In the Footsteps of Egeria: A Holy Land Pilgrimage to Places, Peoples and Peace

January 5-20, 2012 16 Days

Hosted by Prof. Thomas Schattauer Wartburg Seminary

geria was a pilgrim nun who journeyed to the Holy Land toward the end of the fourth century. She was irrepressibly curious, devoutly Christian, and a careful observer of places and peoples. We will travel in her footstepsand those of many pilgrims before and sinceas we visit the biblical sites, explore the story of Christian existence in this place, and encounter voices for peace among the people of Israel and Palestine today. DAy-by-DAy ITINERARy

Thomas Schattauer is Professor of Liturgics and Dean of the Chapel at Wartburg Theological Seminary, Dubuque, Iowa. As a liturgical scholar, he is fascinated with how the places connected to Jesus life became places of pilgrimage and prayer, monumental church building and public worship, which then influenced the shape of liturgy and piety for Christians throughout the world. He brings to this pilgrims tour an ongoing concern for the life of Christian communities in the Middle East.

MON, 16 JAN Jerusalem Meet with Rev. Mark Brown, Middle East Director of Lutheran World Federation, located on the grounds of LWR-funded Augusta Victoria Hospital. Tour the only hospital that serves Palestinian refugees. Stop at the top of the Mount of Olives for a glorious view of Jerusalem and walk down the Palm Sunday Road to the Garden of Gethsemane. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the Old City on your own. Gloria Hotel (B, D) TUE, 17 JAN Jerusalem This morning hear from a representative of The Ecumenical Accompaniment Program in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI). The EAPPI is an initiative of the World Council of Churches to accompany Palestinians and Israelis in their non-violent actions and efforts to end occupation. Afterwards, head to BTselem Center, which documents Israeli policy matters and is working to enhance human rights in Israel, for a meeting with Mr. Risa Zoll. Gloria Hotel (B, D) WED, 18 JAN Jerusalem Start the day with a meeting to learn about the work of the Israeli Committee Against House Demolition (ICAHD), which is dedicated to challenging the Israeli practice of tearing down Palestinian homes. View the recently constructed Separation Wall and learn about its impact on the Palestinian community. Visit Yad Vashem and the Childrens Museum, the moving memorial to the Holocaust. Gloria Hotel (B, D) THU, 19 JAN Jerusalem This morning begins with a visit to the Jerusalem Model followed by a tour of the Israel Museum, the largest cultural institution in Israel. Then meet with representatives of the Bereaved Parents Circle, a grassroots organization of Israeli and Palestinian parents who have lost loved ones in the conflict and which promotes reconciliation as an alternative to hatred and revenge. The afternoon is at your leisure to reflect on your experiences in the Holy Land. Gloria Hotel (B, D) FRI, 20 JAN Return to USA Transfer to the airport this morning and check in for your homebound flights. Arrive home this same day enriched with a new understanding of the ancient world, the Bible, and the Middle East today. (B, Meals in-flight) Code: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Itinerary subject to change. Speakers subject to availability

founder and head of the Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center. Lutheran Guesthouse THU, 05 JAN Depart USA (B, D) A meaningful journey of learning and discovery Bethlehem/Galilee begins today. Depart Chicago OHare on your WED, 11 JAN overnight flight to Tel Aviv via Lufthansa Airlines. Depart Bethlehem and drive to the Mediterranean coast and the site of Caesarea, once the Ro(Meals in-flight) man capital of Palestine. See the Crusader fortifiFRI, 06 JAN Arrive Tel Aviv/Bethlehem cations, the Roman amphitheater, aqueduct, and Connect in Frankfurt, and arrive this afternoon in the harbor from where the Apostle Paul was takTel Aviv where your Christian guide and driver are en to Rome. Continue on to Nazareth to visit the waiting to transfer the group to Bethlehem. Gath- Church of the Annunciation, the Greek Orthodox er for a welcome dinner this evening. Lutheran Church, and Marys Well. Continue to Sepphoris, which is believed to be the birthplace of Marys Guesthouse (Meals in-flight, D) mother, St. Anne, and which has ruins of Roman, SAT, 07 JAN Bethlehem Byzantine and Crusader interest. Overnight at Nof Enjoy a leisurely morning followed by a tour of the Ginosar Kibbutz (B, D) International Center of Bethlehem (ICB) at 11am Galilee and a noon meeting with Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb for THU, 12 JAN an introduction to the staff and their work as well This morning tour the grounds of Nof Ginosar and as learning about what it means to be a Palestin- see the first century Jesus Boat. Then embark on ian Christian at this time in history. This afternoon a boat ride on the peaceful waters of the Galilee. become acquainted with your surroundings dur- Visit the Ancient Synagogue and St. Peters House ing a walking tour of Bethlehems Old City includ- at Capernaum. Drive along the north shore to ing Manger Square and the Church of the Nativ- Tabgha to visit the Church of the Beatitudes, one ity, built over the cave-stable where tradition says of the most beautiful in the Galilee. Nof Ginosar Jesus was born. Enjoy some free time for personal Kibbutz (B, D) pursuits. Lutheran Guesthouse (B, D) FRI, 13 JAN Galilee/Jerusalem SUN, 08 JAN Bethlehem Drive to Caesarea Philippi for a visit. In the village Worship and enjoy fellowship with members of of Ibilin meet with Father Elias Chacour (subject Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem. The to his presence in Ibilin). Abuna Chacour is the afternoon is at your leisure for personal reflection Archbishop of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church and individual pursuits. This evening meet at the in the Galilee, an ambassador for non-violence, ICB with Dr. Rahman Abbad for a discussion of Is- and noted for promoting reconciliation between Arabs and Israelis. Travel south to visit St. Georges lam. Lutheran Guesthouse (B, D) Monastery. This sixth-century cliff-hanging comMON, 09 JAN Bethlehem plex, with its ancient chapel and gardens, is still Drive to Masada where, on this rocky plateau, the inhabited by a few Greek Orthodox monks. ConZealots held their last resistance against the Ro- tinue to Jerusalem and check into your accommoman conquerors. Continue on to the Dead Sea dations located in the Old City. Gloria Hotel (B, and take time for an optional float in this unique D) body of water and lunch on your own at Ein Bokek. Jerusalem Later visit Qumran to see the actual caves where SAT, 14 JAN Start the day with a meaningful journey along the the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. On your return to Bethlehem, drive by Mar Saba Monastery. Lu- Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which commemorates Jesus crucifixion. The tour theran Guesthouse (B, D) includes a stop at the Syriac Orthodox church - St. TUE, 10 JAN Bethlehem Marks, where tradition holds is the site of the UpStart the morning with a visit to Dar al-Kalima per Room. Meet with Jerome Murphy OConnor, Model School and Dar Al-Kalima Health and Well- OP, NT scholoar and Holy Land expert, at the cole ness Center. Both are outgrowths of the ICB, in- Biblique for his talk Jesus in Jerusalem. The retended to promote the healthy development mainder of the afternoon is at your leisure for reof the local community, Christians and Muslims flection, independent touring, and/or shopping. alike, to take their place in the Palestinian future. Gloria Hotel (B, D) Then have a conversation with Zoughbi Zoughbi, Jerusalem Director of the Wiam Center for Conflict Resolu- SUN, 15 JAN Worship this morning at Redeemer Lutheran tion. After the talk, visit Shepherds Fields in Beit Sahour and tour Deheishe Refugee Camp where Church in the Old City and gather for fellowship Palestinians have lived since being forced from with members of the congregation. Meet with their homes in 1949. Return to Bethlehem. End the English-language pastor of the Crusader Chathe day with a visit to Tantur Ecumenical Institute pel, Fred Strickert. This afternoons touring will foand a possible meeting with Rev. Dr. Naim Ateek, cus on the Jewish Quarter, Western Wall, Southern Steps, and City of David. Gloria Hotel (B, D)

ToUR CoNDITIoNS
PAYMENT SCHEDULE: Your reservation and deposit of $395 per person are requested immediately to fulfill the group deadline requirements. Note that space is limited and reservations are taken on a first come, first served basis. A second payment of $1000 is due September 2, 2011. Final payment by check is due November 1, 2011. REFUND POLICY: All cancellations must be in writing. There is no refund for partial or unused land arrangements. Note: Airline tickets will be issued well in advance of departure and may be nonrefundable. The following penalties will apply: Up to September 1, 2011 - $100 per person administrative fee plus any unrecoverable deposits; September 1, 2011 December 28, 2011 Deposit plus any unrecoverable payments to hotels, tour operators or airlines; December 29, 2011 or after No refund. CHANGES TO GROUP FLIGHTS: The group airfare contract for this tour may not allow travelers to make any date or itinerary changes. If you are considering other dates or cities, please submit your request in writing well in advance to secure the best rates and schedule, but no later than September 2, 2011. A minimum fee of $175 per person will apply for changes to group flights in addition to a possible airfare increase. LATE BOOKINGS: Passengers registering within thirty days of tour departure will be charged a $50 per person fee. Tour payment in full is required before we can request and confirm space. This fee does not cover any additional airline or ground service charges.

WHATS INCLUDED?
5 AIRFARE: Round-trip economy class from Chicago/OHare via Lufthansa Airlines or other ARC/IATA approved scheduled carrier. 5 ACCOMMODATION: Fourteen nights in Christian guesthouses and superior tourist class hotels, double occupancy, with private facilities. Hotels as listed or similar. 5 MEALS: Breakfast and dinner daily as outlined in the itinerary. 5 GROUND TRANSPORT: Transfers and transportation by deluxe motorcoach. 5 SIGHTSEEING: Extensive sightseeing throughout; entrance fees included. 5 PORTERAGE: Luggage handling of one piece per person. 5 EXPERT GUIDES: An experienced Englishspeaking tour guide from arrival in Tel Aviv through departure. 5 GRATUITIES: Gratuities to drivers and guides (for your convenience, $180 per person has been included). 5 TAXES: Airport/foreign departure taxes (currently $583 per person). 5 ALL THE INFO YOU NEED: Comprehensive documentation including handy high visibility bag tags, name tags, flight and land itineraries, destination er literature, customs ISTING PRE-EX ions and othd it information, cond s are covere at the al medic mstance urchased it. travel tips and circu urance is p n / depos ore more. m atio ins when e of reserv Insured for tim ct Travel 174 3-3 Conta fo. 800-24 in

CoST SUMMARy
$
Group Flights From Chicago OHare

4195

Tour Gratuities ($180)...............................................Included Airport/Departure Taxes ($583)............................Included

*Costs per person based on double occupancy in USD

Optional Individual Supplement

Single Room....................................................................... $620

In addition to base tour cost.

Costs: The tour cost is per person based on current airfare from Chicago/OHare (other cities available), double occupancy, tariffs and currency valuations as of March 2011, a minimum of 15 travelers, and subject to confirmation. While we will do everything possible to maintain the listed price and/or itinerary, they are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. Single room supplements may have limited availability and are on a request basis only. Items Not Included Fuel surcharges and/or tax increases levied since the pricing of this tour. Beverages other than coffee/tea at breakfast. Any meal or sightseeing item not listed in the itinerary. Items of a personal nature. Optional insurance for health, baggage, and trip cancellation/interruption is not included and highly recommended. Please refer to the Travel Insurance section. Passport fees. A passport valid six months beyond date of reentry to the U.S. is required. No visa is required for U.S. citizens; non-U.S. citizens may require a visa.

RESERVATIoN AppLICATIoN oR CLIp AND MAIL

Wartburg Seminary: Holy Land January 5-20, 2012 (G#120102) 333 Wartburg Place, Dubuque, IA 52004
(Name as it appears on passport)

1. ______________________________________________________________________________
First Name MIddle Name Last Name

Male

Female Date of Birth _________________ Month/Day/Year Female Date of Birth_________________ Month/Day/Year

2.

________________________________________________________________
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Male

Address (no P.O. boxes) _________________________________________________________ Tel. (Day) ____________________ (Eve.)__________________ City_________________________________State__________ Zip Code_________________ Email_________________________________________ Roommate____________________________ FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS
(please check one)

I will pay the supplement for a single room. DEPOSIT/TRAVEL INSURANCE (please check one)
Please reserve________space(s) for me/us; we choose the following deposit option: $____________ $605 per person inclusive of travel insurance . $__________ $395 per person without travel insurance. I/We decline now, but understand it can be purchased later. without the pre- existing waiver.

Advise if we can assign you a roommate or single supplement. GTD can assist in finding roommates; however, this cannot be guaranteed and the supplement may apply.

I/We will take the group flights from Chicago/OHare. I/We will need assistance with flight arrangements from__________________airport to join the group. I/We will make all of my own flight arrangements.
Please contact GTD for land- only rates.

Please make checks payable to Wartburg Theological Seminary

I/We have read and understand the conditions of this brochure. Parent or guardian signature is required for travelers under age 18.

Signature_______________________________________________________________________ Date__________________ Signature_______________________________________________________________________ Date__________________

120102/110 CJ/JT

GTD TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is included as an option with the initial tour deposit and is highly recommended. GTD offers a competitive policy from an independent company. By purchasing insurance at the time the tour deposit is made, you can be covered for events that may cause you to cancel or interrupt your trip, i.e., pre-existing medical conditions (certain restrictions apply). If you decline travel insurance at the time of reservation, you may purchase it within 14 days with the preexisting conditions waiver or you may purchase it later without the pre-existing conditions waiver. You may contact Travel Insured International for further information before making your decision: 800-243-3174. ____GTD TRAVEL INSURANCE INCLUSIONS Trip Cancellation.......................up to Tour Cost* Trip Interruption......up to 150% of Tour Cost** Travel Delay.....................................................$750 Missed Connection.......................................$300 Baggage.........................................................$1,000 Baggage Delay................................................$200 Medical Expense.......................................$50,000 Evacuation/Repatriation......................$500,000 Accidental Death......................................$10,000 Political Emergency Evacuation........$100,000 ID Theft Resolution Services................included Assistance Service...................................included * a maximum of $4500 per person ** a maximum of $6750 per person Cost of this optional GTD Travel Insurance is $210 per person. Additional coverage provided as needed; the full cost of your tour must be covered.

CoNDITIoNS AND RESpoNSIbILITy

Group Travel Directors (GTD) provides customized travel planning throughout the world for group travelers who have a variety of reasons and goals for travel. The goals and/or opinions of these groups do not reflect or imply the position of GTD in any matter. Brochure contents may not be duplicated without permission from GTD. In offering these travel arrangements, Group Travel Directors, Inc. (GTD) acts solely as an agent for the sale of air transportation and other travel related services. GTD maintains no control over the personnel, equipment or operations of any entity furnishing services, products or accommodations. GTD assumes no responsibility or liability for, and shall not be expected, asked or required to pay for any injury, damage, expense, personal injury, property damage, inconvenience or any other loss experienced by reason of: (1) any intentional, wrongful, negligent or unauthorized act or omission on the part of any supplier, its agents or employees; (2) any defect, breakdown or other failure of any vehicle, equipment, service, product or other instrumentality which is owned, operated or otherwise used by a supplier; (3) any intentional, wrongful, negligent, or unauthorized act or omission on the part of any other party not under the direct control of GTD; (4) financial problems causing nonperformance by any supplier; or (5) any other cause, condition or event whatsoever beyond the direct control of GTD. GTD cannot guarantee any rates, bookings or reservations of any supplier. Your retention of tickets, reservations or bookings after issuance shall constitute a consent to the foregoing provisions. All prices quoted are subject to change if airlines or ground operators increase their prices, the U.S. dollar is devalued significantly against foreign currencies, the group falls below minimum numbers, or a fuel surcharge, government tax or users fee is imposed. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. GTD reserves the right to withdraw from any tour any tour member whose conduct is incompatible with the interests of the group as a whole. The above Conditions and Responsibility also covers the group leader(s) and their respective organizations.

NoTE To oUR TRAVELERS:

Please be assured that GTD continually monitors industry events, such as airline strikes and bankruptcies, etc. If any such events affect your tour, you will be notified. At the time this tour was developed there was a U.S. State Department Travel Warning in effect for this destination; please refer to the following website for current information or call Group Travel Directors. http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764. html

For more information, contact: Prof. Thomas Schattauer Wartburg Theological Seminary 333 Wartburg Place, PO Box 5004 Dubuque, IA 52004-5004 Tel: 563-580-8786 Fax: 563-589-0333 Email: tschattauer@wartburgseminary.edu or Group Travel Directors 2000 West 98th Street Minneapolis, MN 55431-2593 tel: 952-881-7811 or 800-747-2255 fax: 952-881-6276 email: groups@gtd.org www.gtd.org