Friends and families of Grace Episcopal Church, you are cordially invited to join Fr. Stuart next fall on an amazing spiritual journey of discovery and enlightenment, as we explore the roots of Christianity in ancient Greece.
When we think about how we are called to practice our faith, we recognize the many challenges and pressures we face. We may feel like we struggle to make meaning in our lives when so many voices around us compete for attention. In times like this, it can help to delve more deeply into the ancient roots of our faith, to learn how saints and mystics experienced God’s presence in their lives—and dared to write about their faith in Christ. On this trip, we will focus on the rich writings of St. Paul, and we will pay close attention to the religious and cultural influences that helped shape his message. We will pay attention to how the great philosophical virtues of truth, goodness, and beauty have helped shape his writings—and how our lives are shaped today. I look forward to traveling with you! Together in Christ, Fr. Stuart
Coastal view, Greece
An inspiring journey to the actual places where St. Paul lived and preached God’s word! Experience the joys of traveling the world together in Christian fellowship and discover a deeper connection to your faith in Jesus Christ.
This amazing man, moved by the Holy Spirit preached the “Good News” to Jews and Gentiles. Traveling along the major trade routes of the Roman Empire and visiting large thriving communities of Asia Minor and Greece his mission was accomplished; Christianity become the most widespread religion in the world. Travel with our Bible-oriented guides down timeless roads, take time to pray and rejoice in the ancient biblical sites, visit thousand-year-old churches and temples, and encounter a unique spiritual experience that will help you to better understand the miracle of Christianity.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1, October 13 Depart U.S.A. to Athens, Greece
Day 2, October 14 Arrive Athens (D)
Upon arrival in Athens, the group will be met by our local representative and transferred by private motor coach to the hotel. Along the way enjoy views of some of the major historic sites and landmarks of Athens. The group will check-in to the hotel have time to refresh before meeting for the welcome dinner. Dinner and overnight Athens
Day 3, October 15 Ancient Athens, Greek Cultural Music and Dance Performance (B, D)
Today our professional tour manager will lead your group through ancient Athens. We will start our visit with the Acropolis and the ruins of the Parthenon a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, a massive place of worship, an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy, and Western civilization.
Then we will ascend the steps to the historic site of Mars Hill (the Areopagus) where Apostle Paul spoke to the ancient Athenians about “the one and only God.” From here we have an excellent view of the Acropolis and the Agora of Athens. Afterwards, we will walk down the hill and stroll through the narrow streets of Anafiotika to Hadrian’s Library built 131AD, providing the people of Athens with a public library and cultural center, we will view the nearby Ancient Agora, the former center of the Athenian public life and primary location where democracy, business and social events were conducted.
While driving through the city we will be able to see other notable iconic landmarks included the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Greek Parliament (Old Royal Palace), National Library, the Panathenaic Stadium.
Later this afternoon stroll the picturesque Plaka District (or Monasteraki District) nestled among the slopes of the Acropolis. In the shadow of the ancient temples, stroll through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets admiring the neoclassical architecture that gives this “Neighborhood of the Gods” its extraordinary character. The lively squares are filled with open-air markets, a variety of boutiques, antique shops, souvenir shops, restaurants and cafés that are enjoyable to both visitors and locals.
Our group returns to the hotel to freshen-up before dinner and then a Greek cultural music and dance performance. Dinner and overnight Athens
Day 4, October 16 Corinth, Winery Visit, Coastal Villages (B, D)
Today we depart our hotel to visit Corinth where Apostle Paul stayed for one and a half years, established a thriving church, and wrote 2 of the epistles. Along the way, visit the beach of Kinetta, and a brief stop to learn more about the amazing Corinth Canal. From here, travel on to ancient Corinth.
Visit the museum, the Bema a place of public worship where “Paul dedicated every hour to preaching the message...” (Act 18:5), the Temple of Apollo, the Asklepion and the Agora, the Roman Odeon. And the port of Cenchreae where Paul sailed to reach Ephesus. These visits will enhance your understanding of Corinthians I and II.
Next, we visit a Nemea Winery. The mountains and valleys surrounding the small village of Neméa have been producing wine for centuries. This region is well-known for producing some of the most prestigious wines in the world, showcasing an array of immaculate wines. Your visit includes wine tastings and finger food with cheese and olives.
Afterwards enjoy a visit to the seaside city of Nafplio, a lovely village with its small narrow meandering paths, and one of the most romantic cities all over Greece. It was the first capital of the newly born Greek state between 1823 and 1834. Enjoy a view of Palamidi Castle built by the Venetians, on the 17th century, and previously used as a prison to Kolokotronis, one of the basic figures of the 1822 Greek revolution.
This evening, the group will overnight in the nearby seaside village of Vrachati. Enjoy a stroll along the shore- quite relaxing and picturesque! This location offers a distinctive perspective of Greece, allowing you to appreciate its beauty from the vantage point of the crystal-clear coastal waters. Dinner and overnight Vrachati
Day 5, October 17 Delphi, Kalambaka (B, D)
Today we continue our journey northward to Delphi, the ancient sanctuary of Apollo, to learn more about Greek religious heritage and its influence on the early Christian years. Delphi was regarded as the center of the world, the omphalos (navel), and the most important cultural and religion center of old times. You will visit the Delphi Archeological Museum, Temple of Apollo, Athenian Treasury, Theater and Stadium, the Castalian Fountain, and the Tholos of Athena Pronaia. We continue on to Kalambaka for dinner. Dinner and overnight Kalambaka
Day 6, October 18 Meteora, Veria, Thessaloniki (B, D)
After breakfast we will visit the spectacular Meteora Monasteries, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and official holy place for Greece sine 1995. A mountainous region of stunning scenery. Here you will view hundred-year-old Byzantine monasteries perched on the huge cliffs first built in the 14th century by monks seeking isolation and salvation. From the early Christian times, the cliffs of Meteora were regarded as a perfect place to achieve absolute isolation. A place for people to find peace and harmony and to support mankind’s eternal struggle for spiritual ascension.
Next, a visit to the ancient city of Berea, known today as Veria, the town evangelized by Paul, where he preached to the Jewish community and created an important Church. We will stop at the “Bema” monument commemorating his preaching.
Completing our day in Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, early center for Christianity, and location where Paul visited and preached the Gospel during his missionary journey of 49-50A.D. Dinner and overnight Thessaloniki
Day 7, October 19 Philippi, Kavala (B, D)
Today we depart for Philippi the town where Paul delivered his first sermon in Europe, sowing the seeds of Christianity. “And from there (He went) to Philippi, which is the leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman Colony...” (Acts 16:12-18). Visit the Baptistery of St. Lydia, location where Paul baptized the first Greek and European Christian woman named Lydia of Thyatira. Also visit the Roman Theatre, known to be the prison where Paul and Silas were held.
We will continue to the city of Kavala and the ancient city of Neapolis (Acts 16:11) where Paul landed with his disciples, Timothy and Silas. It was later renamed Christoupolis, meaning city of God, as the first European city to accept Christianity. Learn more about the Roman Aqueduct and the ruins of the Acropolis. Dinner and overnight Thessaloniki
Day 8, October 20 Thessaloniki, Vergina, Athens (B, D)
This morning our group explores, Thessaloniki, where St. Paul wrote two epistles (Acts 17:1-9; 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians). Our walking tour includes a visit to the Church of St. Sofia, the Church of Prophet Elias, and the Byzantine fortress of the city, the Byzantine Cathedral of Saint Demetrios- the protector of the city and the White Tower. Finally, to the triumphal Arch of Galerius starting at the Via Egnatia, once a strategic artery of the Roman Empire.
Afterwards, our journey continues to Vergina, a World Heritage Site, and location of the legendary burial site of the Macedonian kings, and location of the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great and conqueror of Greek territories.
Completing our day in Athens for our final overnight and farewell dinner. Dinner and overnight Athens
Day 9, October 21 Tour Ends (B)
Group transfer from Athen’s hotel to Athen’s airport for return flight to U.S.A.
LT reserves the right to alter itinerary or accomodations if necessary.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
All travelers must travel with a passport valid for at least 6-months beyond the return travel date.
Non US passport holders contact LT for credentials required to travel to the countries included in this tour.
2025 ETIAS Europe Visa may be required, updated information expected soon.
There are no requirements pertaining to COVID-19 at this time. Travel requirements change regularly, continue to verify requirements for travel up to the day of departure.
GREECE LAND TOUR INCLUDES
Private Group Tour with Custom-designed Tour Itinerary
Professional Tour Manager with expertise in Christian and Biblical history throughout the tour sharing the nuances of the unique environments and making history come to life. Their knowledge in Christian and cultural history will ensure you have an exceptional journey of enlightenment.
Life Enriching Activities- spiritual and cultural experiences daily as indicated in itinerary
Time to Reflect and Worship in sacred places
Private Deluxe Air-conditioned Private Motor Coach
Group Airport Transfers in Athens, Greece with the purchase of group flight arrangements
7-Nights Deluxe 4-Star Hotel Accommodations
Hotel Taxes
Private Guided Museum and Archeological Site Visits
Sightseeing and Entrance Fees as indicated in itinerary
Nemea Winery Visit and Wine Tastings with regional bites
Greek Cultural Music and Dance Performance
Breakfast and Dinner Daily - beverages not included with dinner and may be purchased on the spot
Gratuities for Group Meals
Europe Travel Guide to help travelrs prepare prior to departure for your international journey
TOUR PRICE Per Person based on Double or Triple Occupancy
$2,490 per person with minimum of 25 travelers
$2,590 per person with minimum of 20 travelers
$2,690 per person with minimum of 15 travelers
Single Occupancy add $890 to the above per person prices.
Tour price subject to currency fluctuation.
GROUP AIRFARE FROM Atlanta, GA based on a minimum of 10 travelers
Economy Group Airfare to be advised 11-months prior to travel dates.
PAYMENTS
Nonrefundable Deposit $350 per person and complete tour registration form to confirm.
Balance due no later than July 28, 2025. Final invoice will be provided prior to final payment due date based on the number of travelers.
Be aware of the LutherTours Booking Agreement Terms and Conditions of Travel including cancellation and change policy.
Up to 100% cancellation may apply.
TOUR LEVEL: MODERATE ACTIVE TRAVELER, WALKING SIGHTSEEING TOUR
This moderately active trip covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect to spend two to three hours on your feet during each guided tour where you will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. The pace is moderate. Most sightseeing is experienced during the daily guided walking tours and many of the historic and archeological sites you will visit date back hundreds to thousands of years. Walking may be on uneven surfaces, cobble-stones or pebbly stone pathways, and may not provide elevators and ramps for physically challenged travelers. If you or you will be traveling with someone who has difficulty walking, special needs -use a wheelchair, cane, walker, hearing or visually impaired please contact LutherTours.
NOT INCLUDED
Tour Gratuities approx. $70 per person paid to the professional European service providers directly.
Travel Insurance from $225 per person.
Passport fees. Non-US passport holders contact LT for additional credentials required for travel. Additional travel requirements due to new regulations or conditions, expenses associated with tests or other necessary requirements pertaining to COVID-19. Meals and beverages not listed in itinerary, personal items such as internet, Wi-Fi charges, phone calls. Any expenses not specifically listed under tour package included features.
Are You Prepared? There are many travel insurance companies available for your consideration. Consider a Travel Guard policy with Cancellation, Interruption and Medical Insurance- learn more about the benefits of purchasing a Travel Guard Travel Insurance plan. Consider the broadest form of travel insurance coverage available.
Travelers be aware of the LutherTours Booking Agreement Terms and Conditions of Travel including cancellation and change policy. Up to 100% cancellation may apply.
Prices subject to currency fluctuation. Itinerary, accomodations, and flight schedule subject to change. Please be aware of the LutherTours complete Booking Agreement Terms and Conditions of Travel and Cancellation policy; a copy is included with each tour confirmation, available by contacting our office directly, or online at www.LUTHERTOURS.com and click Terms & Conditions to view details. Penalties up to 100% apply. All travelers must travel with a passport valid for at least 6-months beyond your return travel date. Non-US passport holders contact LT for additional credentials required to travel. Additional credentials to travel due to Covid-19 may be required. Requirements change regularly, continue to check travel requirements up to the day of departure. Travel Insurance is highly recommended and available for purchase.
QUESTIONS? CALL 1.844.777.1517 or INFO@LUTHERTOURS.COM
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