Christian Origins and Mission
in Turkey
A pilgrimage for clergy and
laity in Turkey
with The Rev. Peter J. Miano and the faculty of
The Society for Biblical Studies
24 April to 4 May 2009
$2,892 from New York City
"bring a friend" scholarships available
4 day elective:
Exploration on the Aegean Coast of Turkey
& the Island of Cos $655
returning on 7 May 2009
3 day elective:
Journeys of Paul in Greece $925
returning on 8 May 2009
While enjoying the romance and beauty
of the Aegean Sea, the mystique of Troy and the splendor of Istanbul, this
journey will acquaint participants with the geographical and cultural settings
of the New Testament and the early church communities in ancient Anatolia.
It will explore the traditions of Mary, Paul and John in Turkey. It will explore
points of contact between Christianity and Islam, especially focusing on the
traditions of Sufi mysticism. Person to person learning experiences with missionaries
and indigenous people will supplement field trips. The pilgrimage will include
morning and evening fora on historical and contemporary themes, visits with
church workers and mission sites. The program will also give you plenty of
free time and opportunities to explore Turkish culture on your own.
Registration Form
(Click the link to open, print a copy, fill in the blanks,
sign it and mail it to S.B.S.)
Day 1 Your journey begins with your international flight from Boston (other departure cities available, prices vary).
Day 2 After arriving in Izmir, Turkey, you will transfer to your hotel in Kusadasi for your first overnight. Orientation and introductions will take place upon arrival.
Day 3 This day explores the role of the Divine Feminie in the Hellenistic Age. Our field trip takes us to Aphrodisias, a center for sculpture and a ancient cult center for the worship of goddesses Cybele and Magna Mater, and Aphrodite. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Day 4 Our itinerary takes us to the site of Ancient Ephesus for an exploration of the extensive site and its role as the First City in the Roman Province of Asia. We will explore the rich traditions of Mary, John and Paul at Ephesus.Overnight in Ayvalik.
Day 5 We depart our hotel and return to Selcuk (Ephesus) where we visit the Pollio Aqueduct, The Crisler LIbrary for a meeting with Founder and Director, Janet Crisler, The Basilica of St. John, and the impressive Selcuk Museum. From Selcuk, we begin our journey north and enjoy and overnight on the Aegean seaside at Ayvalik.
Day 6 Today's itinerary takes us to ancient Pergumum (Bergama), site of one of the seven churches of the Book fo Revelation. Our themes are the Book of Revelation and healing in the ancient world. Vists include the acropolis and the Asclepion, the cult center for the healing god Asclepius. Overnight in Ayvalik.
Day 7 We embark from our hotel for a journey across the Anatolian highlands to the ancient site of Troy. Here we explore the ancient ruins while reflecting on the writings of Homer and the modern fascination with the discovery of the site. We resume our journey, crossing the Dardenelles and continuing along the coastal road to Istanbul, where we check into our hotel in Taksim Square.
Day 8 Today, we enjoy a full day of exploring Istanbul's most impressive monuments, including the Hippodrome, The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Dinner is on your own at one of the many wonderful restaurants within an easy walk from your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 9 In the morning, we visit the Church of St. Savior in Chora. The afternoon is free for you to explore on your own, take a cruise of the Bosphorus or shop in the Grand and Egyptian (spice) Bazaars. Dinner is on your own. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 10 We depart the hotel for a full day excursion to Iznk, ancient Nicea, the site of the Frst and Seventh Ecumenical Councils. Dinner is on your own. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 11 Those on the 11 day program transfer to the airport and return flight to USA. Or, you may continue your journey with one of the following electives...
