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See a biblical presentation of the end times. Learn about the Great Tribulation, Anti-Christ, Second Coming of Christ, Millennial Reign, and more. All filmed on location in Israel on the Mount of Olives, where Christ spoke to His disciples about the end times. Final days, return of Jesus, when will the world end, armageddon, Jerusalem. Mount of Olives: End Times Explained Mt. of Olives: End Times Explained Welcome to the Holy Land and the biblical site of the Mt. of Olives. See the Bible come to life as we take a look at an event from Scripture that is one of the greatest that will ever take place. On the Mt. of Olives, Christ, along with the angels and armies of heaven (who are believers) will return in power and great glory at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. The return of Christ to earth will be one of the greatest culminating events prophesied in Scripture. Let’s look at some fascinating aspects about this great event. Every being that has ever been created will see it. Rev. 1:7: “Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen.” It conquers and flips all evil powers into submission to Christ. Rev. 19:15: “From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty.” Christ coming will be in extreme power and great glory. Matt. 24:29-31: “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” Revelation 6:12-17: “When he opened the sixth seal, I looked, and behold, there was a great earthquake, and the sun became black as sackcloth, the full moon became like blood, and the stars of the sky fell to the earth as the fig tree sheds its winter fruit when shaken by a gale. The sky vanished like a scroll that is being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place. Then the kings of the earth and the great ones and the generals and the rich and the powerful, and everyone, slave and free, hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains, calling to the mountains and rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who is seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?" Christ will physically arrive and touch down right here on the Mt. of Olives. Zech. 14:1-4: “Behold, a day is coming for the LORD, when the spoil taken from you will be divided in your midst. For I will gather all the nations against Jerusalem to battle, and the city shall be taken and the houses plundered and the women raped. Half of the city shall go out into exile, but the rest of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then the LORD will go out and fight against those nations as when he fights on a day of battle. On that day his feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives that lies before Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall be split in two from east to west by a very wide valley, so that one half of the Mount shall move northward, and the other half.” Believers and angels will return with Christ in power and great glory as well. Revelation 19:11-21: “Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, "Come, gather for the great supper of God, to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave, both small and great." And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse, and all the birds were gorged with their flesh.” Christ will then judge the nations and separate the sheep, who are believers, from the goats who are unbelievers. Revelation 14:14-20: “Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and seated on the cloud one like a son of man, with a golden crown on his head, and a sharp sickle in his hand. And another angel came out of the temple, calling with a loud voice to him who sat on the cloud, “Put in your sickle, and reap, for the hour to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is fully ripe.” So he who sat on the cloud swung his sickle across the earth, and the earth was reaped. Then another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. And another angel came out from the altar, the angel who has authority over the fire, and he called with a loud voice to the one who had the sharp sickle, “Put in your sickle and gather the clusters from the vine of the earth, for its grapes are ripe.” So the angel swung his sickle across the earth and gathered the grape harvest of the earth and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. And the winepress was trodden outside the city, and blood flowed from the winepress, as high as a horse’s bridle, for 1,600 stadia (this would be 200 miles and would end at the Red Sea). The judgment on unbelievers will be severe. Here’s just a partial glimpse of what it will be like. Zechariah 14:12: “And this shall be the plague with which the LORD will strike all the peoples that wage war against Jerusalem: their flesh will rot while they are still standing on their feet, their eyes will rot in their sockets, and their tongues will rot in their mouths.” What can we observe and learn from these events that will happen at this significant place? Every being that has ever been created will see Christ’s return in power and great glory. Christ’s return conquers and flips all evil powers into submission to Him. Christ coming will be in extreme power and great glory. Christ will physically arrive and touch down right here on the Mt. of Olives Believers and angels will return with Christ in power and great glory as well. Christ will then judge the nations and separate the sheep, who are believers from the goats, who are unbelievers. What about us? Are we living a devoted life to Christ and serving Him? Are we living a life that is watchful and ready? Will we be the ones who come with Christ at His return or those whom Christ judges?

April 30 - May 16, 2027, 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 April 30 ~ May 16, 2027, 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

The Antonia Fortress was a military headquarters and barracks built to protect the Temple Mount. Later, it was renovated by the Hasmoneans (164 BC) and Herod the Great (19 BC) to protect the Temple Mount area and the city of Jerusalem. It was named after Herod's patron, Mark Antony. Some believe Jesus appeared before Pilate here and was condemned to death by crucifixion. Antonia Fortress Photo Gallery Places of Interest Antonia Fortress Location 1. The Antonia Fortress was located just outside the Temple Mount area on its northwestern side. 2. Today, Umariya Elementary School and other buildings lie atop its ruins. 3. Tradition places the Antonia Fortress as the beginning point of the Via Dolorosa (painful path). Historical Background 1. The geography of ancient Jerusalem dictated its defenses. While the city was naturally protected by steep ravines to the east, south, and west, the northern approach lacked natural barriers. Consequently, the northwestern corner of the Temple Mount was its most vulnerable point. 2. Following the Babylonian exile, a fortress called the Birah (citadel) was constructed near this spot by Nehemiah to protect the Second Temple on the Temple Mount originally built by King Solomon. 3. During the Hellenistic and Hasmonean periods (332-63 BC), the Jewish priest-kings built a heavily fortified tower known as the Baris. It housed a military garrison, protected the northern flank of the Temple Mount, and securely stored the sacred vestments of the High Priest. 4. Construction by Herod the Great (35–31 BC). When Herod the Great captured Jerusalem and secured his throne as the Roman client king of Judea in 37 BCE, he recognized the necessity of controlling a volatile city that largely viewed him as an illegitimate ruler. He completely rebuilt and expanded the old Baris into a formidable, state-of-the-art military complex. When completed. it was a massive, strategically vital military citadel situated on a rocky escarpment at the northwestern corner of the Temple Mount, it stood as a towering symbol of military might and imperial control over the sacred heart of Judaism. 5. Herod named the citadel the Antonia Fortress in honor of his Roman patron and friend, the general and triumvir Mark Antony. Because Antony was defeated by Octavian at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC and died shortly after, the fortress was certainly built and named prior to that date. 6. Architecture: Our primary source for the physical appearance of the fortress is the 1st-century Jewish historian Flavius Josephus. He recorded that it was built on a steep rock outcropping 50 cubits (23 meters) high, covered with smooth stone slabs to prevent scaling. The Four Towers: The citadel was rectangular and featured massive corner towers. Three were 50 cubits high, but the southeastern tower was 70 cubits (32 meters) high. This specific tower offered a direct, unobstructed view down into the courts of the Temple Mount, allowing soldiers to monitor the massive crowds below. 7. Interior and Function: Though built as an impregnable fortress, Josephus noted it was designed with the luxury of a palace, containing baths, broad courtyards, and barracks large enough to house a full Roman cohort. Subterranean passages and staircases connected the fortress directly to the northern porticoes of the Temple. Was the Size of the Antonia Fortress? The exact length and width of the Antonia Fortress are not explicitly recorded in any ancient historical texts. However, modern archaeologists have been able to calculate its dimensions based on the bedrock foundation that remains today. Here are the measurements based on modern archaeological consensus, as well as the surviving ancient accounts regarding its height: 1. Length and Width (Modern Archaeological Measurements) Because the fortress was completely destroyed by the Roman army in 70 AD during the siege of Jerusalem, its footprint has been determined by measuring the massive, rectangular rock outcropping (or scarp) it was built upon. 2. Today, this bedrock foundation is located at the northwest corner of the Temple Mount, partially beneath the modern-day Omariya Boys' School. Based on surveys of this footprint, the accepted dimensions of the Antonia Fortress are roughly: Length (East to West): Approximately 115 to 120 meters. Width (North to South): Approximately 35 to 45 meters. Note on older estimates: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many historians believed the fortress was much larger—roughly 150 by 90 meters. This was because archaeologists found a massive stone pavement nearby called the Lithostrotos and assumed it was the fortress's courtyard. However, in the 1970s, archaeologist Pierre Benoit conclusively proved that this pavement belonged to a 2nd-century plaza built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, meaning Herod's original fortress was much smaller and confined strictly to the bedrock scarp). Was the Antonia Fortress Where Jesus was Tried? 1. Some believe Jesus appeared before Pilate here and was condemned to death by crucifixion. Others believe that Pilate’s Headquarters, also called Pilate’s Palace or Praetorium, was the place Christ appeared before Pilate. 2. If the stones of the Lithostrotos are from a century later, we have to ask: Where was the actual trial of Jesus? Where was Pilate's Praetorium? 3. For centuries, pilgrims assumed Pilate stayed right here at the Antonia Fortress, which is why the Via Dolorosa starts at the Antonia Fortress today. However, Roman history tells us a different story. Pontius Pilate usually lived in luxury on the Mediterranean coast in Caesarea. When he came to Jerusalem for Passover, he did not sleep in a sweaty, cramped military barracks with the common soldiers. 4. Historical records from ancient writers like Flavius Josephus and Philo indicate that Roman governors like Pilate did not stay in the cramped Antonia Fortress when visiting Jerusalem. They stayed in the most luxurious location in the city: Herod's Palace (located on the western side of the city near the modern Jaffa Gate/Tower of David). Therefore, the actual Praetorium (trial site) was almost certainly across town. 5. So why do we walk the Via Dolorosa here, on the east side? Because faith and tradition are powerful. During the Crusader and medieval periods, the ruins of Herod's palace were repurposed, and pilgrim routes shifted based on safety and the locations of churches. The Franciscans finalized this route in the Middle Ages. The Via Dolorosa is a spiritual journey—a physical meditation on the Passion of Christ—not an exact GPS map. Was the Present-Day Temple Mount Once the Antonia Fortress? 1. Some believe that the Antonia Fortress encompassed all the current Temple Mount and that the original Temple Mount was in the City of David. However, Scripture clearly states that at the dedication of the temple that Solomon built, in 2 Chronicles 5, that the Ark of the covenant was brought, “out of the City of David ” to the temple. “Then Solomon assembled to Jerusalem the elders of Israel and all the heads of the tribes, the leaders of the fathers’ households of the sons of Israel, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord out of the City of David , which is Zion” (2 Chron. 5:2). 2. If the Ark was brought out of the City of David to the temple, then the temple couldn't have been in the City of David. There is also overwhelming historical and archaeological evidence, and the writings of the famous Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, that contradict the belief that the Antonia Fortress encompassed all the Temple Mount. Evidence that the Antonia Fortress Did Not Encompass all the Temple Mount, and that the Temple Mount was not in the City of David. Some believe all of the current Temple Mount platform we see today was the Antonia Fortress, and that a Roman Legion was stationed there during the time of Jesus. They also believe the original Temple Mount Solomon built, and the later expansions of it, were in the City of David. What does the evidence say? 1. Contrary to what some say, the current Temple Mount we see today existed long before the Romans arrived. Its platform was first built by Solomon. Later, its foundations were repaired during the time of Zerubbabel when the second temple was built. We see evidence of this in the ancient stones around the Eastern Gate. They date back to the time of Solomon, Hezekiah, Zerubbabel, and Nehemiah. So, the platform we see today, existed long before the Romans arrived. 2. Later, in around 141 BC, the Hasmoneans built an extension to the southern end of the Temple Mount. This can be seen in the Eastern Wall, where the bend in the wall exists. Thus, there is a change in stone styles from earlier periods to the Hasmonean period. 3. Then, in around 19 BC, Herod the Great began to enlarge the Temple Mount Platform. He would double the size of what it was during the Hasmonean period. This can be seen in the Eastern Wall as well, where there is a seam in the wall. The stone styles change from Hasmonean to Herodian. Josephus confirms this: “Accordingly, in the fifteenth year of his reign [23-22 BC], Herod rebuilt the temple, and encompassed a piece of land about it with a wall, which land was twice as large as that before enclosed. The expenses he laid out upon it were vastly large also, and the riches about it were unspeakable” (Wars of the Jews, Bk 1, Ch. 21, Sect. 401). Therefore, the current Temple Mount existed long before the Romans arrived and was not expanded to be a Roman Fort. 4. There are also no historical records that a Roman Legion was stationed in Jerusalem before 66–67 AD. At this time, the Jews had revolted and recaptured Jerusalem from Roman control. The 10th Roman Legion was then moved to Jerusalem to conquer it. This was a fulfillment of Christ’s prophecy. The city was destroyed and conquered in 70 AD. 5. Facts about the 10th Roman Legion. It was founded in around 41 or 40 BC. It was also called the X Fretensis or Legio X. It was never stationed in Jerusalem until it arrived to overthrow the Jewish rebellion that had taken place wherein the Jews overtook the Roman Soldiers who were in Jerusalem and regained control. It was the 10th Roman Legion, led by Vespasian, that would win the battle to recapture Jerusalem from the Jews in 70 AD. From 67 onward, X Fretensis fought in the war against the Jews. It was commanded by Marcus Ulpius Trajanus, the father of the future emperor. The supreme commander of the Roman forces in Judaea was general Vespasian, who was to become emperor during the civil war that broke out after the suicide of Nero in 68 AD. After the conclusion of the Jewish revolt in around 73 AD, Legio X was garrisoned at Jerusalem. Their main camp was positioned on the Western Hill, located in the southern half of the old city, now leveled of all former buildings. The camp of the Tenth was built using the surviving portions of the walls of Herod the Great's palace, demolished by order of Titus. The camp was at the end of the cardo maximus of Aelia Capitolina (Pace, H. Geva, "The Camp of the Tenth Legion in Jerusalem: An Archaeological Reconsideration," IEJ 34, 1984, pp. 247-249). 6. Josephus clearly describes and clarifies that the Antonia Fortress was destroyed by the Romans when they conquered and tore down the temple in 70 AD: “Titus now ordered the troops that were with him to raze the foundations of Antonia and to prepare an easy ascent [into the Temple Mount] for the whole army” (Wars Ch. 6, Sect 93). “Meanwhile, the rest of the Roman army, having in seven days overthrown the foundations of Antonia, had prepared a broad ascent to the Temple” (Wars Ch. 6, Sect. 149). It is vital to understand that when Josephus wrote this, it was in 70 AD, more than 70 years after Herod enlarged the Temple Mount Platform. Also, the Tenth Roman Legion never was stationed in Jerusalem until after it was conquered in 70 AD. So, the idea that the current Temple Mount Platform was built for the Tenth Roman Legion is entirely false. 7. If the Antonia was destroyed in seven days, it reveals that it wasn’t that big. Also, it was destroyed, so there is no way the current Temple Mount could be the Antonia Fortress. Places of Interest 1. Ecce Homo Arch (behold the man) 2. Convent of the Sisters of Zion 3. Cistern hewed out of the rock. 4. Pavement stones with Roman carved games on them. 5. Pavement stones with carved grooves. 6. Temple Mount Antonia Fortress in the Bible 1. The Antonia Fortress is the believed place where the Via Dolorosa begins. Tradition places the Antonia Fortress as the beginning place of the Via Dolorosa. However, the site with the best evidence for being the beginning place of the Via Dolorosa is Pilate’s Palace, located just south of the Jaffa Gate. 2. Paul addressed an angry mob from the Antonia Fortress. Acts 21:27–40: When the seven days were almost over, the Jews from Asia, upon seeing him [Paul] in the temple, began to stir up all the crowd and laid hands on him, 28 crying out, “Men of Israel, come to our aid! This is the man who preaches to all men everywhere against our people and the Law and this place; and besides he has even brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.” 29 For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, and they supposed that Paul had brought him into the temple. 30 Then all the city was provoked, and the people rushed together, and taking hold of Paul they dragged him out of the temple, and immediately the doors were shut. 31 While they were seeking to kill him, a report came up to the commander of the Roman cohort that all Jerusalem was in confusion. 32 At once he took along some soldiers and centurions and ran down to them; and when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 33 Then the commander came up and took hold of him, and ordered him to be bound with two chains; and he began asking who he was and what he had done. 34 But among the crowd some were shouting one thing and some another, and when he could not find out the facts because of the uproar, he ordered him to be brought into the barracks . 35 When he got to the stairs , he was carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob; 36 for the multitude of the people kept following them, shouting, “Away with him!” 37 As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks , he said to the commander, “May I say something to you?” And he said, “Do you know Greek? 38 Then you are not the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a revolt and led the four thousand men of the Assassins out into the wilderness?” 39 But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” 40 When he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, motioned to the people with his hand; and when there was a great hush, he spoke to them in the Hebrew dialect. Faith Lesson from the Antonia Fortress 1. Paul suffered at the Antonia Fortress for his faith. Are we willing to boldly proclaim our faith and suffer as a result if necessary? 2. Paul shared his testimony often. Do we have our testimony memorized, and do we share it when talking to others about God?

Videos About Biblical Bethel In Israel. Only Jerusalem is mentioned more than Bethel in the Bible. Bethel (Beit El) is an amazing place. Bethel (also called Luz) is in the Samaria region about 10 miles (17 km.) north of Jerusalem. Bethel stood at several main crossroads in Israel. It was on the main north-south road that passed through the central hill country from Hebron in the south to Shechem in the north, and it was on the main east-west route leading from Jericho to the Mediterranean Sea. Bethel (Beit El) Overview Photo Gallery Places of Interest Bethel Introduction There were three locations at Bethel where significant events in the Bible occurred. 1. Lower place east of the town of Bethel. This is where Abraham built one of the first altars mentioned in the Bible, and there he “invoked the name of the Lord.” After Abraham fled to Egypt to escape a famine in the Holy Land, he returned to the same place near Bethel and invoked the name of the Lord once more. 2. High Place west of Bethel When Jacob was fleeing from his brother Esau, he stopped for the night at Bethel, where he had a dream. Bethel was a place where the Tabernacle resided for some time during the period of the Judges. After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Jeroboam, the king of the northern kingdom, set up golden calves in Bethel and Dan. 3. Town of Bethel. Jacob moved to Bethel to live after he returned to the Holy Land. God spoke to him and changed his name from Jacob to Israel. Location 1. Bethel (originally called Luz in the Bible) is in the hill country of the Samaria region, about 10 miles (17 km) north of Jerusalem. 2. Bethel stood at several main crossroads in Israel. It was on the main north-south road that ran through the central hill country from Hebron in the south to Shechem in the north, and on the main east-west route leading from Jericho to the Mediterranean Sea. 3. In addition to the main city of Bethel, which today is called Baytin or Beit El, there are two other key sites close to the main city of Bethel. The first is the original place where Abraham and Jacob pitched their tents and erected altars. This is located just outside Bethel, toward the east, a short distance away. The second is the high place of worship. It's about 1.5 miles (2.5 km) north of the main city of Bethel. It's one of the highest places in Israel, sitting at an elevation of 2,900 ft. (886 m.). For this reason, it was a place of worship for both God and false gods. It's believed the tabernacle resided here for some time during the period of the Judges and was the place where Jeroboam set up one of his Golden-Calf altars after the Kingdom of Israel divided. Today, this high place of worship has been recognized by the Israeli government and is called Khalom Ya'akov Antiquities Site. It's fenced and secured. Historical Background 1. Bethel is mentioned sixty times in the Bible, representing over thirty distinct stories and prophecies, all found in the Old Testament. Only Jerusalem is mentioned more times in the Bible than Bethel. 2. Bethel means “House of God.” 3. The site of Bethel, the nearby sites of Abraham and Jacob, and the high place are all holy to Christians, Jews, and Muslims. They have artifacts, buildings, tombs, and ruins pertaining to each religion. Places of Interest 1. The site where Abraham and Jacob pitched their tents and built altars. There are ruins at this site which provide strong evidence that this was the place Abraham and Jacob pitched their tents and built altars. Later, a Byzantine church was erected here, marking this spot. Jerome (347-420 AD), an early Christian leader, confirms this. He wrote the following about this site: "There is also a church built where Jacob slept as he passed to Mesopotamia." 2. The original city of Bethel. This site was once excavated, revealing walls, buildings, and the remains of ancient Bethel. It has since been abandoned and filled in by residents of the area. However, some remains can still be seen in various places. 3. The high place of worship. 1. Muslim Prayer Shrine 2. Crusader Chapel 3. A 1,000-year-old oak tree and other ancient trees (trees were never cut at holy sites). 4. Walls of a Byzantine Church 5. Walls & towers of protection – these would have been used during times of war between Judah and Israel after the nation divided. 6. Burial Tombs 7. Ruins of a foundation measuring the exact size of the tabernacle. 8. Jeroboam’s Golden-Calf Altar Bethel in the Bible 1. It was near Bethel that Abraham built one of the first altars mentioned in the Bible, and there he “invoked the name of the Lord.” Genesis 12:8: From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. And there he built an altar to the LORD and called upon the name of the LORD. 2. After Abraham fled to Egypt to escape a famine in the Holy Land, he returned to the same place near Bethel, and once again invoked the name of the Lord. Genesis 13:2–4: Now Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold. 3 And he journeyed on from the Negev as far as Bethel to the place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Bethel and Ai, 4 to the place where he had made an altar at the first. And there Abram called upon the name of the LORD. 3. When Jacob was fleeing from his brother Esau, he stopped for the night at Bethel, where he had a dream. Genesis 28:10–22: Jacob left Beersheba and went toward Haran. 11 And he came to a certain place and stayed there that night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place to sleep. 12 And he dreamed, and behold, there was a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven. And behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it! 13 And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, “I am the LORD, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring. 14 Your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south, and in you and your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed. 15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” 16 Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the LORD is in this place, and I did not know it.” 17 And he was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.” 18 So early in the morning Jacob took the stone that he had put under his head and set it up for a pillar and poured oil on the top of it. 19 He called the name of that place Bethel , but the name of the city was Luz at the first. 20 Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat and clothing to wear, 21 so that I come again to my father's house in peace, then the LORD shall be my God, 22 and this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be God's house. And of all that you give me I will give a full tenth to you.” 4. When Jacob was in Paddan-aram, God told him to return to the land of Israel. Genesis 31:13: I am the God of Bethel , where you anointed a pillar, where you made a vow to Me; now arise, leave this land, and return to the land of your birth. 5. After Jacob returned to the Holy Land, he moved to Bethel to live. God spoke to him and changed his name from Jacob to Israel. Genesis 35:1: Then God said to Jacob, “Arise, go up to Bethel and live there, and make an altar there to God, who appeared to you when you fled from your brother Esau.” Genesis 35:9-15: Then God appeared to Jacob again when he came from Paddan-aram, and He blessed him. 10 God said to him, "Your name is Jacob; You shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel shall be your name.” Thus, He called him Israel. 11 God also said to him, “I am God Almighty; be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall come from you, and kings shall come forth from you. 12 The land which I gave to Abraham and Isaac, I will give it to you, and I will give the land to your descendants after you.” 13 Then God went up from him in the place where He had spoken with him. 14 Jacob set up a pillar in the place where He had spoken with him, a pillar of stone, and he poured out a drink offering on it; he also poured oil on it. 15 So Jacob named the place where God had spoken with him, Bethel . 6. Bethel was a place where the Tabernacle resided for some time during the period of the Judges. Judges 20:26–27: Then all the people of Israel, the whole army, went up and came to Bethel and wept. They sat there before the LORD and fasted that day until evening, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD. 27 And the people of Israel inquired of the LORD (for the ark of the covenant of God was there in those days ). 7. After the Kingdom of Israel was divided, Jeroboam, the king of the northern kingdom, set up golden calves in Bethel and Dan. 1 Kings 12:26–29: And Jeroboam said in his heart, “Now the kingdom will turn back to the house of David. 27 If this people go up to offer sacrifices in the temple of the Lord at Jerusalem, then the heart of this people will turn again to their lord, to Rehoboam king of Judah, and they will kill me and return to Rehoboam king of Judah.” 28 So the king took counsel and made two calves of gold. And he said to the people, “You have gone up to Jerusalem long enough. Behold your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” 29 And he set one in Bethel , and the other he put in Dan. 8. God warned Jeroboam about erecting the golden calves at Bethel. Jeroboam’s arm withered and was then restored by a prophet to show Jeroboam that God was serious about his great sin. However, Jeroboam did not heed God’s warning (1 Kings 13:1–34). 9. The continual disobedience of Jeroboam and the succeeding kings sealed the fate of Bethel. By the time of Jesus’ birth, Bethel had faded into obscurity and was not mentioned in the New Testament. 10. Josiah, a righteous king, destroyed the Golden-Calf Altar that Jeroboam had erected at Bethel. 2 Kings 23:15: Moreover, the altar at Bethel , the high place erected by Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin, that altar with the high place he pulled down and burned, reducing it to dust. He also burned the Asherah. 11. Just before Elijah ascended to heaven, he and Elisha were in Bethel. 2 Kings 2:1–3: Now when the Lord was about to take Elijah up to heaven by a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. 2 And Elijah said to Elisha, “Please stay here, for the Lord has sent me as far as Bethel .” But Elisha said, “As the Lord lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you.” So they went down to Bethel. 3 And the sons of the prophets who were in Bethel came out to Elisha and said to him, “Do you know that today the Lord will take away your master from over you?” And he said, “Yes, I know it; keep quiet.” 12. After Assyria conquered and exiled the Northern Kingdom of Israel, the king of Assyria sent one of the captured Israelite priests back to Bethel to teach the people from other nations who lived in Israel how to worship Yahweh, the true and living God (2 Kings 17:24–41). Faith Lesson from Bethel 1. Bethel was a place of two different kinds of responses to God. It was a place where Abraham and Jacob had special encounters with God and worshiped Him, and where the Ark of the Covenant dwelt, representing the presence and glory of God. Unfortunately, it also represents a place of disobedience to God and the worship of false gods and idols. 2. We could learn a great lesson from this biblical site of Bethel. 3. Are we going to be like those who worshiped and obeyed God, or like those who disobeyed and worshiped their own desires and plans?

See and learn about the famous Madaba Map! Madaba, in Jordan, possesses the oldest map of the Holy Land and beyond. Located in St. George's Greek Orthodox Church, it's made of small tiles and is extremely accurate. Madaba: Madaba Map & St. George's Church Madaba: Madaba Map & St. George's Church Location 1. Madaba is about 25 miles (40 km.) east of Jericho and 20 miles (32 km.) southwest of Amman, Jordan. 2. It's located on the King's Highway, a famous road that linked Africa and Egypt with Asia and Europe. This was a major traffic and trade route during ancient times. 3. Modern roads today still follow the same route as it provides the best geographical way to navigate the natural terrain. Historical Background 1. Madaba can be traced back at least 4,500 years. The ancient settlement, now mostly buried ben eath the modern town, lies on a natural rise created by branches of the Wadi Madaba. 2. Madaba has a long history. It once belonged to the Moabites, Nabateans, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslum rule, and today, is home to the biggest Christian community in all of Jordan, proportionally speaking. Catholics and Greek Orthodox Christians make up around 10 percent of the total population of Madaba. 3. Accounts of Christians living in Madaba can be traced back to around 200 AD. Partial evidence for this can be found in the Acts of the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD. They appear to have erected sites of worship in the area. Later, during the Byzantine period, around 350 AD, they erected a church where St. George's Church is located today. 4. During the 5-8 centuries AD, many mosaics were built in Madaba, causing it to be called "the City of the Map, or Maps." The most elaborate and famous of these mosaic maps is located where the Church of St. George is today and is called the "Madaba Map." 5. The Byzantine church known today as St. George's Church stood on the very spot of this famous mosaic map but was destroyed by an earthquake in the 8th century. After this, it lay largely abandoned for many centuries. It stayed desolate until the 19th century when its remnants were discovered. 6. In the 1880s, tensions arose between Muslims and Christians in the city of Karak, Jordan, and the Christians were forced to leave and relocate to Madaba. These Christians wanted to build churches but only were allowed to do so on the condition that these churches were built on sites where churches had once stood before. 7. These Christians originally lived in caves as they had no homes yet. However, as they began building homes, they often did so over the foundations of ancient structures. In so doing, they came upon mosaic after mosaic. Many were incorporated as floors in the new houses being built by the settlers. The announcement in 1897 of the discovery of the famous "Madaba Map" of the Holy Land, dating to the Byzantine era, created a sensation. By the end of the century, the majority of the known mosaics of Madaba had been at least partially uncovered. In most cases, they were preserved and can be seen today. 8. At the heart of Madaba is St. George's Greek Orthodox Church. The church broke ground in 1884 when the Greek Orthodox community saved enough funds to start construction. But to the surprise of the builders, under it were the remains of a Byzantine Church dating back to the 3rd century AD. It was on the floor of this ancient Greek church that the earliest, most extant map of Israel and surrounding areas were found that today is called the "Madaba Map." It has 157 captions (in Greek) depicting all the major biblical sites of the Middle East. This mosaic map is dated to around 560 AD. It was originally around 66 ft. (20 m.) long and 20 ft. (6m) wide. It once contained more than two million pieces, but only one-third of the original mosaic has survived. Sites of Interest 1. St. George's Greek Orthodox Church Famous Madaba Map The Madaba Mosaic is located in the apse of St. George's Church. As you approach the map, you will discover that it is oriented to the east (most tourists assume northwards). Therefore, your east is the top of the map, and the north falls on your left-hand side. In the center of the map, there is a very detailed description of Jerusalem. At the center of the map is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which marks the place of Golgotha, where Christ was crucified, buried, and rose from the dead. On the right side of Jerusalem, you will find Bethlehem, and on the left, you will see Jacob’s well. In the upper-middle part, there is the Sea of Galilee with two boats. 2. Madaba Visitor Ce nter Madaba’s visitor center is worth a visit to learn more about Madaba’s history and its mosaics. It's located in a scenic, renovated traditional house and is right next to St. George's Church and the Archeological Park. 3. Madaba Archeological Park While the map of Madaba in Saint George’s Church gets most of the attention, some claim that the most beautiful mosaics are at Madaba’s Archeological Park. Here you can find some of the oldest mosaics in Jordan. The site has some Roman ruins as well as the remains from the church of the Virgin Mary. Some of the most beautiful mosaics are in the Hippolytus H all, where you can find another famous Madaba mosaic that tells the myth of Hippolytus. 4. Apostles' Church The largest mosaic floor can be found at the Apostles' Church. The church might look rather simple, but the inside is beautiful. The mosaic is dedicated to the twelve apostles and has lots of images, including animals and other interesting details. 5. Church of St. John the Baptist This Roman Catholic church is the only tourist place in Madaba where mosaics are not the main attraction. Although there is a small museum with some replicas, One of the biggest reasons to visit this church is to climb the bell tower. From the very top, it provides a spectacular view over Madaba. Madaba in the Bible Note: The Hebrew word for Madaba is Medeba 1. Madaba occurs in the Bible as part of a lament describing the conquest of a series of Moabite cities, including Madaba, by the Amorite King Sihon of Heshbon. Numbers 21:30 : But we have shot them down with arrows, Heshbon is destroyed as far as Dibon, then we have laid waste as far as Nophah, which reaches to Medeba ” [Madaba]. 2. Madaba was part of the inheritance of the 2 1/2 tribes of Isreal that settled on the east side of the Jordan River. Joshua 13:8-9: With the other half-tribe, the Reubenites and the Gadites received their inheritance which Moses gave them beyond the Jordan to the east, just as Moses the servant of the Lord gave to them; 9 from Aroer, which is on the edge of the Valley of the Arnon, with the city which is in the middle of the valley, and all the plain of Medeba [Madaba], as far as Dibon. Joshua 13:15-16: So Moses gave an inheritance to the tribe of the sons of Reuben according to their families. 16 Their territory was from Aroer, which is on the edge of the Valley of the Arnon, with the city which is in the middle of the valley and all the plain by Medeba [Madaba]. 3. When King David wanted to show kindness to the son of Nahash, king of Ammon, his servants were humiliated. Then, the son of Nahash went to war with King David but was defeated at Madaba. 1 Chronicles 19:7: So they hired for themselves thirty-two thousand chariots, and the king of Maacah and his people, who came and camped opposite Medeba. And the sons of Ammon gathered together from their cities and came to the battle. 4. It was conquered by Israelite King Omri, as found in Numbers 32 and 2 Kings 3:4-27. 5. The prophet Isaiah pronounced judgment over Madaba. Isaiah 15:2: The people have gone up to the temple and to Dibon, to the high places to weep. Moab wails over Nebo and Medeba [Madaba]; Everyone’s head is bald and every beard is cut off.

October 22-November 7, 2027, Registration Form. An in-depth 17-day Bible-centered Holy Land tour to Israel that allows you to see more holy sites in Israel. Holy Land Trip Registration Form October 22~November 7, 2 027 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

Learn all about the traditional route of the Via Dolorosa and the 14 Stations of the Cross in Jerusalem. Lions’ Gate, Temple Mount, Antonia Fortress, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Ecce Homo Arch, Original stone pavement section, Old City wall in the time of Christ, Golgotha. The Via Dolorosa Photo Gallery Places of Interest The Via Dolorosa Introduction 1. Via Dolorosa means “The Painful Path.” 2. The traditional Via Dolorosa route is the path some say Jesus walked as he went from His trial before Pilate at Antonia’s Fortress to His crucifixion at Golgotha. 3. The Via Dolorosa has 14 stations honoring the events that took place as Christ made His way to Golgotha to be crucified. 4. In the 4th century, Byzantine pilgrims believed the Via Dolorosa began at Herod's Palace, south of Jaffa Gate, and ended at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. 5. In the 8th century, the route changed. It began at the Garden of Gethsemane, headed south to Mount Zion, and then returned around the Temple Mount to the Holy Sepulchre. 6. During the Crusader Period (1095-1291 AD), the Crusaders believed the Via Dolorosa began at the Antonia Fortress and ended at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. 7. Up until the 16th century, there were only eight recognized stations of the cross. The stations were either historical or legendary places where pilgrims stopped along the way for spiritual contemplation and reflection. However, in the 16th century, the churches in Europe persuaded the church in Jerusalem to expand the number of stations to fourteen and to name this road the Via Dolorosa. 8. The present route was marked out by the Franciscans in 1342 after the Mamluk Sultan granted them authority over the Christian holy sites in Jerusalem. 9. Some believe the Via Dolorosa started at the Palace where Pilate was staying, located just south of Jaffa Gate. We'll discuss this further when we visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Herod's Palace. 10. Nine of the stations are biblical, and five are taken from traditional beliefs handed down over the centuries. Biblical Stations: We will read the Bible verses clarifying the events (the biblical stations are: 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14). Traditional Stations: The stations that have been handed down through tradition are listed below, along with the event believed to have occurred at each location (the traditional stations are: 3, 4, 6, 7, and 9). Stations 1–9 each have a large, rounded metal plaque with Roman numerals marking their locations. Stations 10—14 are located at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. 11. While we're not totally sure this is the actual route of the Via Dolorosa, we can still contemplate and experience this monumental event. 12. The suffering of Christ shows His love and His desire to have a relationship with us. 13. Along this route, we'll also see other significant sites. Location 1. The Via Dolorosa starts (Station 1) at the original place of the Antonia Fortress, which is currently by a Muslim Elementary School and the Chapel of the Flagellation. 2. Station 1 is located on Lions' Gate St., several hundred yards (m.) inside the Old City west of the Lion’s Gate. 3. The Via Dolorosa ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Places of Interest 1. Lions’ Gate 2. Temple Mount 3. Antonia Fortress 4. Church of the Holy Sepulchre 5. Ecce Homo Arch 6. Original Stone Pavement Section 7. Old City Wall in the Time of Christ The 14 Stations of the Via Dolorosa 1. Station 1: Jesus is condemned to death (biblical event). Location: Two places side by side mark station number one. On the north side of the Via Dolorosa Street is the Church of the Flagellation, and on the south is Umariya Muslim Elementary School, where the Antonia Fortress was located. Permission is needed to enter the school courtyard. Matthew 27:27: Then the governor's soldiers took Jesus into the governor's headquarters, gathering the whole battalion before him. Luke 23: 13–25: Pilate then called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, 14 and said to them, "You brought me this man as one who was misleading the people. And after examining him before you, behold, I did not find this man guilty of any of your charges against him. 15 Neither did Herod, for he sent him back to us. Look, nothing deserving death has been done by him. 16 I will, therefore, punish and release him." 18 But they all cried out together, "Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas"— 19 a man who had been thrown into prison for an insurrection started in the city and for murder. 20 Pilate addressed them once more, desiring to release Jesus, 21 but they kept shouting, "Crucify, crucify him!" 22 A third time he said to them, "Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no guilt deserving death. I will, therefore, punish and release him." 23 But they were urgent, demanding with loud cries that he should be crucified. And their voices prevailed. 24 So Pilate decided that their demand should be granted. 25 He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, for whom they asked, but he delivered Jesus over to their will. 2. Station 2: Jesus is given His cross (biblical event). Location: Church of Condemnation. This is just a short distance west of Station 1. John 19:16–17: So he delivered him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus, 17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. In the western part of this plaza, a map shows the route of the Via Dolorosa as marked by the Crusaders. Between Stations 2 and 3 is the Ecce Homo Arch (behold the man). This was actually an archway built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian around 135 AD, marking one of the main entrances into Jerusalem. Just after Station 2 is what is believed to be the Prison of the Apostles. Acts 5:17-21: But the high priest stood up, along with all his associates (that is, the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with jealousy. 18 They laid hands on the apostles and put them in a public prison . 19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the gates of the prison, and leading them out, he said, 20 “Go, stand and speak to the people in the temple area [q]the whole message of this Life.” 21 Upon hearing this, they entered into the temple area about daybreak and began to teach. 3. Station 3: Jesus falls the first time (traditional event). Location: Take a left (south) at the corner of Via Dolorosa St. and Al Wad St., and Station 3 is immediately on the left. In front of Station 3, there are ancient stones on the street dating to the time of Christ that were discovered beneath this area and placed here for all to see. 4. Station 4: Jesus meets His mother (traditional event). Location: A short distance southward from Station 3 on El-Wad St. 5. Station 5: Simon of Cyrene carries Christ’s cross (biblical event). Located at the corner of Via Dolorosa St. and El-Wad St. From this corner, the street takes a sharp turn to the right and then starts ascending uphill with a series of stairs along the way. Luke 23:26: And when they led Him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyren e, as he was coming in from the country , and placed on him the cross to carry behind Jesus. A short distance up from Station 5 is a stone embedded in the wall. It is believed that Jesus stumbled against this wall, and in losing His balance, he touched it, leaving behind bloodstains. Initially, this ancient rock was approximately 15 feet lower, below street level, at the time of Jesus. It was raised to its current level as the city level changed. 6. Station 6: Veronica wipes the face of Jesus (traditional event). Location: Just west of Station 5 on Al Wad Street along the western stretch of the Via Dolorosa. According to tradition, Veronica felt compassion when she saw Jesus carrying his cross to Golgotha and gave him her veil so that he could wipe the sweat from his forehead. Jesus supposedly wiped His face and then handed it back to her with the image of His face miraculously impressed upon her veil. Veronica means true image in Latin. A short distance before Station 7, part of the original city wall is visible. Golgotha was located outside the city during the time of Christ, and this wall marked the city's exit. 7. Station 7: Jesus falls the second time (traditional event). Location: At the corner of Al Wad Street and Khan es-Zeit St. Inside the Chapel of Station 7, a recent discovery was made. In 2017, the wall separating the two rooms of the Seventh Station was torn down, revealing a remarkable surprise behind it. Here, the public got its first look at what is believed to be the western wall of the city of Jerusalem, dating to the first century. 8. Station 8: Jesus meets the daughters of Jerusalem (biblical event). Location: From Station 7, take a step to the right and walk up Ma'alot E-Khanka St. a short distance. Beneath the metal disk on the wall is a carved stone set at eye level. It is marked by a cross with Greek letters forming an abbreviation of “Jesus Christ conquers.” Luke 23:27–31: And there followed him a great multitude of the people and of women who were mourning and lamenting for him. 28 But turning to them Jesus said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For behold, the days are coming when they will say, 'Blessed are the barren and the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!' 30 Then they will begin to say to the mountains, 'Fall on us,' and to the hills, 'Cover us.' 31 For if they do these things when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?” 9. Station 9: Jesus falls the third time (traditional event). Location: Walk back down to Station 7, take a right (south) on Beit HaBad St. Continue on Beit HaBad St. for about 75 yards (70 meters), and you will notice on the right a stairway leading to Station 9. Station 9 is the most difficult to locate. It’s located by the Coptic Patriarchate Building, through a narrow alley. Stations 10–14 are at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Location: From Station 9, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre can be accessed in two ways: (1) by a green door that leads to the courtyard of the Holy Sepulcher, or (2) by returning to Beit HaBad St. and continuing south, then taking a right on Shuk ha-Tsaba'im St. and following it to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. 10. Station 10: Jesus is stripped of His garments (biblical event). Location: In a room outside the church called "The Chapel of the Franks," on the right side of the church entrance. It can be seen behind glass panels by going up the stairs. It can also be seen before Station 11 by looking down through a glass window. John 19:23–24: When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic. But the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom, 24 so they said to one another, "Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be.” This was to fulfill the Scripture which says, "They divided my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.” So the soldiers did these things. 11. Station 11: Jesus arrives at Golgotha and is nailed to the cross (biblical event). Location: Just after entering the church, take a right and go up the stairs to the second level. A Franciscan altar marks Station 11. John 19:17–18: And he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. 12. Station 12: Jesus dies on the cross (biblical event). Location: Beside Station 11, a Greek Orthodox crucifixion altar marks Station 12. Matthew 27:45–54: 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. 54 When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, “Truly this was the Son of God!” Beside Station 12 is a large, cracked rock, believed to have been caused by the earthquake at Christ’s death. On the lower level of the church, this rock is also visible. 13. Station 13: Jesus' body is removed from the cross (biblical event). Location: Between stations 11 and 12 is a shrine of Mary, the mother of Jesus, with a spear piercing her heart. This marks the spot of Station 13 of the Via Dolorosa, where the body of Jesus was removed from the Cross. Station 13 is also affiliated with the Unction Stone, located just inside the church entrance. John 19:38–40: After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body. 39 Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. 40 So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. 14. Station 14: Jesus is laid in the tomb and covered in incense (biblical event). Location: In the church's large rotunda, an enclosed tomb marks Station 14. 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. For a more detailed look at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, please click this link: Church of the Holy Sepulchre In-depth Tour Faith Lesson from the Via Dolorosa 1. Roman crucifixions always took place in the most public areas possible. 2. Jesus was led through the busy streets for maximum humiliation. 3. Christ’s crucifixion happened on the day of Passover, so Jerusalem was at its busiest time of year, and there could have easily been around one million people present in the city at this time. 4. The blood lost during the floggings, the crown of thorns, and beatings was unbearable and life-threatening. 5. Christ was so weak that Simon of Cyrene had to carry His cross most of the way to Golgotha. 6. The total time elapsed from Christ’s suffering that began in the Garden of Gethsemane to His death on the cross was about 18 hours of sleepless, intense torment and pain. 7. The physical suffering was only a drop in the bucket compared to the spiritual suffering Christ endured to pay for our sins. 8. Do we really understand the price that was paid for the forgiveness of our sins, the privilege we have of being right with God, and the gift of eternal life in heaven? 9. Do we warn others of the reality of the judgments of God and the price of rejecting Christ’s gift of forgiveness and eternal life? 10. If we refuse to believe in the existence of a literal hell, then all Christ suffered has little meaning or purpose. This would be a horrendous slap in the face of Christ for all He did on the cross.

Learn about the 5 cities of the Philistines. Who were the Philistines, where did they come from, and where did they live? They are mentioned in many places in the Old Testament and were the enemies of the Israelites. They were involved in a huge miracle wherein God afflicted them with sores until they returned the Ark of the Covenant back to the Israelites at Beth Shemish. The Five Philistine Cities Photo Gallery Places of Interest The Philistines and Their Five City Strongholds Location The Philistine territory encompassed the southern coastal plain of Israel. They occupied five city-states that controlled a major travel route connecting Africa with Asia and Europe called the Via Maris . The cities of the Philistines were Ashkelon, Ashdod, Gaza, Ekron, and Gath. Historical Background 1. The Philistines were an ancient people who lived on the south coast of Canaan from around 2000 BC until 604 BC. From around 715 BC to 604 BC they were controlled by the Assyrian Empire and then destroyed by King Nebuchadnezzar II of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. 2. After becoming part of the Babylonian Empire and later part of the Persian Empire, they lost their distinct ethnic identity and disappeared from the historical and archaeological record by the late 5th century BC. 3. The Philistines are best known in the Bible for their biblical conflict with the Israelites. The Philistines are mentioned around 222 times in the Bible, beginning with Genesis, the first book of the Old Testament, and ending with Zechariah, the second to the last book of the Old Testament. 4. It appears that a sea people called the Peleset, from the Aegean Sea area, settled and mixed in with the Philistines in around 1155 BC. 5. The Philistines worshiped the false god, Dagon, a god of fertility. A couple of references to Dagon temples in the Philistinian cities of Gaza and Ashdod are mentioned in Judges 16:23, and 1 Samuel 5:2-5. The Five Philistine City Strongholds 1. Ashdod 1. Ashdod is located on the Mediterranean Sea and is the northernmost city of the five Philistine cities. 2. It's about 18 miles (29 km.) south of Jaffa and Tel Aviv. 3. Tel Ashod is just about 2.75 miles (4.5 km.) inland from the sea. It remains in its natural form and has had some excavations carried out but not extensive ones. 4. It appears that the city was large and extended all the way to the sea, or had another part of the city that was by the sea. 5. During the conquest of the Promised Land under Joshua and the Israelites, giants known as Anakim were found here (Josh. 11:22). Ashdod was allotted to Judah, but they failed to conquer it (Josh. 13:3, 15:46–47). 6. During the time of Samuel, Ashdod, and the other main cities of the Philistines were still independent. 7. Ashdod was conquered and came under the authority of Assyria in around 711 BC. Later, Babylon conquered it as well in around 605 BC. 8. In later times, the Ashdod-Yam Fortress (also called Qal’at el-Mina) was built by Caliph Abd al-Malik (685-705 C.E) at the end of the seventh century AD on the ruins of a Byzantine settlement. The fortress was part of a coastal defense system designed to prevent a Byzantine invasion from the sea. The system consisted of a string of strongholds along the Mediterranean Sea situated in sight of one another. In times of danger, massages were conveyed by means of beacons of fire (by night) and smoke signals (by day). In 1033, the fortress was destroyed by an earthquake and abandoned. It was reconstructed and resettled during the Crusader Period, (12th and 13th centuries AD). Its name was changed to Castellum Beroart. It was finally abandoned after the Crusaders were banished from the country in 1290. Ashdod in the Bible 1. The Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant and took it to Ashdod and placed it in the House of Dagon (their false god). 1 Samuel 5:1-2: Now the Philistines took the ark of God and brought it from Ebenezer to Ashdod . 2 Then the Philistines took the ark of God and brought it into the house of Dagon , and placed it beside Dagon. The Ark may have resided in the house of their false god, Dagon, which could have been by the sea. From Ashdod, the Ark was taken to Gath. 2. God prophesied that a people of mixed origins or nationalities would live in Ashdod and among the Philistines. This was certainly fulfilled in history and can even be seen today. Zechariah 9:6: And a people of mixed origins will live in Ashdod , and I will eliminate the pride of the Philistines . 3. Ashdod was the recipient of many prophecies proclaiming its doom and destruction. Isaiah 20:11, Amos 1:8, Jeremiah 25:20, and Zechariah 2:4, 9:6. However, Ashdod continued to be inhabited as the Jews intermarried with its inhabitants after their return from Babylon (Neh. 13:23–24). 4. In the New Testament, Ashdod is called Azotus. Acts 8:40: But Philip found himself at Azotus , and as he passed through he preached the gospel to all the towns until he came to Caesarea. 2. Ashkelon 1. Ashkelon is located just south of Ashdod, it also is on the Mediterranean Ocean and was one of the five cities of the Philistines. The origin of the name Ashkelon appears to come from the word “shekel,” denoting a measure of weight – a fitting name for a commercial port city. The specific name Ashkelon is mentioned in the Egyptian execration texts of the 19th century BC, and it appears again in other, later Egyptian inscriptions. 2. Ashkelon has the world's oldest Canaanite Gate in the world that dates back to almost 4000 years ago. Ashkelon in the Bible 1. Joshua and the Israelites conquered Ashkelon in the conquest of the Promised Land (Josh. 13:3), and it was allotted to Judah, who then occupied it (Judg. 1:18). 2. One of the golden tumors (emerods) that was returned with the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines was from Ashkelon. 1 Samuel 6:17: Now these are the gold tumors which the Philistines returned as a guilt offering to the Lord: one for Ashdod , one for Gaza , one for Ashkelon , one for Gath , and one for Ekron . 3. Askelon is mentioned by David when, after Saul and Jonathan die, David laments and mourns over them. 2 Samuel 1:19-20: Your beauty, Israel, is slaughtered on your high places! How the mighty have fallen! 20 Tell it not in Gath, proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon , or the daughters of the Philistines will rejoice, the daughters of the uncircumcised will celebrate. 4. Ashkelon was also denounced by Jeremiah (Jer. 25:20, 47:5–7), Zephaniah (2:4–7), and Zechariah (9:5). 3. Gaza 1. Gaza is located south of Ashkelon and Ashdod, it also is on the Mediterranean Ocean and was one of the cities of the Philistine Pentapolis. It is the southernmost city. Today, virtually no ruins remain from this city as it has been destroyed in later years due to what appears to be political reasons. 2. It was on a hill rising about 200 ft. (61 m.) above the valley floor. There were sand dunes between it and the sea, which was about 2 miles away. 3. Today, because ancient Gaza lies in the Gaza Strip, where land is scarce and Israeli interests are not valued, the remains of ancient Gaza are practically nonexistent. Gaza in the Bible 1. In the conquest of the Promised Land, Joshua and the Israelites failed to conquer Gaza, along with several other main cities of the Philistines (Josh. 10:41, 11:22). 2. Later, the tribe of Judah captured Gaza but couldn’t control it for long, and it fell back into the hands of the Philistines (Judg. 1:18). 3. Samson had many encounters with the Philistines. In one encounter, Samson carried heavy gates from Gaza all the way to the Hebron area, a distance of around 42 miles (72 km.). Judges 16:1: Now Samson went to Gaza and saw a prostitute there, and had relations with her. Judges 16:3: Now Samson lay asleep until midnight, and at midnight he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate and the two doorposts, and pulled them up along with the bars; then he put them on his shoulders, and carried them up to the top of the mountain which is opposite Hebron . 4. Samson met his death in Gaza. Judges 16:28-30: Then Samson called to the Lord and said, “Lord God, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time, O God, that I may at once take vengeance on the Philistines for my two eyes.” 29 Then Samson grasped the two middle pillars on which the house rested, and braced himself against them, the one with his right hand and the other with his left. 30 And Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” And he pushed outwards powerfully, so that the house fell on the governors and all the people who were in it. And the dead whom he killed at his death were more than those whom he killed during his lifetime. 5. After the Philistines defeated the Israelites in battle and captured the Ark of the Covenant during the priesthood of Eli and his two wicked sons, Gaza, along with the other main cities of the Philistines, sent a trespass offering to God when the ark was returned to the Israelites at Beth-Shemesh (1 Sam. 6:17–18). 6. When Hezekiah reigned, he defeated and pursued the Philistines to Gaza but did not seem to have captured the city. However, the Assyrians later captured it in 720 BC. 7. In the New Testament, Philip was sent to Gaza to evangelize the Ethiopian eunuch. Acts 8:26: But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Get ready and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza .” 4. Gath 1. Gath (Tell Es-Safi) is located east of Ashkelon about 17 miles (28 km.) The word Gath means “winepress.” 2. Gath was one of the five main cities of the Philistines (Josh. 13:3; 1 Sam. 6:17). 3. The site is a large, multi-period site that is made up of many layers. Each layer represents a different phase in the history of the site. 4. Tell Es-Safi has a long history of settlement. The site was first settled sometime around 5000 BC. It has been continually settled until modern times. The last settlement there was an Arab village that was abandoned during the Israeli War of Independence in 1948. 5. It was a well-fortified walled city (2 Chron. 26:6). 6. Joshua and the Israelites were unable to conquer Gath despite the numerous conflicts between the Israelites and the inhabitants of Gath. 7. It wasn’t until King David that the city was conquered and became part of the Israelite Kingdom (1 Chron. 18:1). 8. Its name is most remembered as the home of the giant, Goliath, whom David slew (1 Sam. 17:4). Gath in the Bible 1. It has archaeological remains that are unusual that reveal giants once lived here. This is affirmed by the Bible. 1 Chronicles 20:8: These were descended from the giants in Gath , and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants. It was also the hometown of the warrior Goliath, who appears in the Bible. 2. It was one of the Philistine cities where the Ark of the Covenant resided before being taken to Ekron. 1 Samuel 5:8: So they sent word and gathered all the governors of the Philistines to them, and said, “What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel?” And they said, “Have the ark of the God of Israel brought to Gath .” So they took the ark of the God of Israel away. 3. Goliath, the giant that young David slew was from Gath. 1 Samuel 17:4: Then a champion came forward from the army encampment of the Philistines, named Goliath, from Gath . His height was six cubits and a span. 4. When King Saul was seeking to kill David, David went to Gath to hide from Saul and acted like a crazy person because he feared the king of Gath. 1 Samuel 21:10-15: Then David set out and fled that day from Saul, and went to Achish king of Gath . 11 But the servants of Achish said to him, “Is this not David, the king of the land? Did they not sing of this one as they danced, saying, ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands’?” 12 David took these words to heart and greatly feared Achish king of Gath . 13 So he disguised his sanity while in their sight and acted insanely in their custody, and he scribbled on the doors of the gate, and drooled on his beard. 14 Then Achish said to his servants, “Look, you see the man is behaving like an insane person. Why do you bring him to me? 15 Do I lack insane people, that you have brought this one to behave like an insane person in my presence? Shall this one come into my house?” 5. Later, when King Saul was again pursuing David to kill him, David fled and lived in Gath for a while. 1 Samuel 27:2-3: So David set out and went over, he and the six hundred men who were with him, to Achish the son of Maoch, king of Gath . And David lived with Achish in Gath , he and his men, each with his own household—David with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the Carmelitess, Nabal’s widow. 5. Ekron 1. Ekron is located east of Ashdod and the Mediterranean Sea about 13 miles (20 km.) 2. In archeological terms, Tel Ekron (Tel Miqne-Ekron) is significant because it is one of the largest Iron Age sites in Israel. 3. More than 100 oil presses were found here, as well as the Ekron Inscription, which clearly identifies the site as Philistine, Ekron. 4. Just to the west of Tel Ekron is Kibbutz Revadim, where a Museum of the History of Philistine Culture shows a reconstructed Philistine street with many artifacts. Ekron in the Bible 1. Joshua and the Israelites failed to conquer Ekron in the conquest of the Promised Land as found in Joshua 13:3. 2. It was allotted to Judah in the division of the land and then to the tribe of Dan as found in Joshua chapters 15-19. 3. However, the tribe of Dan failed to conquer the area and moved to the northern part of Israel. Judah wound up conquering Ekron and inhabiting it as found in Judges 1:18. 4. Ekron was one of the Philistine cities where the Ark of the Covenant resided before being returned to the Israelites at Beth Shemesh. 1 Samuel 5:10: So they sent the ark of God to Ekron. And as the ark of God came to Ekron , the Ekronites cried out, saying, “They have brought the ark of the God of Israel to us, to kill us and our people!” 1 Samuel 6:13-16: Now the people of Beth-shemesh were gathering in their wheat harvest in the valley, and they raised their eyes and saw the ark, and rejoiced at seeing it. 14 And the cart came into the field of Joshua the Beth-shemite and stopped there where there was a large stone; and they split the wood of the cart and offered the cows as a burnt offering to the Lord. 15 And the Levites took down the ark of the Lord and the saddlebag that was with it, in which were the articles of gold, and put them on the large stone; and the men of Beth-shemesh offered burnt offerings and sacrificed sacrifices that day to the Lord. 16 When the five governors of the Philistines saw it, they returned to Ekron that day. 5. After David killed Goliath in the Valley of Elah, the Israelites pursued and defeated the Philistines all the way to Ekron. 1 Samuel 17:52: Then the men of Israel and Judah rose up and shouted, and they pursued the Philistines as far as the valley, and to the gates of Ekron . And the Philistine dead lay along the way to Shaaraim, even to Gath and Ekron . 6. Ekron is included, among other cities, in pronouncements of judgment by the prophets Amos 1:8, Jeremiah 25:20, Zephaniah 2:4, and Zechariah 9:5–7. The Philistines in the Bible 1. According to Genesis 10:6-14, the Philistines were descendants of Ham, one of Noah's sons. Genesis 10:13-14: Mizraim fathered Ludim, Anamim, Lehabim, Naphtuhim, 14 Pathrusim, Casluhim (from whom came the Philistines ), and Caphtorim. 2. At Beersheba, Abraham made a covenant with Abimelech, king of the Philistines. Genesis 21:32: So they made a covenant at Beersheba; and Abimelech and Phicol, the commander of his army, got up and returned to the land of the Philistines . Genesis 26:1: Now there was a famine in the land, besides the previous famine that had occurred in the days of Abraham. So Isaac went to Gerar, to Abimelech king of the Philistines . 3. Abraham lived in the territory of the Philistines which included much of the Negev (southern part of Israel). Genesis 21:34: And Abraham resided in the land of the Philistines for many days. 4. In the book of Judges, God used the Philistines to punish the Israelites because of their disobedience. Judges 10:7: And the anger of the Lord burned against Israel, and He sold them into the hands of the Philistines , and into the hands of the sons of Ammon. 5. King Saul fought against the Philistines all throughout his reign. 1 Samuel 14:52: Now the war against the Philistines was severe all the days of Saul; and when Saul saw any warrior or any valiant man, he attached him to his staff. 6. The well-known story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17 takes place in the Valley of Elah just east of Gath, which was the hometown of Goliath. 1 Samuel 17:1-3: Now the Philistines gathered their armies for battle; and they were gathered at Socoh which belongs to Judah, and they camped between Socoh and Azekah, in Ephes-dammim. Saul and the men of Israel were assembled and camped in the Valley of Elah, and they drew up in battle formation to confront the Philistines . The Philistines were standing on the mountain on one side, while Israel was standing on the mountain on the other side, with the valley between them. 7. When Saul pursued David, David fled and lived with the Philistines. 1 Samuel 27:1: Then David said to himself, “Now I will perish one day by the hand of Saul. There is nothing better for me than to safely escape into the land of the Philistines . Then Saul will despair of searching for me anymore in all the territory of Israel, and I will escape from his hand.” 8. The Philistines killed King Saul and his sons in battle. 1 Samuel 31:2: And the Philistines also overtook Saul and his sons, and the Philistines killed Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of Saul. 9. King David defeated the Philistines and subdued them. 2 Samuel 8:1: Now it happened afterward that David defeated the Philistines and subdued them ; and David took control of the chief city from the hand of the Philistines. 10. During King Saul's time, he ruled over the Philistines. 1 Kings 4:21: Now Solomon was ruling over all the kingdoms from the Euphrates River to the land of the Philistines and to the border of Egypt; they brought tribute and served Solomon all the days of his life. 11. God prophesied that the cities of Gaza Ashkelon, Ashdod, and Ekron would become desolate. This prophecy has certainly come to pass. Zephaniah 2:4: For Gaza will be abandoned, and Ashkelon will become a desolation; the inhabitants of Ashdod will be driven out at noon, and Ekron will be uprooted. Faith Lesson from the Philistines 1. God used the Philistines to punish the Israelites because they turned away from Him and followed false gods. In the same way, God often uses people in our lives to get us back on track with the Lord when we stray. 2. God revealed Himself as the Creator and true Lord to the Philistines on different occasions so they would know He was the true God. God reveals Himself to everyone through His creation so that everyone is without excuse. Romans 1:18-20: For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of people who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, being understood by what has been made, so that they are without excuse . 3. Any person from any nation was welcome to join in the Jewish faith and obtain salvation and be right with God. The Philistines had this opportunity like every other nation. 4. What about us? Are we right with God and letting our lights shine to a world that needs God and His salvation through Jesus Christ?

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 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 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 are arriving and departing. 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