Itinerary
The trip is thoughtfully designed to balance historical exploration with opportunities for spiritual reflection. Each day will include guided tours of significant sites, such as Ephesus’s Great Theatre, the Church of Mary, the Library of Celsus, Smyrna’s Ancient Agora, Velvet Castle, the Church of St. Polycarp, Pergamum’s Red Basilica, the Church and Temple of Artemis in Sardis, Laodicea’s hot springs at Pamukkale, and the Trade Guilds at Thyatira, which is Lydia's birthplace. In Patmos, we will enjoy breathtaking views from Chora and explore monastic life at St. John’s Monastery while discovering its museum treasures. The trip offers opportunities for fellowship among ourselves as we trace the footsteps of early Christians who maintained their faith amidst trials and triumphs. This pilgrimage promises to be a deeply meaningful experience for all who join.
5 NOV Day 1: depart usa
Today you begin your Journey towards Turkey! Sit back and relax for your flight from New York to Izmir,.
6 nov Day 2: Arrival Izmir and Driver to Kusadasi
Your journey begins in Izmir, ancient Smyrna, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Upon arrival at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kusadasi. Enjoy an evening of leisure ( depending your flight arrival time) , preparing for the spiritually enriching journey ahead. Reflect on Revelation 2:8-11, where the Lord commends the Church of Smyrna for their faithfulness in suffering: “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”
Overnight: Kusadasi
7nov Day 3: ancient ephessus
Journey to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities. Begin with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, then explore the ancient ruins, including the Great Theater, where Paul once preached to the Ephesians. The message to the church in Ephesus is found in Revelation 2:1-7, where they are commended for their perseverance but warned to return to their first love: “Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.” The day concludes with a visit to the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis.
Overnight: Kusadasi
8 nov Day 4: full day excursion to patmos
Today you will enjoy a full-day excursion from Kusadasi to Patmos, the revered “Jerusalem of the Aegean,” known for the Grotto where St. John received his divine revelations. Departing early in the morning, sail across the tranquil Aegean waters while your guide sets the tone with reflections on St. John’s life and ministry. After arriving in the port of Skala, meet your local Christian guide and travel into the hills to the Grotto of the Apocalypse. Here, step inside the sacred cave where the Book of Revelation was inspired, pause for prayerful reflection, and witness the fissure in the rock believed to be where God’s voice resounded. You will also visit the 11th-century Monastery of St. John and admire its ancient chapels, icons, and panoramic views of the azure sea before descending to Skala. Enjoy time to explore the harbor’s shops and take in the peaceful island ambiance before boarding the afternoon ferry.
Overnight: Kusadasi
9 nov Day 5: Laodicea & Colossae
This day begins with a visit to Laodicea, the church that is warned against being lukewarm in Revelation 3:14-22: “So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” Explore the archaeological site, including the Christian basilica, before continuing to Colossae, linked to Paul’s letter to the Colossians.
Overnight: Pamukkale
10 nov Day 6: Philadelphia & Pamukkale (Hierapolis)
Depart for Philadelphia (modern AlaÅŸehir), where you will visit the remains of St. John's Church. Revelation 3:7-13 speaks of Philadelphia as the church that remained faithful: “I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.” In the afternoon, travel to Pamukkale and visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, known for its Christian heritage and healing waters.
Overnight: Pamukkale
11 nov Day 7: Thyatira & Sardis
Today’s journey takes you to Thyatira (modern Akhisar), where you will visit the ruins of the ancient city, including remnants of the early Christian church. Revelation 2:18-29 addresses the church in Thyatira, encouraging them to hold on to their faith despite false teachings. Later, travel to Sardis, where you will explore the impressive Temple of Artemis, the ancient synagogue, and the remains of the Christian basilica. The church in Sardis is mentioned in Revelation 3:1-6, where they are urged to wake up and strengthen what remains: “I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.”
Overnight: Izmir
12 nov Day 8: Smyrna & Pergamum
Start the day exploring Izmir (ancient Smyrna), visiting the Roman Agora and the Church of St. Polycarp. Smyrna’s message in Revelation encourages perseverance in the face of persecution. In the afternoon, travel to Pergamum (modern Bergama), where you will explore the Acropolis, the famous Altar of Zeus, and the Asclepion. Pergamum is mentioned in Revelation 2:12-17, where the church is praised for holding fast to the name of Christ, even in difficult circumstances: “I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name.”
Overnight: Izmir
