IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE APOSTLES

We arrive in Istanbul early and travel to Ancient Iznik (Nicaea), where in 325 AD the early Church met to confirm the divinity of Christ and write the Nicene Creed—a cornerstone of our faith. Standing at the ancient walls and council site, we reflect on God’s faithfulness in protecting His truth through courageous leaders.

Next, we visit Bursa to explore the historic Silk Market, where centuries of culture and craftsmanship continue to flourish. Walking through this vibrant place, we remember how God guided and strengthened early believers. We conclude our first day with dinner and a restful night at the hotel.

Today we trace the Seven Churches of Revelation. In Thyatira, early Christians were called to stay faithful and pure even under pressure. Walking this ancient site, we reflect on our own call to hold firmly to Christ.

Then we visit Pergamum, a dramatic hilltop acropolis and UNESCO World Heritage site, once home to the altar known as “Satan’s throne” (now in Berlin). Among its ruins, we honor the courage of believers who stood strong in a city of power and idolatry. As the sun sets, we check in to our hotel for dinner and overnight, closing the day in reflection and gratitude.

In Izmir, we visit Ancient Smyrna, praised for its endurance amid suffering. Walking the ancient agora, we reflect on early believers who held hope in Christ despite hardships.

We then go to Alaçatı, a peaceful Aegean town with stone houses, narrow streets, windmills, and small cafés. Its calm streets and nearby Ilıca Beach give us a moment of rest and refreshment. Later, we travel to Selçuk and check in to a seaside hotel surrounded by olive groves. We close the day immersed in peace, with dinner and overnight at the hotel.

We explore Ancient Ephesus, once a thriving center of early Christianity and home to the Apostle John. Walking its streets, theaters, and homes, we sense the strong faith of early believers. Visiting the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, reminds us of the contrast between pagan grandeur and the rise of the Church.

At the Basilica of St. John, believed to hold John’s tomb, we pause for quiet reflection. Then we go to Miletus, where Paul gave his farewell to the Ephesian elders, urging them to remain faithful shepherds. As our day draws to a close, we return to the hotel to enjoy dinner and a restful night, reflecting on the faith we’ve witnessed.

We begin at Sardis, reflecting on Christ’s warning to a church with a “reputation of being alive” but spiritually drifting. Next, Philadelphia, the “faithful church,” reminds us of God’s promise to open doors no one can close. At Laodicea, lukewarm faith teaches us to be fully devoted to Christ.

Our day ends at Hierapolis and Pamukkale, a UNESCO site with white travertine terraces (“Cotton Castle”) and ancient thermal baths. Surrounded by its beauty, we experience God’s renewing grace. We conclude this inspiring day with dinner and overnight at a thermal resort, letting the tranquil surroundings deepen our reflection.

We travel toward the coast, stopping at Ancient Perge, where Paul and Barnabas preached. Walking the theater, agora, and streets, we imagine the bold faith of early believers.

We continue to Antalya, exploring Kaleici’s narrow streets, Ottoman houses, and historic gates. We end the day with dinner and overnight at the hotel, allowing time to rest and ponder the day’s spiritual journey.

We visit Pisidia Antioch, where Paul preached and early believers gathered. Here, we reflect on the courage to share Christ faithfully. Along the way, we stop at Sultanhani Caravanserai, a Seljuk fortress that provided shelter for travelers—a reminder of God’s protection.

We arrive in Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and deep Christian heritage. As the day comes to a close, we settle into our hotel for dinner and overnight, resting before more discoveries tomorrow.

Optional Tour: Sunrise hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views.

After breakfast, we explore Göreme Open-Air Museum with its rock-hewn churches, visit a jewelry center and carpet workshop, Cavusin Village, a pottery workshop in Avanos, and an Underground City—witnesses to faith and perseverance. Scenic stops at Pigeon Valley, Devrent Valley, and Uchisar Castle conclude our day. We return to our hotel to end the day with dinner and overnight, reflecting on the marvels and history we’ve encountered.

We drive toward Ankara, stopping at Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü) to admire God’s beauty in creation. In Ankara, we visit Anıtkabir, Atatürk’s mausoleum, reflecting on God’s work through history and leaders.

We then continue to Bolu, checking in at a hotel near Lake Abant. A peaceful evening by the lake sets the tone for reflection. We close the day with dinner and overnight at the hotel, enjoying the calm of nature around us.