If you want an in-depth Bible-centered trip and see more holy sites in Israel than other tours, then this trip is designed for you. Holy Land Trips Final Payment Secure Payment Link Holy Land Trip Final Payment To complete your final deposit payment, please send your payment of $1,650 by either credit card, PayPal, or check. Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by credit card or PayPal, a 4% fee is added to your total amount due to fees charged by the credit card and PayPal providers. If paying by credit card or PayPal, click the button below. PayPal does not require you to create a PayPal account to use your credit card. $1,650.00 Final Payment Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by check, please send your check to the following address: Holy Land Site (Make checks payable to: Holy Land Site) 6945 Burnett St., SE Salem, OR, 97317-5202 (Using regular mail is preferred as there's not always someone available to sign for certified mail).

The history of the Walls and gates of Jerusalem plays a key role in understanding all God has done throughout its history. See each time period with maps, videos, talks, descriptions, and more. History of Jerusalem's Walls Photo Gallery Places of Interest History of the Walls of Jerusalem The First Walls Were Built by the Canaanites Long before the Israelites entered the Promised Land, the Jebusites lived securely within the walls of Jerusalem. The city was blessed with natural valleys around it that made it easy to defend. The city walls and its fortress provided additional protection. David Conquered the Jebusite City and Enlarged the City Walls God was with David and allowed him to capture Jerusalem from the Jebusites. Later, he built stronger and additional walls to fortify the city, and it would become known as the City of David. 2 Samuel 5:6–10: And the king and his men went to Jerusalem against the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land, who said to David, “You will not come in here, but the blind and the lame will ward you off”—thinking, “David cannot come in here.” 7 Nevertheless, David took the stronghold of Zion, that is, the city of David. 8 And David said on that day, “Whoever would strike the Jebusites, let him get up the water shaft to attack ‘the lame and the blind,’ who are hated by David's soul.” Therefore, it is said, “The blind and the lame shall not come into the house.” 9 And David lived in the stronghold and called it the city of David. And David built the city all around from the Millo inward. 10 And David became greater and greater, for the Lord, the God of hosts, was with him. Solomon Added to the Walls of the City After David died, Solomon built the Temple Mount Platform on Mt. Moriah upon the threshing floor of Araunah (Ornan). Then he erected the temple upon it and added walls from the City of David to encompass the Temple Mount and temple. Hezekiah’s Broad Wall Expansion of the Western Hill In 701 BC, the Assyrians, headed by Sennacherib invaded Judah, the Southern Kingdom of Israel, because of their disobedience to God. According to an Assyrian stele found in the ruins of the royal palace of Nineveh, Sennacherib conquered 46 cities in Judea prior to attempting to conquer Jerusalem. God allowed most of Judah to be conquered but protected Jerusalem because of Hezekiah’s obedience to Him. As Hezekiah began to prepare for what he knew would be a terrible siege by a merciless Assyrian war machine, he had to figure out how to protect his people. This meant building new defenses. In 736 BC, the Assyrians began conquering the northern part of Israel. As a result, many Jews fled to Jerusalem as refugees and settled on the western side of the City of David. Therefore, Jerusalem’s urban population had grown far outside the old walls of the city and were unprotected. King Hezekiah fortified the existing walls of the city and built a new wall in a rapid manner to protect those living outside the city walls. This would later be called "Hezekiah's Broad Wall." 2 Chronicles 32:5: He set to work resolutely and built up all the wall that was broken down and raised towers upon it, and outside it he built another wall, and he strengthened the Millo in the city of David. He also made weapons and shields in abundance. Hezekiah’s new wall measured about 22 feet wide (7 m.) by 25 feet high (8 m.). It was a massive undertaking and measured around 2.5 miles (4 km.) in length. A portion of the wall was discovered in the 1970s by Israeli archaeologist Nahman Avigad and dated to the reign of King Hezekiah (716–687 BC). It was called “Hezekiah’s Broad Wall” by archaeologists because of its width. Hezekiah also built a water tunnel in order to keep the water from the Gihon Spring inside the city walls so the Assyrians couldn’t cut off the water supply (2 Chron. 32:3–4). The curving tunnel is 583 yards (533 m.) long and has a fall of 12 inches (30 cm.) between its two ends. It was chiseled from both ends to the middle at the same time. It took the water from the Gihon Spring under the mountain to the Pool of Siloam below the city. Today, this water tunnel is known as Hezekiah’s Tunnel. Nehemiah Rebuilds the Walls When the Babylonians conquered and destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BC, they also destroyed the walls and burned the gates with fire. However, God sovereignly moved in the hearts of Cyrus and Artaxerxes, kings of Persia, to allow Nehemiah to rebuild the walls. Under his leadership and with a small Jewish population, the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt to dimensions similar to Solomon’s day. Nehemiah 1:1–3: Now it happened in the month of Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in Susa the citadel, 2 that Hanani, one of my brothers, came with certain men from Judah. And I asked them concerning the Jews who escaped, who had survived the exile, and concerning Jerusalem. 3 And they said to me, “The remnant there in the province who had survived the exile is in great trouble and shame. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are destroyed by fire." The rebuilding and repair of the wall was a miracle. Nehemiah 6:15–16: So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days. 16 And when all our enemies heard of it, all the nations around us were afraid and fell greatly in their own esteem, for they perceived that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God. Hasmonean Wall Addition The Jews gained their independence from the Seleucid Empire in 164 BC, led by the Maccabees and Hasmoneans. During this time, known as the Hasmonean period (164–63 BC), Jerusalem was rebuilt along with its walls. It was built to dimensions similar to King Hezekiah’s time. King Herod Addition ~ Jerusalem of Jesus’ Day In 19 BC, the master-builder, King Herod the Great, began his life's most ambitious building project. He undertook the rebuilding of the temple and the Temple Mount on a massive scale. He took the expansion of the Hasmonean Temple Mount and extended it on three sides, to the north, west, and south. This expansion also included some additional wall construction on the north side of the city walls. The archaeology of the Temple Mount today confirms this enlargement. It would be this city layout that would exist during the time of Christ. Agrippa I Wall Addition According to the Jewish historian Josephus, K ing Agrippa I (41–44 AD) began the construction of a third city wall of Jerusalem to protect a new quarter that grew north beyond the first and second city walls. Agrippa stopped work on the wall after only laying the foundation out of fear that Roman emperor Claudius would suspect he was planning a revolt. Jewish rebels later completed this wall in haste leading up to the First Jewish Revolt (66–70 AD). This would be the largest area the city walls would encompass. The City Walls Today In the 16th century, Suleiman decided to rebuild the city walls on much of the remains of the ancient walls that already existed. However, much of the southern part of the city walls were omitted in the new construction. They were completed in 1538 and are the walls that exist today.

See the place and hear the moving story about how Christ healed a demon-possessed man and cast the demons into a herd of 2,000 pigs who ran down a steep hill into the Sea of Galilee. It took place on the east side of the Sea of Galilee in the region of the Gerasenes or Gadarenes. This place was also called Kurshi in Hebrew and Kursy in Arabic. It was in the region of the Decapolis. Sites of interest include: Mount Arbel, Magdala, Gennesaret, Tabhga, Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Bethsaida. Kursi: Demon Possessed Man Healed Photo Gallery Places of Interest Kursi: Demon-Possessed Man Healed Introduction Welcome to Kursi, also known as the land of the Gadarenes. Several major events from the Bible took place here. Here are the highlights. 1. It's here that two demon-possessed men were healed. 2. One of them had a legion of demons in him. Jesus cast these demons into a herd of pigs, which ran down a steep hill into the sea. 3. It's also in this area that Jesus fed 4,000 people with seven loaves of bread and a few fish (Matt. 15:29-39). 4. It contains the ruins of Israel's largest Byzantine monastery complex. 5. It has other churches and monuments marking the key events that happened here. Location 1. Kursi is the place where two demon-possessed men were healed. 2. The demons who lived in these men were cast into a herd of pigs that ran down a steep bank into the sea. 3. It took place on the east side of the Sea of Galilee in the region of the Gerasenes or Gadarenes. This place was also called Kurshi in Hebrew and Kursy in Arabic. 4. It was in the region of the Decapolis. 5. The Decapolis comprised 10 Roman cities that functioned like city-states. It was a region outside Jewish authority inhabited by Jews and Gentiles. 6. It was an immoral area representing all that sinful humanity had to offer. Therefore, it was considered unclean by the Jews. 7. The caves where the demon-possessed men lived can be seen on the hillside above Kursi. Historical Background Today, this site contains the ruins of Israel's largest Byzantine monastery complex. It dates from the middle of the 5th century and was built to commemorate what took place here. We'll take a look at its history over the years. 1. Byzantine Period (5th-7th century AD) The site was established around 450 AD. The monastery was built on a large area and protected by walls. The baptistery near the chapel was added in the 6th century. A watchtower guarded the entrance facing the Sea of Galilee, and a paved road led down to a harbor where pilgrim boats were moored. Once inside the wall, the pilgrims had the choice of going first to a luxurious bathhouse to the left of the entrance or to the centrally placed church. 2. Persian Period (614-618 AD) The Persians defeated the Byzantine rulers in 614 AD. The conquerors were assisted by the Jewish population in Galilee, who seized the moment to reestablish an independent state. During the Persian invasion, the site was severely damaged, and the monks were murdered. During the 2002 excavations, archaeologists found Persian weapons in the monastery. This may have been the first Christian site damaged by the Persians during their bloody conquest of the Holy Land, which lasted only a brief time before the Byzantines recaptured the land. 3. Arab Period (634 – 9th Century AD) The Umayyad Caliphate Arabs captured the land in 636 AD, allowing Christians to continue worshipping and living in Kursi. The monastery was restored. In the 8th century AD, a great earthquake in 749 AD damaged the monastery, and it was never used again as a place of worship. In the 9th century, local Arabs reused the place for residential and storage, and the mosaics may have been damaged at that time (erasing the figures on the magnificent floor). 4. Modern Period Sometime after the 9th century, the site was abandoned and slowly covered over with dirt and vegetation. In 1970, road work accidentally exposed the monastery's walls, and an archaeological expedition began. The excavations restored the ruins and unearthed the chapel on the hill. The site was opened to the public in 1982 as a National Park. In recent years, the excavations have continued. In 2001-2002, a bath complex was found in the northern part of the site, with cold and hot pools. This large 100-square-meter complex served the thousands of Christian pilgrims who came to the monastery to witness the site of the miracle. The bathhouse, dated to the 5th- 7th century AD, is unique. It's the only one found so far inside a monastery. Therefore, the monastery also served as a guesthouse, offering additional services to pilgrims. Places of Interest 1. Capernaum 2. Calming the storm and sea. 3. Byzantine Monastery Complex Mosaics Baptistry Apse Olive Press Olive Crusher 4. Tombs above Kursi. 5. Residential Area on the northern side of the monastery. 6. The beach where Jesus and His disciples arrived and departed. 7. Steep hill where the pigs ran down into the sea. 8. Decapolis area. Kursi in the Bible 1. Jesus and His disciples were coming from the Capernaum area, where Jesus had just performed many miracles and preached about the parables of the kingdom. 2. On the boat ride to this area, Jesus performed an astounding miracle of calming the sea and storm. Matthew 8:23–27: And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, "Save us, Lord; we are perishing." And he said to them, "Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?" Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, "What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?" 3. This event is the most detailed account of an exorcism (casting out demons) in the Bible. 4. When Jesus and His disciples arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, they were greeted by two demon-possessed men. Matthew 8:28–29: And when he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. And behold, they cried out, "What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?" 5. The account of this story in Mark focuses on one of the demon-possessed men. Mark 5:1–2: They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasenes. 2 And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. 6. The life of this demon-possessed man was a nightmarish living hell. Mark 5:3–5: He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, 4 for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. 5 Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. 7. The legion of demons indwelling this man recognized who Jesus was. Mark 5:6–9: And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. 7 And crying out with a loud voice, he said, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me." 8 For he was saying to him, "Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!" 9 And Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" He replied, "My name is Legion [5,000 demons], for we are many." 8. Jesus cast this legion of demons into a herd of pigs who ran into the sea. Mark 5:10–13: And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. 11 Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, 12 and they begged him, saying, "Send us to the pigs; let us enter them." 13 So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out, and entered the pigs, and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and were drowned in the sea. 9. The demon-possessed man was healed, and news spread rapidly throughout the region. Mark 5:14–17: The herdsmen fled and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. 15 And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. 16 And those who had seen it described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and to the pigs. 17 And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their region. 10. Jesus sent the healed man into the Decapolis region to tell them the great things God had done for him. Mark 5:18–20: As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. 19 And he did not permit him but said to him, "Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." 20 And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled. Faith Lesson from Kursi 1. The demon-possessed man was in deep bondage and torment from the host of demons who lived within him. Do we believe demonic possession is a reality? 2. Jesus showed His power over the demonic realm by casting the legion of demons into a herd of 2,000 pigs. Do we believe Christ is Lord over Satan and all demonic rulers and principalities in the universe? 3. Jesus told the demon-possessed man to go and tell others how much the Lord had done for him. 4. History records that as a result of this man’s obedience, a large community of believers was established in this area and had a great influence on the early church for many centuries. 5. One of our best tools in sharing the Gospel is just to tell others what God has done for us. Have we carefully defined our testimony, and are we committed to using it to share Christ with others?

Filmed on location in Jerusalem. Learn all the details and timeline of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ Church of the Holy Sepulchre Photo Gallery Garden Tomb Photo Gallery Places of Interest Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ Location 1. We filmed our video about the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ at Gordan’s Garden Tomb, as it provides a good setting for the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. 2. The Garden Tomb is located just 250 yards (220 m.) to the north of the Damascus Gate of Old City Jerusalem. 3. The traditional location of Golgotha is at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which has overwhelming evidence as the authentic site. Historical Background 1. The property of the Garden Tomb was purchased in 1894 by The Garden Tomb Association. 2. It is a Charitable Trust based in the United Kingdom and is made up of people from many different denominations and national backgrounds. 3. Their passion is to help people understand all Christ did for them on the Cross. 4. The site is maintained by volunteers that come from around the globe and join a team of local Palestinians and Israelis. Places of Interest 1. Garden Tomb. A cave-like tomb that can be entered. It has a channel at the entrance where a stone could be rolled to cover and uncover the tomb. 2. A rock face cliff that has the form of a skull which is believed to be Golgotha. 3. Damascus Gate 4. Old City Jerusalem 5. Church of the Holy Sepulchre Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ in the Bible 1. At 3:00 pm, Friday afternoon, Jesus dies. This happened at the exact time the sacrificial lamb for the Passover was to be killed. Matthew 27:45–53: Now from the sixth hour [12:00 pm] there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour [3:00 pm]. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" that is, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" 47 And some of the bystanders, hearing it, said, "This man is calling Elijah." 48 And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine, and put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink. 49 But the others said, "Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him." 50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. 51 And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split. 52 The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, 53 and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. 2. Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross and placed in a tomb. John 19:41–42: Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there. 3. Jesus’ body was given to Joseph of Arimathea, prepared for burial, and placed in Joseph’s own tomb. Matthew 27:57–61: As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. 58 Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus' body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. 59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb. 4. The Tomb of Jesus is sealed and secured by the Romans. Matthew 27:62–66: The next day, the one after Preparation Day, the chief priests and the Pharisees went to Pilate. 63 "Sir," they said, "we remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said, 'After three days I will rise again.' 64 So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first." Pilate said to them, "You have a guard of soldiers. Go, make it as secure as you can." 66 So they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard. 5. On Sunday morning, very early, Jesus rose from the dead. Matthew 28:1–10: After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you." 8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me." 6. Mary Magdalene is our example of what it means to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. John 20:11–18: But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept, she stooped to look into the tomb. 12 And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. 13 They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” 14 Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). 17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her. 7. The Roman soldiers report to the chief priests. Matthew 28:11–15: While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. 12 When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13 telling them, “You are to say, 'His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep. 14 If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.’” 15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day. 8. The disciples respond in unbelief to the report from the women that Christ had risen from the dead. Luke 24:9–12: When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. 11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. 9. Jesus appears to the disciples. Luke 24:36–47: While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you." 37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have." 40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, "Do you have anything here to eat?" 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence. 44 He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms." 45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” 10. Christ appeared to many others after His resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:3–8: For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me [Apostle Paul]. Faith Lesson 1. The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ are true historical events that form the foundation to the Christian Faith. 2. Without Christ’s death on the Cross, our sins are not forgiven. 3. Without Christ’s resurrection, our faith is in vain (1 Cor. 15:14). 4. No other self-acclaimed prophet has risen from the dead. The fact that Christ did separates Him from all others, proving that He was God in the flesh. 5. The resurrection proves that all believers will receive resurrected bodies after death. 6. Mary Magdalene encapsulates what it means to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Do we love the Lord as Mary did?

Bethlehem is the birthplace of Jesus. The Church of the Nativity is exactly where Christ was born. See and learn all about it. Manager's Square, Manger, Star, Wise Men, Mary and Joseph, Shepherds, Rachel’s Tomb, Shepherds' Fields, Herodian Fortress, and more. Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem Photo Gallery Places of Interest Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem Introduction Welcome to the Church of the Nativity. Many significant events from the Bible took place here. These are the highlights. 1. The location of Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity is on top of Tel Bethlehem. Under this area is ancient Bethlehem. 2. Bethlehem is where King David lived before becoming King of Israel. 3. This is also where Jesus was born, and the Word became flesh. So, we will see and experience the very place where Jesus was born. 4. We'll see evidence of the churches built over this site to commemorate this monumental event. 5. We'll explore a cave complex where Jerome lived while translating the Bible from Hebrew and Greek to Latin, the language of the Roman Empire. This cave complex is connected to the cave where Jesus is believed to have been born. 6. This site is not disputed as the authentic site, and to think of what happened here is beyond our ability to comprehend. Location 1. The Church of the Nativity is located in Bethlehem, about 6 miles (9 km) south of Jerusalem. 2. It is right beside Manger Square and Manger Street. 3. It is located on the upper mountain plateau route that connects the southern Negev to the upper Galilee region. Cities along this route included Beersheba, Hebron, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Bethel, Shiloh, and Shechem. It was a highly traveled route. 4. Today, Bethlehem is in the West Bank but is very safe. Thousands of tourists visit its Christian sites each month without issue. Historical Background of Ancient Bethlehem 1. Bethlehem means House of Bread. 2. It had a population of between 500 and 1,000 people in the time of Jesus. 3 . The area of Manger Square, the Church of the Nativity, and the area around them actually sit upon a tel. This is called Tel Bethlehem, where the original town was located. 4. Many of the homes consisted of caves and structures. Often, a house would have both a cave below it and a home above or beside it. 5. The caves would be used for living quarters and livestock keeping, as they were cool in the summer and warm in the winter. 6. Jewish, secular, and Christian scholars and archaeologists all agree that this is the birthplace of Jesus. There is no dispute that this is the authentic site. Historical Background of the Church of the Nativity Period of Abraham - 2050 BC Pottery discovered under the church dates to Abraham's time. Period of David - 1000 BC Pottery discovered under the church dates to King David's time. Period of Christ's Birth - 4 BC The Bible attests to Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. According to archaeological evidence and eyewitness accounts, Jesus was born in a cave where animals were kept, so He was placed in a manger after birth. Under the Church of the Nativity lies a cave complex where Jesus was born. Period After Christ's Return to Heaven - 29 BC Shortly after Christ’s ascension to heaven, worshipers began marking key places associated with Jesus's life and ministry. Christ’s birthplace was marked, and worshipers began protecting and commemorating the site. Period of Roman Emperor Hadrian - 135 AD In 135 AD, Hadrian destroyed the venerated site Christians had protected. Hadrian erected a shrine to Adonis, the Greek god of beauty and desire, atop Christ's birthplace. He desecrated many holy sites throughout Israel and built shrines to false gods on top of them. One of these is Golgotha, where the Church of the Holy Sepulcher is today. There, he built a temple to Jupiter and Venus. He renamed Jerusalem to Aelia Capitolina and renamed Israel to Palestine in an attempt to erase any Jewish connection to the Holy Land. Period of Early Church Fathers - 100 to 339 AD Evidence that this was Jesus's birthplace also surfaced in the writings of Justin Martyr (150 AD), Origen (248 AD), and Eusebius (314 AD). Period of Roman Emperor Constantine - 339 AD Helena, the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, received Christ as her Savior and came to the Holy Land to build churches on key Christian sites. Constantine and his mother, Helena, commissioned the construction of the Church of the Nativity over the cave that marked the birthplace of Jesus. It was dedicated in 339 AD. It had an octagonal floor plan placed directly over the cave, with a large church extending westward. It was built in the shape of a cross. In the center of the octagonal part, a viewing area with a railing provided a view of the cave. Part of the church's original mosaic floor has survived and remains visible. Period of Jerome - 382 to 405 AD Jerome, who translated Greek and Hebrew manuscripts into Latin (the language of the Roman Empire) to form the Latin Vulgate, did much of his translation work in a cave beside the Church of the Nativity from 382 to 405 AD. He was later buried here, and today it’s known as Jerome’s Grotto. The Crusaders carried his remains to Rome around 1165. Period of Samaritan Revolt - 529 AD The church was burned down during a Samaritan revolt. Period of Roman Emperor Justinian - 565 AD Justinian rebuilt a new church over Constantine's church in 565 AD, which has survived to this day. This church Justinian built is the world's oldest functioning church. Period of the Persian Conquest - 614 AD The Church of the Nativity was the only church the Persians didn't destroy during their conquest of the Holy Land in 614 AD because they saw paintings outside the church honoring the Magi from the east, who were fellow Persians. Period of the Crusaders - 1165 AD The Crusaders renovated the church, painting murals on the pillars and mosaics on the walls of the central nave. Period of Muslim Rule - 1187 to 1917 AD The Church of the Nativity suffered prolonged decline after the Ottoman conquest of the Holy Land in 1516 AD. The nave was largely abandoned and used as stables and for other secular purposes. To prevent people from entering the church with horses and cattle, they walled up the main entrance and replaced it with a small door, now known as the "Door of Humility" because visitors had to bend down to pass through it. The church was restored and repaired several times during this period. Period of Modern Time - 1917 to Present The church has undergone several renovations since the Crusader period. In 2012, the church complex became the first Palestinian site to be listed as a World Heritage Site at the World Heritage Committee's 36th session on 29 June. Today, the Roman Catholic, Armenian, and Greek Orthodox churches control the church. The Greek Orthodox Church cares for the Main Nave and Grotto of the Nativity. A 25-million-USD renovation has recently been completed at the Church of the Nativity. Places of Interest 1. Manger Square is located directly west of the Church of the Nativity. 2. Entrance to the church The upper mantle and columns located are from Justinian's church (565 AD). Door Arch from the Crusader Period (1165 AD). Door of Humility – Provides a humble entrance and keeps horsemen and carts from entering the church to loot it during the Muslim Ottoman Period (1500 AD). 3. Entrance Lobby To the right of the entrance lobby is a large area where excavations have revealed archaeological layers dating from Abraham to the present. 4. Main Nave The Main Nave dates to the Byzantine Period and was built by Justinian ( 565 AD). The structure is supported by 40 limestone pillars, arranged in two rows on each side, all dating from the Byzantine Period. Many pillars have paintings of kings and saints from the Crusader Period (1165 AD). Above the pillars on the walls are Crusader-period mosaics. Some show the genealogy of Jesus. The mosaics of the Church of Constantine (constructed in 339 AD) are located beneath the church's modern floor. 5. High Altar (front part of the nave) Mosaics of the Church of Constantine (339 AD) are on the left side of the High Altar. 6. Birthplace Grotto Located under the main altar. The entrance is to the right of the altar, and the exit is to the left. The cave has an eastern niche called the "Altar of Nativity." A 14-pointed silver star marks the exact spot where Jesus was born beneath this altar. The 14 points on the star represent the three sets of 14 generations in Jesus Christ's genealogy: 14 from Abraham to David, 14 from David to the Babylonian captivity, and 14 from the Babylonian captivity to Jesus. At the center of the 14-pointed star is a circular hole through which one can reach in to touch the stone, said to be the original stone on which Mary lay when she gave birth to Jesus. The place where Christ was placed in a manger is on the right side of the grotto. The actual manger is in Italy at the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. Right beside the manger is the "Altar of the Magi" commemorating the visit of the Magi at Christ's birth. 7. Church of St. Catherine A Roman Catholic Church named after Catherine, who was a 4th-century martyr from Alexandria. It was built in 1880 AD upon the ruins of a 5th-century monastery and a 12th-century Crusader church. Courtyard Statue of Jerome in the courtyard 8. A cave complex containing several chapels is accessed from St. Catherine's Church by a narrow staircase on the right. The Chapel of Saint Joseph commemorates the angel's appearance to Joseph, commanding him to flee to Egypt. Chapel of the Innocents commemorates the children killed by Herod. Tomb of Eusebius of Cremona. A disciple and companion of Jerome, associated with his monastery in Bethlehem. Memorial tomb commemorating Jerome. The Chapel of Jerome is where Jerome lived while translating the Bible from Hebrew and Greek to Latin (the Vulgate) from 382 to 405 AD . This cave complex connects to the grotto where Christ was born. Stairs from Jerome's cave to the ground floor above. Birth of Christ in the Bible 1. Bethlehem was the prophesied birthplace of Christ. Micah 5:2: But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. 2. Christ was born in Bethlehem as prophesied. Luke 2:1–7: In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to his own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 3. Many angels appeared to the shepherds near Bethlehem who were watching their flocks. Luke 2:8–16: And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 4. Wise men (Magi) from the east visited and worshiped Christ in Bethlehem. Matthew 2:1–12: Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: 6 "'And you, O Bethlehem , in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.'" 7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem , saying, "Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him." 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house they saw the child with Mary, his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. 5. God warned Joseph to flee to Egypt because Herod planned to kill Jesus. Matthew 2:13-15: Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt , and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him .” 14 When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, 15 and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” 6. Herod had all the male children 2 years and younger murdered here in Bethlehem in his attempt to kill Christ. Matthew 2:16–18: Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: 18 "A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.” 7. After the death of Herod, Jesus and His family returned to Israel to live in Nazareth. Matthew 2:19-23: Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel , for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” 21 Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. 23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth , that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.” Faith Lesson from the Birth of Christ 1. Bethlehem was the prophesied birthplace of Christ. 2. Christ fulfilled over 2 00 prophecies regarding his first coming. 3. The birth of Christ was a historical supernatural event witnessed by many. 4. The fulfillment of prophecy proves that Christ was the Son of God and that the Bible is inspired. 5. Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection were all miraculous events, proving Christ to be the very Son of God. 6. Christ claimed to be God in the flesh and proved it through His supernatural life and miracles. 7. Do we believe Christ is the Son of God, and have we received Him as our Lord and Savior?

May 1-17, 2026, Registration Form. In-depth 17-day Bible-centered Holy Land tour trip to Israel that allows you to see more holy sites in Israel. Holy Land Trip Registration Form May 1~17, 2 026 Trip How to Register and Secure Your Spot on the Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime! 1. Fill out and submit the online registration form below. 2. Upon receiving and accepting your form, we will notify you of availability and acceptance into the tour trip group. 3. Upon acceptance into the group, please pay your $500 non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot. Registration Deposit Link Final Paym ent Link CONTACT INFO: Pastor Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website: HolyLandSite.com NEXT STEPS 1. Upon receiving and accepting your form, we will notify you of availability and acceptance into the tour trip group. 2. Upon acceptance into the group, please pay your $500 non-refundable deposit to confirm your spot. Registration Deposit Link Final Payment Link 3. In the meantime, check out our video teachings to the left or see other info about Holy Land Trip orientation, etc. CONTACT INFO: Pastor Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website: HolyLandSite.com TOUR HOSTS Dr. Todd & Letsy Fink - Tour Hosts More about the Finks

If you want an in-depth Bible-centered trip and see more holy sites in Israel than other tours, then this trip is designed for you. Holy Land Trips Final Payment Secure Payment Link Holy Land Trip Final Payment To complete your final deposit payment, please send $1,850 by credit card, PayPal, or check. Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by credit card or PayPal, a 4% fee is added to your total amount due to fees charged by the credit card and PayPal providers. If paying by credit card or PayPal, click the button below. PayPal does not require you to create a PayPal account to use your credit card. $1,850.00 Final Payment Payment can be made for more than one person if needed. If paying by check, please send your check to the following address: Holy Land Site (Make checks payable to: Holy Land Site) 6945 Burnett St., SE Salem, OR, 97317-5202 (Using regular mail is preferred as there's not always someone available to sign for certified mail).

Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel. In-depth Bible-centered tour trips to Israel. May 1-17, 2026, 17-Day Package Trip. Affordable tours of all the biblical sites in Israel. Holy Land Tour Trip to Is rael The Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime May 1 ~ 17, 2026 17-Day Trip (Includes travel to and from Israel) This trip is currently full. Please consider our next Holy Land Trip with availability or to be placed on the waiting list. Next trip with availability: Holy Land Trip: April 30 - May 16, 2027 The length of your trip can be shortened if needed. You can start or depart the tour at any time. Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Status of Our Holy Land Tour Trips We are leading trips to Israel and have had no safety issues. All our trips are proceeding as scheduled, with no plans to cancel future trips. Would you like to have a life-changing and never-to-be-forgotten experience in the Holy Land? If so, it is our joy to invite you to join us on a trip of a lifetime to the Land of the Bible, where you will find a new dimension in understanding the Bible and the life of Jesus. We will take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, visit places where Jesus walked, lived, taught, performed miracles, walked on the water, calmed the sea, and where He was crucified and raised from the dead. We will immerse ourselves in the Land of the Bible and experience it in the depths of our souls. You will never be the same, nor will you read your Bible the same way, after a trip like this. If it's Bible you want, then this trip is for you. At each site, we will give biblical and historical teaching, along with a faith lesson. Therefore, this trip is designed to provide an in-depth study and perspective on the events and places of the Bible as outlined in the Scriptures. Our goal is to offer a highly biblical, non-touristy, and inspirational trip to the Land of the Bible. Our trips also include sites that are off the beaten path. ___________________ "An absolutely amazing trip with a guy who knows his Bible and can relate it to you in-country. I've gone to Israel with this dear friend of mine twice. It's an 11 out of 10 trip!" Dan Reeves "I've looked and looked, but I just haven't found any groups with the same approach I got spoiled by when we went with you to Israel. Also, they're not really Bible-teaching tours. Your teaching tour is still head and shoulders above anything else, so if it works out, I'd like to go with you again next year." Todd Yaney Quick Links Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,650 USD Hotel Reservation Bookings & Airplane Flights About Your Tour Hosts Trip Registration, Deposits, Payments, & Cancelation Info Documents Needed to Enter Israel Itinerary Holy Land Trip Travel Orientation Helpful Holy Land Learning Resources Anchor 5 The Holy Land Experience! 17-Day Trip (Includes travel to and from Israel) HolyLandSite.com Fee: $2 ,1 50 USD Items Included in HolyLandSite.com Fee: Transportation in Israel Via a Deluxe A/C Motorcoach All Park & Entrance Passes Holy Land Site Tour Guide and Bible Teacher (Dr. Todd Fink) Wireless Headsets for a Better Listening Experience All Tips for Tour Bus Driver and Hotel Staff Personal Expenses: $3,000 USD To keep our trips as affordable as possible, we have individuals book their own lodging, airfare, and pay for their own meals. The costs below are estimates. Your price may vary depending on airfare from your location, room selection, and the level of dining expense you prefer. Items each individual pays for on their own: Meals in Israel: $500 per person ~ Meals can be eaten at the hotels, local restaurants, or in your room. Lodging in Israel: $1,250 per person ~ Based on private, double occupancy rooms. ~ We provide links to the three hotels we use, and you book them. ~ Hotels can be found below . Airfare: $1,200 per person Personal transportation in Israel: $50 per person Note: Personal transportation means travel from Ben Gurion Airport to Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel in Tel Aviv and from Prima Park Hotel in Jerusalem to Ben Gurion Airport. Taxis are the best method of transportation. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate everyone's time schedules due to the different arrival and departure times of our passengers. However, we are happy to help in any way possible with these arrangements. Total Cost of Trip HolyLandSite.com Fee: $2,1 50 Personal Costs: $3,000 (Estimated Costs) Total: $5,1 50 USD THIS IS A CUSTOM-DESIGNED TRIP If you want to spend more time in Israel and see more holy sites, this trip is designed for you. Most trips to the Holy Land include around 7-8 full touring days in Israel. This severely limits what can be seen. Therefore, most who go to the Holy Land miss seeing many significant holy sites. Our trips include 13 full touring days in Israel. This allows you to see almost every significant site in Israel. A 17-day trip like ours is typically quite expensive (if you can find one). Why can we do it so inexpensively? We eliminate tour companies, travel agencies, and tour guides, and provide these services directly. We also allow you to book your own airfare, lodging, and pay for your own meals, providing you with a great deal of flexibility and options. We are pleased to serve you and our Lord Jesus Christ by offering you this unique and affordable trip of a lifetime. Since this is a custom trip, each participant is responsible for booking their airfare, lodging, and purchasing their meals. DO WE OFFER SHORTER TOUR TRIPS? If the length of the trip is too long, you are welcome to start or end at any time. You are not required to participate in the entire trip. MEALS IN ISRAEL (Paid by Each Individual) Eating in Israel is really quite simple. Below is what most people on our tours do: Breakfast ~ The hotels provide a large buffet-style breakfast, which can be paid for when you book your lodging or at the hotel. We highly recommend eating breakfast at the hotels as it saves a lot of time. They are large buffet meals that are already prepared, hot, and ready to eat. However, if you prefer, you can eat breakfast at a local restaurant or make it yourself in your hotel room (all rooms have small refrigerators). Lunch ~ Because eating out is expensive in Israel, time-consuming with a large group, and we will not always be close to a restaurant while sightseeing, each trip participant will need to prepare a daily sack lunch. Lunch items can be purchased at local grocery stores, or you can take extra items and your leftovers from the breakfast buffets at the hotels. All hotels have refrigerators in the rooms. Dinner ~ Many enjoy the local culture by eating out at local restaurants. However, if you prefer to eat at the hotels, they offer large buffet-style dinners. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Those considering this trip should be in reasonably good physical shape. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). Each day will consist of about 8 hours of sightseeing. If desired, you are welcome to take a day off or stay on the tour bus to rest at any time during the trip. GROUP SIZE LIMIT To provide a more intimate and enhanced experience, we limit our group size to approximately 40 people. This allows us to be more efficient and see more places in Israel. Larger teams bring a different dynamic that slows things down and makes travel more difficult. AIR TRAVEL Each person will be responsible for booking their own air travel to Israel (Ben Gurion Airport). Please plan to arrive with plenty of time to attend our required orientation and get-acquainted meeting, scheduled for 7:00 pm at the Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel in Tel Aviv. Due to customs, visa processing, luggage collection, and other factors, please allow 3 hours from the time of airport arrival to hotel arrival. The hotel is approximately 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic conditions. Note: For those with the time and resources, arriving a day early will allow you to rest up and better prepare for your experience in Israel. TRANSPORTATION IN ISRAEL We will be transported via a large, air-conditioned motorcoach . Our bus driver is an Arab Christian who can take us to all the sites in Israel. LODGING IN ISRAEL During our time in Israel, we will stay at three nice hotels with private rooms and bathrooms. Our itinerary shows the hotels where we will stay: Tel Aviv, Tiberias, and Jerusalem). LUGGAGE SIZE AND AMOUNT We don't have a specific luggage size and number allowance per person, but we suggest not exceeding 40-50 lbs (18-22 kg) per piece of luggage, as it makes handling easier. The lighter, the better. You will be responsible for handling your luggage during the trip (although we, or others in the group, can help you if needed), so please pack only what you can comfortably lift. PARK & ENTRANCE PASSES Holy Land Site Ministries will pay all park and entrance fees for all sites. You are responsible for paying any entrance fees you want to see during your free time. WHAT WILL OUR VISITS TO EACH SITE BE LIKE? Our visits will typically last around two hours. We'll begin with an introduction to the site, then explore and experience its key points of interest. When touring the sites, we will take our time and walk at a leisurely pace, stopping along the way to explore and discuss the points of interest. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). We'll then find a quiet spot to reflect on the main events from the Bible that took place there and conclude with a faith lesson to learn the key truths God desires to teach us. Afterward, you will have approximately 15 minutes to purchase souvenirs, if desired. TRIP PREPARATION Please utilize the videos and information on our website, which provide helpful guidance and orientation to better understand the many biblical sites we will be visiting, the history of Israel, and other relevant information. Additionally, we will provide helpful details leading up to our trip to help you get the most out of your Holy Land experience. We also ask that you familiarize yourself with our Travel Orientation Material, which can be found on our website. You will find it extremely helpful. TIME OF YEAR FOR THIS TRIP We’ve chosen the dates of this trip to visit Israel because the weather is stable, and there are no Jewish Holidays that will interfere with our travels. DAILY ITINERARY Please note that the schedule may be slightly adjusted due to circumstances beyond our control. MONEY IN ISRAEL Credit cards and Dollars are readily accepted, and Shekels can be drawn from ATMs. INTERNET IN ISRAEL Phone SIM or eSIM cards can be purchased for around $39.99 if you want Internet service in Israel. You can also activate your phone for international service. If you don't have Internet access through your phone service, free Wi-Fi is available at each hotel, and the tour bus offers complimentary Internet service. DIGITAL MAPS OF DAILY TRIP ITINERARY For each day's tour trip itinerary , a link to a Google Map of the route and sites we'll see is provided . These maps are in the Itinerary Section. Here's an example: Tour Day 1: G oogle Map Itinerary DAILY SCHEDULE We will meet in the main lobby of each hotel at 7:15 am and depart promptly at 7:30 am to board the tour bus. We will return around 4:00 - 5:00 pm. After returning to our hotel at the end of each day, you will have free time to relax, dine at the hotel, or explore the local sites, enjoy dining out, and experience the local culture. PERSONAL TRAVEL IN ISRAEL You can take a taxi, walk, or use the bus or light rail train system. It's helpful to have Internet service (you can activate your phone or obtain an Israeli SIM or eSIM card) and use Google or Apple Maps to navigate. It will tell you which bus, light rail train, or walking route suits you best. It also works in real-time, so you can see precisely when buses and trains are arriving and departing. AGE LIMIT The minimum age for trip participants is 12 years old unless other arrangements have been made with us. ITINERARY Please see our detailed itinerary below. DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO ENTER ISRAEL Valid Passport Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Passports must have at least six months left before expiration. B2 Stay Permit This permit is issued upon arrival at the airport. Self-service kiosks are available, where you can scan your passport, and a printed B2 Stay Permit will be issued. It's essential to keep this permit safe, as you will be required to present it multiple times during your stay in Israel. For convenience, you may want to place it inside your passport or wallet. Here is our helpful Ben Gurion Arrival Orientation Video that shows all about this: https://youtu.be/65N9VktYE0c Visa Israel does not require Visas from almost all countries in the world to enter its country. However, if you are from a country that Israel does require a Visa from before entering its country, you will need to check and verify this in advance. ETA-IL Electronic Document The rules for travel to Israel have changed. Starting from January 2025, visitors from Visa-exempt countries (meaning you don't need a Visa to enter Israel) are required to obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter the state of Israel. An approved ETA-IL indicates that you are allowed to travel to Israel and stay for up to 90 days per visit. All Visa-exempt travelers to Israel must have an ETA-IL approval before they start their journey. ETA-IL is designed to smoothen border control upon arrival in Israel and ensure Israel's national security. How long is an ETA-IL valid? Obtaining an ETA-IL indicates you can travel to Israel as a tourist and stay up to 90 days. Your ETA-IL authorization is generally valid for multiple trips over a period of two years from the date your application is approved, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. What does the ETA-IL application cost? 25 NIS ($7.50 USD) per applicant. How to apply for an ETA-IL? The application is made online through the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority website. Here's the link: ETA-IL (piba.gov.il) When to apply for ETA-IL Please apply no later than one month before your trip departure date to allow for any issues that may arise. You can submit your application sooner if you prefer. Helpful video from the Israeli government website about the ETA-IL document, and how to obtain it: How to Use ETA-IL for Eligibility to Enter Israel Anchor 1 TOUR HOSTS Todd & Letsy Fink More about the Finks TRIP REGISTRATION, DEPOSITS, PAYMENTS, & CANCELATION INFO HOW TO REGISTER & CONFIRM YOUR SPOT 1. Please fill out the online registration form, and we will notify you of your acceptance on the tour trip team. 2. After being notified of your acceptance on the tour team, please pay your non-refundable registration deposit of $500 USD. Your deposit is what confirms your spot on the tour team. REGISTRATION, DEPOSIT, AND FINAL PAYMENT LINKS Holy Land Trip Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,650 USD FINAL PAYMENT DEADLINE Your final payment deadline is February 1, 2026 . For those who wish to attend this trip after February 1, 2026, we will handle reservations on a space availability basis. Thanks for your understanding. CANCEL ATIONS & REFUNDS Deposit Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries All deposit payments are non-refundable and non-transferable to other trip dates, as HolyLandSite.com has significant overhead commitments invested in each trip, including reservations, office staff, travel arrangements, bus rental, and so forth, which cannot be recuperated. Refund of Final Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries 1. If you need to cancel your trip for personal reasons before February 1, 2026 , Holy Land Site Ministries will only be able to refund one-half of your final payment. 2. If you must cancel your trip for personal reasons after February 1, 2026 , Holy Land Site Ministries will not be able to refund any of your final payment due to expenses already incurred that cannot be recuperated. Transferring Payments to a Different Tour Trip Date No payments to Holy Land Site Ministries can be transferred from one tour trip to another. Refunds from Purchases of Airline Tickets, Lodging, etc. Holy Land Site Ministries cannot refund any of these funds because they were not paid to Holy Land Site Ministries. Refund if the Trip is Canceled Due to Events Out of Our Control, like Covid, Other Viruses, War, and So Forth 1. 100% of the final payment to Holy Land Site Ministries will be refunded. 2. The deposit payment of $500 is not refundable because HolyLandSite.com has many overhead commitments invested in each trip, such as reservations, office staff, travel commitments, bus rental, and so forth, that cannot be recuperated. However, rest assured that we are "Old School" and don't cancel trips unless it's impossible for us to go. The fact that we have led tour trips during wartime reveals that we don't cancel our trips. 3. Refunds from flights and lodging will be the responsibility of each person, as these were booked personally. 4. Unfortunately, Holy Land Site Ministries cannot act as your trip insurance if the trip must be canceled or you choose to cancel for personal reasons. Therefore, we encourage you to follow our suggestions below to book your trip with little financial commitment. IDEAS TO BOOK YOUR TRIP WITH LITTLE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT 1. Book Your Lodging Through Booking.com They require no upfront charge and allow free cancelation up to one week or so before your trip. 2. If Possible, Book Your Airfare With Cancelation Coverage 3. Buy Trip Protection Insurance If you would like trip protection insurance to protect you in the event of trip cancelation for any reason, many third-party insurance agencies offer travel protection insurance in case of unforeseen cancelations. Travel Protection Agency Options Travel Guard: https://www.travelguard.com Allianz Travel Insurance: allianztravelinsurance.com Seven Corners: sevencorners.com World Nomads: https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKINGS & AIRLINE FLIGHTS Lodging For those with the time and resources, arriving a day or two early in Israel will allow you to rest up and better prepare for your experience in Israel. Hotels generally allow bookings about one year in advance. It's wise to book your lodging as soon as possible within this timeframe, as accommodations in Israel fill up quickly. Flights You can book your flights at your convenience. Most people book their flights around four to six months before the trip. Israel's main international airport is Ben Gurion Airport, abbreviated TLV. HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKING LINKS We list Booking.com as an option because they offer no upfront charges, and cancelations can be made 72 hours in advance with no additional fees. However, if you want to book using another booking platform, you are welcome to do so. When booking your lodging, please mention in the message section that you are part of the HolyLandSite.com Tour Group. They will give you better rooms, along with other benefits. Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel , 7 Peretz Berenstein Street, Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv Check-in: May 2 Check-out: May 3, one-night stay. Hotel Reservation Link: Booking.com Prima Galil Tiberias Hotel, 1 El Hadif Street, Tiberias Check-in: May 3 Check-out: May 7, four-night stay. Hotel Reservation Link: Booking.com Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem Check-in: May 7 Check-out: May 16, nine-night stay. Hotel Reservation Link: Booking.com If, for some reason, a hotel is full, just book a hotel of your choice nearby and meet us at the main lobby of the hotel at 7:15 am, where the rest of the group is staying. We will promptly depart the hotel lobby to board the tour bus at 7:30 am. CONTACT INFO: Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website : HolyLandSite.com Anchor 2 Anchor 4 DAILY ITINERARY FRI, MAY 1 DEPART FOR THE HOLY LAND Please plan to arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, no later than May 2, by 3:00 pm if possible. This will give you plenty of time to attend the required orientation and get-acquainted meeting at 7:00 pm. We'll meet at the main check-in lobby of the Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel and then go to our meeting place. Note: For those with the time and resources, arriving a day early will allow you to rest up and get better prepared for your experience in Israel. Click to see the "Ben Gurion Airport Arrival Orientation Video." SAT, MAY 2 TEL AVIV After arriving at the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, you will proceed through the airport. Please don’t lose the small B2 Stay Permit paper you will be provided at one of the kiosks. Afterward, you can take a taxi to Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel, 7 Peretz Berenstein Street, Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv. Due to customs and visa processing, please allow approximately 3 hours of travel time from the airport to the hotel. The hotel is approximately 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic conditions. The orientation and get-acquainted meeting is at 7:00 pm. Please meet in the main hotel lobby. Free time afterward. Lodging at Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel, 7 Peretz Berenstein Street, Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv. One night total. Google Map from Ben Gurion to Kfar Maccabiah Hotel SUN, MAY 3 TEL AVIV – SEA OF GALILEE AREA Refreshed from a good night's sleep, we’ll visit Old Jaffa (Joppa), the traditional home of Simon the Tanner, the port from which Jonah sailed, and the logs arrived for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. We’ll then pass through the fast-growing towns and farms of the Plain of Sharon in route to Caesarea Maritima , where the Holy Spirit came to the Gentiles and the site of major events in the lives of Peter and Paul. We’ll drive through the rolling hills of Galilee to Nazareth , where Jesus grew up, and visit the Church of the Annunciation , where the angel, Gabriel, announced to Mary that she would be the mother of the Messiah. We'll then drive through Cana , where Christ performed His first public miracle. Then it’s on to Tiberias by the beautiful Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Lodging at Prima Galil Tiberias Hotel, 1 El Hadif Street, Tiberias. Four nights total. Tour Day 1: Google Map Itinerary MON, MAY 4 SEA OF GALILEE AREA This day alone is worth the trip! We are now literally walking in the footsteps of Jesus. We'll start the day with a most memorable boat ride on the Sea of Galilee in a replica of an ancient wooden boat used during Jesus' time. We’ll visit the Mount of Beatitudes , the location of the beautiful Sermon on the Mount, where Christ preached his longest and most famous sermon. Then, on to Capernaum , where Jesus established his home ministry base and often preached in the ancient synagogue. We will continue our drive around the Sea of Galilee to Kursi , where Christ cast out a legion of demons from a demon-possessed man. We'll conclude this amazing day of walking in the footsteps of Jesus by visiting Kinar Beach, where the Feeding of the 5,000 most likely happened. At this beach, you'll have the rare treat of swimming in the beautiful waters of the Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Tour Day 2: Google Map Itinerary TUES, MAY 5 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll journey north to Caesarea Philippi , where Peter confessed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God ." We'll then visit Chorazin , one of the towns Jesus cursed because of their unbelief in Him. We’ll visit Tabgha , the place where Jesus restored Peter to fellowship and ministry. We'll wrap up the day with a visit to Magdala , the hometown of Mary Magdalene, from whom Christ cast out seven demons. Free time afterward. Tour Day 3: Google Map Itinerary WED, MAY 6 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll drive along the Jordan Valley to Beth Shean , a stunning Roman Decapolis city and the place where Saul and his son’s bodies were hanged after defeat in battle. We’ll visit Gideon’s Spring , where Gideon selected his soldiers to battle against the Midianites. We’ll return to the Sea of Galilee and finish the day on top of Mt. Arbel , the site believed to be where Christ gave the Great Commission, and where we'll see all the sites of the Sea of Galilee from its breathtaking view. Free time afterward. Tour Day 4: Google Map Itinerary THURS, MAY 7 JORDAN VALLEY AREA We’ll drive south along the Jordan Valley , following the footsteps that Jesus and His disciples would have walked, arriving at the Baptismal Site of Jesus, where John baptized Jesus. We'll provide an option for those who would like to get baptized to do so. Then to Jericho , the oldest known walled city, and the first place Joshua and the Israelites conquered upon entering the Promised Land. We’ll then visit Qumran , where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in 1947. Then, we'll ascend and enter Jerusalem as pilgrims have done since ancient times to fulfill the words of the prophet: "I was glad when they said unto me: 'Our feet shall stand within thy Gates, O Jerusalem'" (Psalms 122:1-2). Free time afterward. Lodging at Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem. Nine nights total. Tour Day 5: Google Map Itinerary FRI, MAY 8 DEAD SEA AREA We’ll begin the day by driving to Masada , a massive fortress rock column that overlooks the Dead Sea (the lowest spot on Earth). We'll ascend Masada by cable car to visit the remnants of Herod's Palace, where in 73 AD, the Zealots made their last stand against the might of Rome. We'll drive by En Gedi , pointing out where David hid in this area from King Saul. We’ll visit ancient Gomorrah , one of the cities God destroyed by fire and brimstone due to their wickedness. Then, what would a visit to Israel be without taking a dip, or rather a float, in the Dead Sea ? Free time afterward. Tour Day 6: Google Map Itinerary SAT, MAY 9 BETHLEHEM – JUDAH AREA We'll begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Herodian Fortress . While there, we'll view Bethlehem in the distance, the Shepherds' Fields, the Fields of Boaz and Ruth, and see where David kept his sheep as a young man . Then, we'll visit Bethlehem, Manger Square, and the Church of the Nativity, where Jesus was born. We’ll continue our travels to the Valley of Elah , where David slew Goliath. Then on to Beth Shemesh , where key events in the life of Samson took place and where the Ark of the Covenant was miraculously returned to the Israelites by the Philistines. Free time afterward. Tour Day 7: Google Map Itinerary SUN, MAY 10 SAMARIA AREA Today, we’ll travel north to the ancient Samaria region of the Bible. We visit Shechem , where Abraham first entered the Promised Land and erected an altar. We’ll see and drink from Jacob’s Well , where Jesus talked with the Samaritan woman. We’ll see where Joseph’s bones were buried at the Tomb of Joseph . We’ll see ancient Shiloh , where the Tabernacle resided for 369 years, and Hannah prayed for a son (Samuel). Then it’s on to ancient Bethel , where Jacob saw a ladder to heaven, where the tabernacle resided, and where Jeroboam erected a Golden Calf. We'll drive by the site of ancient Ai , the second city Joshua and the Israelites destroyed. Free time afterward. Tour Day 8: Google Map Itinerary MON, MAY 11 NEGEV & ISRAEL MUSEUM Today, we’ll travel to Hebron , where Abraham had many encounters with God and from where King David reigned over Judah for 7 1/2 years. We'll begin by seeing the Oaks of Mamre, where God made a covenant with Abraham, one of the most important covenants in the Bible. We'll then travel a short distance to the Cave of Machpelah , where the patriarchs and their wives are buried. Close to Machpelah are the ruins of ancient Tel Hebron . We'll then return to Jerusalem and visit the Israel Museum , where an amazing model of Jerusalem from 66 AD is located. We'll also see the Shrine of the Book and the archaeological wing of the museum. Free time afterward. Tour Day 9: Google Map Itinerary TUES, MAY 12 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day at the highest point on the Mount of Olives , where we'll v isit the Chapel of Ascension , the place Christ ascended back to heaven, and where His feet will touch down at His glorious second coming. We'll then visit Pater Noster Church , where Christ taught His disciples how to pray. As we descend the Mount of Olives , we’ll stop at a lookout spot that offers a magnificent view of Old City Jerusalem , allowing us to orient ourselves to the city's layout and key places . We'll see the Tombs of the Prophets , where Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are believed to be buried. We’ll then walk the Triumphal Entry Path to Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations . Along the way, we’ll visit Dominus Flevit Church , where Christ wept over Jerusalem. We’ll then see Mary’s Tomb and then finish the day visiting Gethsemane Cave , where Jesus spent His last hours before going to the cross to be crucified. Free time afterward. Tour Day 10: Google Map Itinerary WED, MAY 13 JERUSALEM Today, we’ ll visit and walk on the Temple Mount , the location of Solomon’s Temple and the holiest and most contested piece of land in the world. We'll then see the Western Wall , the Jews’ most sacred site in Israel. We’ll visit the Jerusalem Archaeological Park , which has numerous amazing attractions, including the Southern Stairs Area , the main entrance to the Temple Mount —a place where Christ and His disciples would have often been —and the likely location where those who received Christ at Pentecost were baptized. We’ll then walk through part of the Cardo , an original Roman street, and see the amazing remains of the massive Broad Wall built by King Hezekiah. We'll wind up the day by walking the Rooftop Walk over Old City Jerusalem. Free time afterward. Tour Day 11 : Google Map Itinerary THURS, MAY 14 JERUSALEM Today, we'll be privileged to visit the City of David , where everything began in Jerusalem. While in the City of David, we'll see David's Palace , ancient ruins, the remains of Nehemiah's Wall, and King David's Tomb. For those who would like, you can walk through Hezekiah's Water Tunnel , which diverts the water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam. For the others, you can walk the Canaanite Dry Tunnel . We'll then all meet and see the Pool of Siloam , where Christ healed a blind man. We’ll then walk part of the Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat), where God’s winepress of wrath will be poured out on the gathered nations at Christ's second coming and from where the blood (the height of a horse’s bridle) will flow to the Dead Sea and beyond. We'll then visit the Upper Room , the location of the Last Supper , and where an early Christian church/synagogue was built shortly after the time of Christ. Next, we'll see the House of Caiaphas , where Christ was tried before Caiaphas, Peter denied Christ three times, and where Christ was beaten and spent the night in a dungeon . While at the House of Caiaphas, we'll see a Model of Jerusalem from around 600 AD . Tour Day 12: Google Map Itinerary FRI, MAY 15 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day by walking along the Eastern Wall and seeing the famous Eastern Gate , where we'll see ancient stones dating back to Solomon's time and evidence of the original Temple Mount and its expansions over the years. Then it's on to see the Pools of Bethesda , where Jesus healed a sick man after he had waited 38 long years. We’ll walk the traditional path of the Via Dolorosa and see the 14 Stations of the Cross that lead to Golgotha, where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located today. We'll then visit and explore the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see why it's the best candidate for Golgotha. From there, we'll walk the biblical Via Dolorosa (painful path to the Cross) to Pilate’s Palace and Gabbatha (stone pavement and judgment place where Christ was condemned to crucifixion). Tour Day 13: Google Map Itinerary Farew ell Dinner at 5:30 pm. Free time afterward. SAT, MAY 16 ISRAEL - HOME Unless you plan on continuing your stay in Israel, you’ll transfer to the airport and arrive home with wonderful memories of a visit to the Land of the Bible! You will be responsible for your own transportation from the hotel to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. The hotel in Jerusalem (Prima Park) offers several options for direct transportation to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. All of them can be prearranged in advance. Check-out time at the hotel is 11:00 am. However, they will hold your luggage in a safe place if your flight is later in the day or evening. Travel time to Ben Gurion Airport is about one hour. We recommend arriving at Ben Gurion Airport at least 3 hours before flight departure. This means you should leave the hotel in Jerusalem at least 4 hours in advance. The following are your transportation options: 1. Taxi: C osts around $100 USD for up to 4 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). 2. Shuttle Taxi: Costs around $120 USD for up to 6 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). Please arrange transportation with the hotel's front desk at least a day in advance. All transportation options take approximately an hour to reach the airport and operate daily, including on Shabbat (Saturday), the Sabbath. Google Map from Prima Park Hotel to Ben Gurion Airport C li ck t o see the "Ben Gurion Airport Departure Orientation Video." SUN, MAY 17 ARRIVE HOME (Depending on when you leave for home.) Return home filled with an overflowing heart, knowing that you walked in the footsteps of Christ and experienced the actual places where many of the events in the Bible took place. Anchor 3

Holy Land Tour Trips to Israel. In-depth Bible-centered tour trips to Israel. April 30 - May 16, 2027, 17-Day Package Trip. Affordable tours of all the biblical sites in Israel. Holy Land Tour Trip to Is rael The Holy Land Experience Trip of a Lifetime April 30 ~ May 16, 2027 17-Day Trip (Includes travel to and from Israel) You can shorten the trip if needed. You can start or depart the tour at any time. Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. This trip is currently full. Please consider one of our upcoming trips or join the waiting list. Would you like a life-changing, unforgettable experience in the Holy Land? If so, we're delighted to invite you to join us on a trip of a lifetime to the Land of the Bible, where you'll gain a new dimension of understanding of the Bible and the life of Jesus. We will take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and visit places where Jesus walked, lived, taught, performed miracles, walked on the water, calmed the sea, and was crucified and raised from the dead. We will immerse ourselves in the Land of the Bible and experience it in the depths of our souls. After a trip like this, you will never be the same, and you will never read your Bible the same way. If you want a Bible-rich experience, this trip is for you. At each site, we will give biblical and historical teaching, along with a faith lesson. Therefore, this trip is designed to provide an in-depth study and perspective on the events and places of the Bible as outlined in the Scriptures. Our goal is to offer a highly biblical, non-touristy, and inspirational trip to the Land of the Bible. Our trips also include off-the-beaten-path sites. ___________________ "An absolutely amazing trip with a guy who knows his Bible and can relate it to you in-country. I've gone to Israel with this dear friend of mine twice. It's an 11 out of 10 trip!" Dan Reeves "I've looked and looked, but I just haven't found any groups with the same approach I got spoiled by when we went with you to Israel. Also, they're not really Bible-teaching tours. Your teaching tour is still head and shoulders above anything else, so if it works out, I'd like to go with you again next year." Todd Yaney Quick Links Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,850 USD Hotel Reservation Bookings & Airplane Flights About Your Tour Hosts Trip Registration, Deposits, Payments, & Cancelation Info Documents Needed to Enter Israel Itinerary Holy Land Trip Travel Orientation Helpful Holy Land Learning Resources Anchor 5 The Holy Land Experience! 17-Day Trip (Includes travel to and from Israel) Total Holy Land Trip Cost: $5,850 USD COST BREAKDOWN HolyLandSite.com Fee: $2 ,3 50 USD Items Included in HolyLandSite.com Fee: Transportation in Israel Via a Deluxe A/C Motorcoach All Park & Entrance Passes Holy Land Site Tour Guide and Bible Teacher (Dr. Todd Fink) Wireless Headsets for a Better Listening Experience All tips for the tour bus driver and hotel staff. Personal Expenses: $3,500 USD To keep our trips as affordable as possible and allow maximum flexibility, trip participants book their own lodging and airfare and pay for their own meals. The costs below are estimates. Your price may vary depending on airfare from your location, your room selection, and your preferred dining level. Items each individual pays for on their own: Meals in Israel: $500 per person ~ Meals can be eaten at the hotels, local restaurants, or in your room. Lodging in Israel: $1,550 per person ~ Based on private, double occupancy rooms. ~ We provide links to the three hotels we use, and you book them. ~ Hotels can be found below . Airfare: $1,400 per person Personal transportation in Israel: $50 per person Note: Personal transportation includes travel from Ben Gurion Airport to the Abba Hotel in Tel Aviv and from the Prima Park Hotel in Jerusalem to Ben Gurion Airport. Taxis are the best option. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate everyone's schedules because our tour participants have different arrival and departure times. However, we are happy to help with these arrangements in any way we can. Total Cost of Trip HolyLandSite.com Fee: $2,3 50 Personal Costs: $3,500 (Estimated Costs) Total: $5,8 50 USD THIS IS A CUSTOM-DESIGNED TRIP If you want to spend more time in Israel and see more holy sites, this trip is designed for you. Most Holy Land trips include about 7-8 full touring days in Israel. This severely limits what you can see. As a result, many who go to the Holy Land miss significant holy sites. Our trips include 13 full touring days in Israel. This allows you to see almost every significant site in Israel. A 17-day trip like ours is typically quite expensive (if you can find one). Why can we do it so inexpensively? We eliminate tour companies, travel agencies, and tour guides, and provide these services directly. You can also book your own airfare and lodging and pay for your own meals, giving you great flexibility and options. We are pleased to serve you and our Lord Jesus Christ by offering this unique, affordable trip of a lifetime. Because this is a custom trip, each participant is responsible for booking their airfare and lodging and purchasing their meals. DO WE OFFER SHORTER TOUR TRIPS? If the trip is too long, you can start or end at any time. You don't need to participate in the entire trip. MEALS IN ISRAEL (Paid by Each Individual) Eating in Israel is really quite simple. Below is what most people on our tours do: Breakfast ~ Hotels provide a large buffet-style breakfast, which you can pay for when you book your lodging or at the hotel. We highly recommend eating breakfast at the hotels as it saves a lot of time. They are large buffet meals that are already prepared, hot, and ready to eat. However, if you prefer, you can eat breakfast at a local restaurant or make it yourself in your hotel room (all rooms have small refrigerators). Lunch ~ Because eating out is expensive in Israel, time-consuming with a large group, and we will not always be close to a restaurant while sightseeing, each trip participant will need to prepare a daily sack lunch. You can buy lunch items at local grocery stores, or take extra items and leftovers from the hotel breakfast buffets. All hotels have in-room refrigerators. Dinner ~ Many enjoy the local culture by eating out at local restaurants. However, if you prefer to eat at the hotels, they offer large buffet-style dinners. You can also buy food at local stores and eat in your hotel room if desired (all rooms have small refrigerators). PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Those considering this trip should be in reasonably good physical shape. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). Each day includes about 8 hours of sightseeing. If you'd like, you can take a day off or stay on the tour bus to rest at any time during the trip. GROUP SIZE LIMIT To provide a more intimate, enhanced experience, we limit our group size to about 40 people. This allows us to be more efficient and see more places in Israel. Larger teams bring a different dynamic that slows things down and makes travel more difficult. AIR TRAVEL Each person will be responsible for booking their own air travel to Israel (Ben Gurion Airport). Please plan to arrive with plenty of time to attend our required orientation and get-acquainted meeting, scheduled for 7:00 pm at the Kfar Maccabiah Business & Sport Hotel in Tel Aviv. Due to customs, luggage collection, and other factors, please allow 3 hours between your airport arrival and your hotel arrival. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. Note: If you have the time and resources, arriving a day early will let you rest and better prepare for your experience in Israel. TRANSPORTATION IN ISRAEL We will travel by a large, air-conditioned motorcoach . Our bus driver is an Arab Christian who can take us to all the sites in Israel. LODGING IN ISRAEL During our time in Israel, we will stay at three nice hotels with private rooms and bathrooms. Our itinerary shows the hotels where we will stay: Tel Aviv, Tiberias, and Jerusalem. LUGGAGE SIZE AND AMOUNT We don't have a specific luggage size or number allowance per person, but we suggest keeping each piece of luggage under 40-50 lbs. (18-22 kg) to make handling easier. The lighter, the better. You will be responsible for handling your luggage during the trip (though we or others in the group can help if needed), so please pack only what you can comfortably lift. PARK & ENTRANCE PASSES Holy Land Site Ministries will pay all park and entrance fees for all sites. You are responsible for paying any entrance fees for sites you want to visit during your free time. WHAT WILL OUR VISITS TO EACH SITE BE LIKE? Our visits will typically last around two hours. We'll begin with an introduction to the site, then explore and experience its key points of interest. During the tour, we will take our time and walk at a leisurely pace, stopping along the way to explore and discuss the points of interest. Our estimated daily walking distance (including some steps and minor hiking) will be about 2 to 4 miles (3 to 6 km). We'll then find a quiet spot to reflect on the main events from the Bible that took place there and conclude with a faith lesson that teaches the key truths God wants us to learn. Afterward, you will have approximately 15 minutes to purchase souvenirs and use the bathroom. TRIP PREPARATION Please use the videos and information on our website, which provide helpful guidance and orientation to help you better understand the many biblical sites we will visit, Israel's history, and other relevant information. We will also provide helpful details leading up to our trip so you can get the most out of your Holy Land experience. We also ask that you familiarize yourself with our Travel Orientation Material, which can be found on our website. You will find it extremely helpful. TIME OF YEAR FOR THIS TRIP We chose these dates to visit Israel because the weather is stable and no Jewish holidays will interfere with our travels. DAILY ITINERARY Please note that we may adjust the schedule slightly due to circumstances beyond our control. MONEY IN ISRAEL Credit cards and Dollars are readily accepted, and you can withdraw shekels from ATMs. INTERNET IN ISRAEL You can buy a phone SIM or eSIM for around $20.00 if you want Internet service in Israel: IsraelieSIM - Israel's fastest cellular network | Pelephone . You can also activate your phone for international service. If your phone service doesn't include Internet access, free Wi-Fi is available at each hotel, and the tour bus offers complimentary Internet service. DIGITAL MAPS OF DAILY TRIP ITINERARY For each day's tour itinerary , we provide a link to a Google Map of the route and sites we'll see . These maps are in the Itinerary Section. Here's an example: Tour Day 1: G oogle Map Itinerary DAILY SCHEDULE We will meet in the main hotel lobby each day at 7:15 am to depart for the tour bus. The tour bus will leave the hotel promptly at 7:30 am. Unfortunately, we cannot wait for late arrivals, so each person is responsible for being on time. We have a schedule, and the bus will depart promptly at the indicated times . Thank you for your understanding. We will return around 4:00 - 5:00 pm. After returning to the hotel each day, you will have free time to relax, dine at the hotel, explore local sites, dine out, and experience local culture. PERSONAL TRAVEL IN ISRAEL You can take a taxi, walk, or use the bus or light rail train system. It's helpful to have Internet service (you can activate your phone or obtain an Israeli SIM or eSIM card) and use Google or Apple Maps to navigate. It will tell you which bus, light rail train, or walking route suits you best. It also works in real time, so you can see exactly when buses and trains arrive and depart. AGE LIMIT The minimum age for trip participants is 12, unless you have made other arrangements with us. ITINERARY Please see our detailed itinerary below. DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO ENTER ISRAEL Valid Passport Our Holy Land Trips are open to anyone worldwide with a valid passport for travel to Israel. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. B2 Stay Permit You receive this permit upon arrival at the airport. Self-service kiosks let you scan your passport and print your B2 Stay Permit. Keep this permit safe, as you will need to present it multiple times during your stay in Israel. For convenience, you may want to place it inside your passport or wallet. Here is our helpful Ben Gurion Arrival Orientation Video that shows all about this: https://youtu.be/65N9VktYE0c Visas Israel does not require Visas from almost all countries. However, if you are from a country that Israel requires a visa for, you will need to check and verify this in advance. ETA-IL Electronic Document Travel rules for Israel have changed. Starting in January 2025, visitors from Visa-exempt countries (meaning you don't need a Visa to enter Israel) must obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Israel. An approved ETA-IL lets you travel to Israel and stay up to 90 days per visit. All Visa-exempt travelers to Israel must obtain ETA-IL approval before starting their journey. ETA-IL is designed to smooth border control upon arrival in Israel and ensure Israel's national security. How long is an ETA-IL valid? An ETA-IL lets you travel to Israel as a tourist and stay up to 90 days. Your ETA-IL authorization is generally valid for multiple trips within two years of approval, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. What does the ETA-IL application cost? 25 NIS ($7.50 USD) per applicant. How to apply for an ETA-IL? You apply online through the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority website. Here's the link: ETA-IL (piba.gov.il) When to apply for ETA-IL Please apply at least one month before your departure date to allow time for any issues that may arise. You can submit your application sooner if you prefer. Helpful video from the Israeli government website about the ETA-IL document and how to obtain it: How to Use ETA-IL for Eligibility to Enter Israel Anchor 1 TOUR HOSTS Todd & Letsy Fink More about the Finks TRIP REGISTRATION, DEPOSITS, PAYMENTS, & CANCELATION INFO HOW TO REGISTER & CONFIRM YOUR SPOT 1. Please fill out the online registration form, and we will notify you of your acceptance to the tour team. 2. After being notified of your acceptance to the tour team, please pay your non-refundable registration deposit of $500 USD. Your deposit is what confirms your spot on the tour team. REGISTRATION, DEPOSIT, AND FINAL PAYMENT LINKS Registration Form (Required for each person) Deposit Payment ~ $500 USD Final Payment ~ $1,850 USD FINAL PAYMENT DEADLINE Your final payment deadline is February 1, 2027 . If you wish to attend this trip after February 1, 2027, we will handle reservations based on space availability. Thanks for your understanding. CANCEL ATIONS & REFUNDS Deposit Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries All deposit payments are non-refundable and non-transferable to other trip dates, as HolyLandSite.com has significant overhead commitments for each trip, including reservations, office staff, travel arrangements, bus rental, and so forth, that cannot be recovered. Refund of Final Payment to Holy Land Site Ministries 1. If you need to cancel your trip for personal reasons before February 1, 2027 , Holy Land Site Ministries will only be able to refund one-half of your final payment. 2. If you must cancel your trip for personal reasons after February 1, 2027 , Holy Land Site Ministries will not be able to refund any of your final payment due to expenses already incurred that cannot be recovered. Transferring Payments to a Different Tour Trip Date Unfortunately, we cannot transfer payments to Holy Land Site Ministries from one tour trip to another. Refunds from Purchases of Airline Tickets, Lodging, etc. Holy Land Site Ministries cannot refund any of these funds because they were not paid to Holy Land Site Ministries. Refund if the Trip is Canceled Due to Events Out of Our Control, like COVID, Other Viruses, War, and So Forth 1. 100% of the final payment to Holy Land Site Ministries will be refunded. 2. The deposit payment of $500 is not refundable because HolyLandSite.com has many overhead commitments invested in each trip, such as reservations, office staff, travel commitments, bus rental, and so forth, that cannot be recuperated. However, rest assured that we are "Old School" and don't cancel trips unless we absolutely can't go. Our experience leading tours during wartime shows we don't cancel trips. 3. Refunds from flights and lodging will be the responsibility of each person, as these were booked personally. 4. Unfortunately, Holy Land Site Ministries cannot act as your trip insurance if the trip must be canceled or you choose to cancel for personal reasons. Therefore, we encourage you to follow our suggestions below to book your trip with little financial commitment. IDEAS TO BOOK YOUR TRIP WITH LITTLE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT 1. Book Your Lodging Through Booking.com They require no upfront charge and allow free cancelation up to one week or so before your trip. 2. If Possible, Book Your Airfare with Cancelation Coverage 3. Buy Trip Protection Insurance If you would like trip protection insurance to protect you in the event of trip cancelation for any reason, many third-party insurance agencies offer travel protection insurance in case of unforeseen cancelations. Travel Protection Agency Options Travel Guard: https://www.travelguard.com Allianz Travel Insurance: allianztravelinsurance.com Seven Corners: sevencorners.com World Nomads: https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKINGS & AIRLINE FLIGHTS Lodging If you have the time and resources, arriving a day or two early in Israel will let you rest up and better prepare for your experience. Hotels generally allow bookings about one year in advance. Please book your lodging as soon as possible within this timeframe, as accommodations in Israel fill up quickly. Flights You can book your flights at your convenience. Most people book their flights 4 to 6 months before the trip. Israel's main international airport is Ben Gurion Airport, abbreviated TLV. HOTEL RESERVATION BOOKING LINKS We strongly suggest choosing the "Free Cancelation" option when booking. This will protect you if your plans change unexpectedly. You can book using the hotel's direct links below (best price) or through the booking platform of your choice. When booking your lodging, please mention in the message section that you are part of the HolyLandSite.com Tour Group . They will offer you better rooms and other benefits. Be certain to check your dates. Some of the hotel sites can be a little confusing. Sometimes the dates in the search box may be different from the correct dates. The dates you want to confirm will appear directly to the right of the room selection. You can also change currencies by checking the money box. Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv Check-in: May 1 Check-out: May 2, one-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link (If this page opens in Hebrew, go to the top left corner and click the English flag. You will then need to enter the check-in and check-out dates.) Emily's Hotel, HaGalil 66, Tiberias Check-in: May 2 Check-out: May 6, four-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link (You can also become a Club Member and save 5%.) Note: Emily's Hotel has a sister hotel (same owner) right beside it called Aviv Holiday Flat. The quality is not as nice as Emily's Hotel, but the price is much lower. Guests at Aviv Holiday Flat eat their meals in the dining room at Emily's Hotel. Here is the info if you'd like to book it instead. Aviv Holiday Flat, 2 Hanotar Street, Tiberias Hotel Direct Reservation Link Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem Check-in: May 6 Check-out: May 15, nine-night stay. Hotel Direct Reservation Link: Promo Code (Holyland12) gives our tour group a 12% discount at this hotel. Note: Be certain the promo code (Holyland12) appears in the top-right box. If you need to update the search results, the dates will be set back by one day. This can be confusing. You will need to re-enter the correct dates. Also, the dates that appear at the top of the page in the search box will be off by one day. The correct dates that matter are just to the right of the room selection option. Sorry about this! It's an issue with the hotel's website. If one of the above hotels is full, book a nearby hotel of your choice and meet us in the main lobby at 7:15 am, where the rest of the group is staying. We will depart the hotel lobby promptly at 7:30 to board the tour bus. CONTACT INFO: Todd Fink Phone: (541) 603-0881 Email: holylandsite.com@gmail.com Website : HolyLandSite.com Anchor 2 Anchor 4 DAILY ITINERARY FRI, APR 30 DEPART FOR THE HOLY LAND Please plan to arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, by 3:00 pm on May 1, if possible. This will give you plenty of time to get everything done before the required orientation and get-acquainted meeting at 7:00 pm. We'll meet in the Abba Hotel's main check-in lobby in Tel Aviv, then head to our meeting place. Note: If you have the time and resources, arriving a day early will let you rest and get better prepared for your experience in Israel. Click to see the "Ben Gurion Airport Arrival Orientation Video." SAT, MAY 1 TEL AVIV After arriving at the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, you will proceed through the airport. Please don’t lose the small B2 Stay Permit paper you'll receive at one of the kiosks. Afterward, you can take a taxi to Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv . Because of customs, luggage pickup, and other factors, please allow about 3 hours to travel from the airport to the hotel. The hotel is about 15 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. The orientation and get-acquainted meeting is at 7:00 pm. Please meet in the main hotel lobby. Free time afterward. Lodging at Abba Hotel Tel Aviv-Yafo - Formerly Numa, Sheerit Israel 1, Tel Aviv. One night total. Google Map from Ben Gurion to Abba Hotel, Tel Aviv SUN, MAY 2 TEL AVIV – SEA OF GALILEE AREA Refreshed from a good night's sleep, we’ll visit Old Jaffa (Joppa), the traditional home of Simon the Tanner, the port from which Jonah sailed, and the port from which the logs arrived for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. We’ll then pass through the fast-growing towns and farms of the Plain of Sharon en route to Caesarea Maritima , where the Holy Spirit came to the Gentiles and where major events in the lives of Peter and Paul took place. We’ll drive through the rolling hills of Galilee to Nazareth , where Jesus grew up, and visit the Church of the Annunciation , where the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would be the mother of the Messiah. We'll then drive through Cana , where Christ performed His first public miracle. Then it’s on to Tiberias by the beautiful Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Lodging at Emily's or Aviv Flat Hotel, HaGalil 66, Tiberias. Four nights total. Tour Day 1: Google Map Itinerary MON, MAY 3 SEA OF GALILEE AREA This day alone is worth the trip! We're literally walking in the footsteps of Jesus. We'll start the day with a most memorable boat ride on the Sea of Galilee in a replica of an ancient wooden boat used during Jesus' time. We’ll visit the Mount of Beatitudes , home to the beautiful Sermon on the Mount, where Christ preached his longest and most famous sermon. Then we'll head to Capernaum , where Jesus established his ministry base and often preached in the ancient synagogue. We will continue our drive around the Sea of Galilee to Kursi , where Christ cast out a legion of demons from a demon-possessed man. We'll end this amazing day by walking in Jesus' footsteps at Kinar Beach, where the Feeding of the 5,000 most likely took place. At this beach, you'll have the rare treat of swimming in the beautiful waters of the Sea of Galilee . Free time afterward. Tour Day 2: Google Map Itinerary TUES, MAY 4 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll journey north to Caesarea Philippi , where Peter confessed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God ." We'll then visit Chorazin , one of the towns Jesus cursed because of their unbelief in Him. We’ll visit Tabgha , the place where Jesus restored Peter to fellowship and ministry. We'll wrap up the day with a visit to Magdala , Mary Magdalene's hometown, where Christ cast out seven demons. Free time afterward. Tour Day 3: Google Map Itinerary WED, MAY 5 SEA OF GALILEE AREA We’ll drive along the Jordan Valley to Beth Shean , a stunning Roman Decapolis city and the place where Saul and his son’s bodies were hanged after defeat in battle. We’ll visit either Gideon’s Spring , where Gideon selected his soldiers to battle the Midianites, or Tel Megiddo (Armageddon) , where a key end-time battle will happen. We’ll return to the Sea of Galilee and end the day on Mt. Arbel , believed to be where Christ gave the Great Commission, and take in the Sea of Galilee from its breathtaking view. Free time afterward. Tour Day 4: Google Map Itinerary THURS, MAY 6 JORDAN VALLEY AREA We’ll drive south along the Jordan Valley , following the footsteps Jesus and His disciples would have walked, and arrive at Jesus' baptismal site, where John baptized Him. We'll offer an option for those who would like to be baptized. Then we'll go to Jericho , the oldest known walled city and the first place Joshua and the Israelites conquered upon entering the Promised Land. We’ll then visit Qumran , where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in 1947. Then, we'll ascend and enter Jerusalem as pilgrims have since ancient times, fulfilling the prophet's words: "Our feet shall stand within thy Gates, O Jerusalem ." Free time afterward. Lodging at Prima Park Hotel Jerusalem: 2 Vilnay Street, Jerusalem. Nine nights total. Tour Day 5: Google Map Itinerary FRI, MAY 7 DEAD SEA AREA We’ll start the day by driving to Masada , a massive rock fortress overlooking the Dead Sea (the lowest spot on earth). We'll take the cable car up Masada to see the remnants of Herod's Palace, where the Zealots made their last stand against Rome in 73 AD. We'll drive by En Gedi , pointing out where David hid from King Saul. We’ll visit ancient Gomorrah , one of the cities God destroyed with fire and brimstone because of their wickedness. Then, what's a visit to Israel without taking a dip, or rather a float, in the Dead Sea ? Free time afterward. Tour Day 6: Google Map Itinerary SAT, MAY 8 BETHLEHEM – JUDAH AREA We'll begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Herodian Fortress . From there, we'll view Bethlehem in the distance, the Shepherds' Fields, the Fields of Boaz and Ruth, and the place where David kept his sheep as a young man . Then, we'll visit Bethlehem, Manger Square, and the Church of the Nativity, where Jesus was born. We’ll continue our travels to the Valley of Elah , where David slew Goliath. Then we'll head to Beth Shemesh , where key events in Samson's life took place, and the Philistines miraculously returned the Ark of the Covenant to the Israelites. Free time afterward. Tour Day 7: Google Map Itinerary SUN, MAY 9 SAMARIA AREA Today, we’ll travel north to the ancient Samaria region of the Bible. We visit Shechem , where Abraham first entered the Promised Land and erected an altar. We’ll see and drink from Jacob’s Well , where Jesus talked with the Samaritan woman. We’ll see where Joseph’s bones were buried at the Tomb of Joseph . We’ll see ancient Shiloh , where the Tabernacle resided for 369 years, and Hannah prayed for a son (Samuel). Then we'll head to ancient Bethel , where Jacob saw a ladder to heaven, the tabernacle once stood, and Jeroboam erected a golden calf. We'll drive by the site of ancient Ai , the second city Joshua and the Israelites destroyed. Free time afterward. Tour Day 8: Google Map Itinerary MON, MAY 10 NEGEV & ISRAEL MUSEUM Today, we’ll travel to Hebron , where Abraham had many encounters with God and from where King David reigned over Judah for 7 1/2 years. We'll begin at the Oaks of Mamre, where God made a covenant with Abraham, one of the Bible's most important covenants. We'll then travel a short distance to the Cave of Machpelah , where the patriarchs and their wives are buried. Close to Machpelah are the ruins of ancient Tel Hebron . We'll then return to Jerusalem and visit the Israel Museum , which features an amazing model of Jerusalem from 66 AD. We'll also see the Shrine of the Book and the museum's archaeological wing . Free time afterward. Tour Day 9: Google Map Itinerary TUES, MAY 11 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day at the highest point on the Mount of Olives , where we'll v isit the Chapel of Ascension , where Christ ascended back to heaven and where His feet will touch down at His glorious second coming. We'll then visit Pater Noster Church , where Christ taught His disciples how to pray. As we descend the Mount of Olives , we’ll stop at a lookout spot offering a magnificent view of Old City Jerusalem , helping us orient ourselves to the city's layout and key places . We'll see the Tombs of the Prophets , where Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are believed to be buried. We’ll then walk the Triumphal Entry Path to Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations . Along the way, we’ll visit Dominus Flevit Church , where Christ wept over Jerusalem. We’ll then see Mary’s Tomb and then finish the day visiting Gethsemane Cave , where Jesus spent His last hours before going to the cross to be crucified. Free time afterward. Tour Day 10: Google Map Itinerary WED, MAY 12 JERUSALEM Today, we’ ll visit and walk on the Temple Mount , home to Solomon’s Temple and the world's holiest and most contested piece of land. We'll then see the Western Wall , the Jews’ most sacred site in Israel. We’ll visit the Jerusalem Archaeological Park , which has numerous amazing attractions, including the Southern Stairs Area , the main entrance to the Temple Mount—a place where Christ and His disciples would have often been—and the likely location where those who received Christ at Pentecost were baptized. We’ll then walk through part of the Cardo , an original Roman street, and see the amazing remains of the massive Broad Wall built by King Hezekiah. We'll end the day with a walk on the Rooftop Walk over Old City Jerusalem. Free time afterward. Tour Day 11 : Google Map Itinerary THURS, MAY 13 JERUSALEM Today, we'll be privileged to visit the City of David , where it all began. While in the City of David, we'll see David's Palace , ancient ruins, the remains of Nehemiah's Wall, and King David's Tomb. If you'd like, you can walk through Hezekiah's Water Tunnel , which diverts water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam. Others can walk the Canaanite Dry Tunnel . We'll then all meet and see the Pool of Siloam , where Christ healed a blind man, and walk part of the Pilgrimage Road . We’ll then walk part of the Kidron Valley (Valley of Jehoshaphat), where God’s winepress of wrath will be poured out on the gathered nations at Christ's second coming and from where the blood (the height of a horse’s bridle) will flow to the Dead Sea and beyond. We'll then visit the Upper Room , where the Last Supper took place and where an early Christian church/synagogue was built shortly after Christ. Next, we'll see the House of Caiaphas , where Christ was tried before Caiaphas, Peter denied Christ three times, and where Christ was beaten and spent the night in a dungeon . While at the House of Caiaphas, we'll see a Model of Jerusalem from around 600 AD . Tour Day 12: Google Map Itinerary FRI, MAY 14 JERUSALEM We’ll begin the day by walking along the Eastern Wall and seeing the famous Eastern Gate , where we'll see ancient stones dating back to Solomon's time and evidence of the original Temple Mount and its expansions over the years. Then we'll see the Pools of Bethesda , where Jesus healed a sick man after he had waited 38 long years. We’ll walk the traditional path of the Via Dolorosa and see the 14 Stations of the Cross that lead to Golgotha, where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located today. We'll then visit and explore the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see why it's the best candidate for Golgotha. From there, we'll walk the biblical Via Dolorosa to Pilate’s Palace and Gabbatha (the stone-paved judgment place where Christ was condemned to crucifixion). Tour Day 13: Google Map Itinerary Farew ell Dinner at 6:00 pm. Free time afterward. SAT, MAY 15 ISRAEL - HOME Unless you plan to continue your stay in Israel, you’ll transfer to the airport and arrive home with wonderful memories of your visit to the Land of the Bible! You will be responsible for your own transportation from the hotel to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. The hotel in Jerusalem (Prima Park) offers several options for direct transportation to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. You can arrange all of them in advance. The hotel check-out time is 11:00 am. However, they will hold your luggage in a safe place if your flight is later in the day or evening. The drive to Ben Gurion Airport takes about one hour. We recommend arriving at Ben Gurion Airport at least 3 hours before flight departure. This means you should leave the hotel in Jerusalem at least 4 hours in advance. The following are your transportation options: 1. Taxi: C osts around $140 USD for up to 4 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). 2. Shuttle Taxi: Costs around $160 USD for up to 6 people (depending on how much luggage each person has). Please arrange transportation with the hotel's front desk at least a day in advance. All transportation options take approximately an hour to reach the airport and operate daily, including on Shabbat (Saturday). Google Map from Prima Park Hotel to Ben Gurion Airport C li ck t o see the "Ben Gurion Airport Departure Orientation Video." SUN, MAY 16 ARRIVE HOME (Depending on when you leave for home.) Return home with an overflowing heart, knowing you walked in the footsteps of Christ and experienced the places where many events in the Bible took place. Anchor 3

It’s the place where it’s believed Jesus was baptized, and where John the Baptist and the disciples of Jesus baptized many people as well. Thousands of pilgrims are baptized here each year because of its spiritual significance. It’s also the location where the Israelites crossed the Jordan. Qasr al-Yahud Baptismal Site, Jew’s Palace (Castle of the Jews), Jordanian Baptismal Site of Jesus, St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, Original Church of John the Baptist, Cave of John the Baptist Qasr al Yahud Baptismal Site of Jesus Photo Gallery Places of Interest Jordan River Baptismal Site of Jesus Qasr al-Yehud Introduction Welcome to this site on the Jordan River, where the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land, John the Baptist baptized Jesus, and many other miraculous events took place. 1. It was here that the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land. The body of water was about 20 miles (32 km) long, 2 miles (3.2 km) wide, and about 120 ft (37 m) deep. 2. Elijah parted the waters of the Jordan River here (2 Kings 2:6-8). 3. Right after Elijah parted the waters here, he was taken up into heaven in a chariot of fire (2 Kings 2:9-12). 4. After Elijah was taken up to heaven, Elisha received a double portion of the spirit of Elijah and also parted the waters of the Jordan River here (2 Kings 2:9-14). 5. John the Baptist baptized many people here. 6. It was here that John the Baptist baptized Jesus, and the voice of God spoke: Mark 1:9-11: In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased .” 7. Just across the river was the famous place called "Bethany Beyond the Jordan." 8. There are many churches on the other side of the river in the country of Jordan, marking these events. 9. Just imagine all these events happening right here. We are on holy ground. Location 1. It’s located about 2 miles (3.2 km) east of Hwy. 90, across from Jericho. 2. It’s also known as Qaser al-Yahud, Kasser al-Yahud, and the Baptismal Site of Jesus. 3. It’s the place where it’s believed Jesus was baptized, and where John the Baptist and the disciples of Jesus baptized many people as well. 4. The water is not quite as clean as Yardenit, but thousands of pilgrims are baptized there each year because of its spiritual significance. 5. It’s also the believed location where the Israelites crossed the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land. 6. For those desiring to get baptized here in the Jordan River, the Qsar al-Yahud gift shop provides white robes and towels for a small fee. Historical Background 1. The concept of baptism is rooted in the Old Testament. As far back as Genesis, eight people were saved from the great flood of God’s judgment. The Apostle Peter indicated that the water of the flood “symbolizes baptism that now saves you” (1 Pet. 3:21). 2. Old Testament prophets such as Isaiah, Ezekiel, and King David likewise used water as an external symbol for internal cleansing (Isa. 1:16; Ezek. 36:25; Ps. 51:2). Isaiah 1:16: Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil. 3. The word baptize, baptized, baptizing, or baptismal is mentioned around 72 times in the New Testament and, therefore, shows the value God places upon it. Places of Interest 1. Qasr al-Yahud Baptismal Site 2. Hwy. 90 3. Jew’s Palace (Castle of the Jews) 4. Jordanian Baptismal Site of Jesus 5. St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church: On the Jordanian Site of the river. 6. Original Church of John the Baptist. At least five churches have been built at this location, dating back to the first and second centuries AD. 7. Cave of John the Baptist 8. Greek Orthodox Church of St John the Baptist 9. The believed location where the Israelites crossed the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land. 10. This area is also associated with the ascension of the Prophet Elijah into heaven, which is commemorated at a hill called Tell Mar Elias or Jabal Mar-Elias (Elijah’s Hill). Baptism in the Bible 1. Baptism in the Old Testament. Baptism in the Old Testament had a different name and purpose than believers' baptism in the New Testament. It served as a regular purification ritual. Before entering the temple, synagogue, or entering any religious building, the Jews would purify themselves (ritual cleansing) in Mikvahs (purification pools). They also purified themselves before the Sabbath, feast days, and so forth. Purification for a Jew was a regular part of life. Purification involved confessing sins, entering a pool of water, immersing oneself completely, and putting on a new set of clothes. Mikvahs were found everywhere, and some of the wealthier members of the population had their own private mikvahs. 2. The Baptism of John the Baptist. John’s baptism picked up on this Jewish concept and took it a step further. His baptism was primarily a baptism of repentance in preparation for the coming Messiah. Matthew 3:1–6: In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.’” 4 Now John wore a garment of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, 6 and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 3. Jesus was baptized by John. Matthew 3:13–17: Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15 But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus was baptized , immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; 17 and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” 4. Why did Jesus get baptized if He was God in the flesh and perfect? After all, the purpose for Baptism in Jesus’ day was a baptism of repentance. Jesus permitted John the Baptist to baptize Him in order to fulfill all righteousness. He was setting an example for all to follow. Jesus didn’t repent of anything because He was perfect. It also gave God an opportunity to speak audibly and show His pleasure and affirmation of Christ as the Son of God. 5. The Baptism of Jesus. The message and baptism of Jesus dealt with repentance from sin and acceptance of Himself as the Messiah. Matthew 4:17: From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” John 4:1–3: Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John 2 (although Jesus himself did not baptize , but only his disciples), 3 he left Judea and departed again for Galilee. 6. Baptism in the rest of the New Testament. Baptism always followed salvation and was an outward proclamation of an inner conversion. On the day of Pentecost, 3,000 people were saved and were baptized. They would have used the existing Jewish mikvahs as baptismal pools. Acts 2:41: So those who received his word were baptized , and there were added that day about three thousand souls. Baptism was an act of obedience symbolizing the believer's faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior. Romans 6:1–3: What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. In the same way Jesus died, was buried, and rose again to new life, baptism follows this same pattern. The believer’s placement under the water symbolizes burial and death to sin, and rising up out of the water symbolizes new life in Christ. Baptism does not save us in and of itself; it follows salvation and expresses what has already taken place in the heart of a believer. Baptism is a declaration to others that we identify with Christ and are now His disciples. Baptism is commanded in many passages of the Bible, and unless we are unable to do so for a specific reason, we should be baptized. Matthew 28:18–20: And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Acts 2:37–38: Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Faith Lesson from Baptism 1. Jesus didn’t need to be baptized but did so in order to be an example for us. 2. If we are genuine believers in Christ and have not been baptized, we should do so in order to obey Christ. 3. Baptism does not save us in and of itself, but when connected with our faith in Christ, it cleanses us of sin, identifies us with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, and declares to others that we are followers of Christ. 4. Baptism symbolizes our newness of life in Christ and that we are now dead to being controlled and defeated by sin. Romans 6:4: We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.