GREAT SPHINX, the head of a pharaoh with a lion's body, which dates back to the time of Chephren. Next stop is the STEP PYRAMID OF ZOSER, the world's oldest major stone structure. It was built in the 3rd Dynasty (around 2630 BC) for King Djoser. After that we travel to MEMPHIS, which was founded by King Menes, and was the capital of Old Egypt during the Old Kingdom, it was considered to be a centre of rule and culture for over 3000 years. We will also see the Statue of RAMSES. Overnight Cairo (D&B)
Day 19:
Today we visit ST MARK’S COPTIC CATHEDRAL AND KHAN EL-KHALILI BAZAAR. Followed by a fragrant visit to a perfume factory. Then we walk through the narrow lanes of MUQATTAM MOUNTAIN, where families live and sort rubbish for their existence to THE CHURCH OF ST SIMON (CAVE CHURCH). Marvel at its existence and powerful Christian presence. If possible there will be an opportunity to attend a church service at The Cave Church at night. Overnight Cairo (D&B)
Day 20:
Mid morning flight out of Cairo to connecting flight home. (Meals in flight)
Day 21:
Arrive home with a lifetime of memories.
Bio: Rev Kevin and Jenny Ellem
Kevin, an Anglican priest of over 40 years, is currently Priest-in-Charge of the Parish of Rosewood, near Ipswich in Queensland. He is also a registered teacher with the Queensland Education Department.
Kevin enjoys both traditional and contemporary forms of worship, with a focus on the Gospel message. Jenny has worked in the finance sector and church administration. Over the past 17 years, she has taught R.E. in State Schools and also been a member of the Chaplaincy team at West Moreton Anglican College.
Kevin and Jenny enjoy fellowship with the wider Body of Christ. They have visited Israel three times; including a 10 week acting Chaplaincy position to the British Embassy in Tel Aviv and in 2009 when they led a Tour Group through Inner Faith. This itinerary is the product of ‘tweaking’ last year’s to result in what they believe to be a fantastic balance between sightseeing, reflection and fun – with Petra, Jordan included to top it all off!
Kevin and Jenny have two sons, Michael who is a commercial pilot and Andrew who has graduated Psychology (Hons) and is travelling to South America to learn Spanish.
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