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2016: Year of Jubilee in Rome 2016 EDITION Theme Park Celebrations That Will Rock Your Youth Group

Insider Tips for Creating Successful Church Trips

Faith Destinations ■ Israel ■ Switzerland ■ Germany

Cruising with a Purpose A Premier Travel Media publication Adventures at sea, good deeds on land www.ReligiousTravelPlanningGuide.com LGT_R2_Layout 1 1/19/16 11:28 PM Page 2 LGT_R3_Layout 1 1/19/16 11:35 PM Page 3 LGT_R4_Layout 1 1/20/16 10:45 AM Page 4

18 Globus family of brands Globus Many Jubilee Year tours of Italy include the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi.

VOL. 6 • 2016 EDITION FEATURES contents 8 Fathom Cruises With a Purpose SPECIAL SECTIONS New adventures in the Caribbean provide opportunities to help communities in need. 13 Switzerland Inspires Faith Travel Groups Highlights of Zurich, Lucerne, Geneva and Basel. 10 Retreat Planning 101 BY RACHEL GILMORE Tips from an expert smooth the way in putting 22 Germany Celebrates a Religious Milestone together a spiritual experience for your group. Special events will mark the Protestant Reformation’s half millennium in 2017. 18 A Special Year in Rome BY DANIEL MORRILL Catholic groups will be flocking to the Eternal City 29 Israel: A Journey to the Holy Land in 2016 to observe the Year of Jubilee. In the Footsteps of Jesus The Bible comes alive for church groups. 24 7 Theme Park Celebrations That Will Rock Your Youth Group BY ALEX KELLY Special musical events appeal to young Christians. ON THE COVER: Fathom cruise programs bring 26 Planning A Successful Spiritual Journey hope to the less fortunate. BY VANESSA DAY (Fathom Photo)

A clear direction, proactive marketing and enthusiasm A gospel group performs at are key when planning a faith-based tour. southern Indiana’s Holiday World theme park.

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Randy Mink

Group Travel Opens Up New Horizons Vol. 6, No. 1, 2016 Edition Editorial Office 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 hether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime it can be daunting to plan a trip to the P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 W pilgrimage to explore one’s faith, a Holy Land. “Israel: A Journey to the Holy [email protected] mission trip to assist an underprivileged Land in the Footsteps of Jesus” helps first- society, week-long fellowship cruise to the timers by answering frequently asked Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk Caribbean, weekend retreat or day-long questions, spotlighting the top biblical [email protected] youth group trip to a local theme or water destinations and providing insights from park, nothing brings a congregation together church leaders who’ve taken groups there. Managing Editor – Randy Mink like spiritual group travel. Closer to home, retreats are a popular [email protected] All these topics and more are included in activity for multiple segments of the church the 6th annual edition of Religious Travel family, including the women’s group, men’s Contributing Writers Planning Guide, a guidepost for churches group, youth group and couples. In “Retreat Vanessa Day Rachel Gilmore and religious organizations to build or Planning 101,” author Rachel Gilmore helps Alex Kelly enhance their travel offerings and bring smooth the way in putting together an Daniel Morrill their members closer to the mission. enlightening spiritual experience. If you have been thinking about organiz- Nothing screams fun for youth groups Director, Design & Production – Robert Wyszkowski ing a trip to Rome for your parish, like a day out at the amusement park. [email protected] Francis couldn’t have given you a clearer “7 Theme Celebrations that will Rock Your sign that 2016 is the year to go. “A Special Youth Group” will help you create an Advertising Sales Office Phone: 630.794.0696 Year in Rome” provides guidance from tour unforgettable experience that will mix fun [email protected] operators who have packaged programs. and spiritual growth. www.ptmgroups.com Another significant event, the 500th The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, is The Story Continues advertising, but assumes no responsi bility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the set for 2017 and the countries of Germany This magazine is just the beginning. On- accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not and Switzerland are busily preparing for the line, at ReligiousTravelPlanningGuide.com, responsible for the return of unsolicited photos or manuscripts. influx of tourists to witness this once-in-a- we profile faith travel destinations, feature Religious Travel Planning Guide is published annually by lifetime experience. Read about where and best practices and interview successful trip Premier Travel Media, 621 Plainfield Rd., Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL when to go in these two special sections. planners throughout the year. Each month 60527. Postage paid at Willowbrook, IL and Lebanon Junction, KY. The magazine is distributed free to religious group travel While religious travel is often steeped in we compile digests of the best online content organizers and travel suppliers catering to history, a new brand company aims to in InSite, our free e-newsletter. the market. Single copies for all others is $9.95. build a legacy of humanitarian good will. All of us at Religious Travel Planning Send Address Change to: Fathom sets sail this spring on weekly cruises Guide wish you the best in creating mean- Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 to the Caribbean, alternating between the ingful trips that will energize and inspire Willowbrook, IL 60527 Dominican Republic and Cuba. These new your community of faith. adventures in the Caribbean provide oppor- Happy Traveling, tunities to meet the people and lend a helping A publication hand to those less fortunate. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced Israel is a perennial favorite for religious Randy Mink in any form without written permission of the publisher. travelers. But if your church has never been, Managing Editor

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travel that touches the spirit and enriches the soul

St. Peter’s Basilica,

Offer the world to your travelers with journeys to all seven continents. To learn about our extensive tour selection, call 800.762.5345 or your local Travel Agent. faith CST# 2006766-20 UBN# 601220855 Nevada Seller of Travel Registration No. 2003-0279 LGT_R8-9_Layout 1 1/20/16 8:23 AM Page 8 Fathom Cruises with a Purpose Fathom combines service opportunities and the fun elements New adventures in the Caribbean of a cruise vacation on the MV Adonia. provide opportunities to meet the people and lend a helping hand

athom is a new company that combines your love of travel For example, travelers can work with a women’s cooperative to with your desire to make a differ ence. On a tr ip with plant and harvest cacao fields and produce chocolate, helping these F Fathom, travelers serve alongside community partners in the women get to a scale where they can hire more workers and support Dominican Republic to tackle environmental, educational and eco- more families on their own; help kids in schools improve their con- nomic development needs; in Cuba, we intend to enable trav elers versational English, better preparing them for broader career oppor- to participate in cultural immersion. We are the 10th brand and a tunities; work with small business owners to improve their marketing wholly owned subsidiary of Carnival Corporation & plc, the world’s and operations to attract foreign consumers and ensure the livelihoods largest travel company. of future generations; make clay water filters that improve the health Our first destination is the Dominican Republic, where we will of families who lack clean drinking water (more than two million begin sailing in April 2016, and our intention is to begin sailing to Dominicans do not have access to piped water). A significant portion Cuba in May 2016, subject to approval from the Cuban government of each ticket price contributes funds to the partner organizations to which we are optimistic about receiving very soon. cover expenses, supplies, personnel and general operations. Fathom Fathom journeys will start with one to two days at sea preparing has also invested start-up capital with the partner organizations to hearts and minds for the on-ground experience, including a wide establish improved operating models and facilities capacity. variety of fun and engaging impact-readiness experiences, including There is also time to explore the beauty of this country and learn an orientation to the Dominican Republic or Cuba, conversational more about Dominicans by visiting his- Spanish lessons, impact activity training and creative workshops. toric cities, markets and muse- We have the perfect vessel for our travelers: the MV Adonia. It ums, hiking to a waterfall or is an intimate ship (710 passengers), ideal for bonding with fellow surfing incredible waves. passengers as well as for finding space for quiet self-reflection. It is In Cuba, we will offer our impact playground and academy. Start the day with yoga on the comprehensive itineraries lido deck as the sun rises and end the day with a delicious Domini- that enable deep insight can or Cuban-inspired, chef-prepared meal shared with fellow trav- into Cuban culture, his- elers as the sun sets. While en route to your destination, you will tory and architecture that learn about and experience Dominican and Cuban art, music and are inspirational and en- history as we sail to these countries. Adonia offers our travelers a gaging – and also compl y safe, comfortable and convenient venue. We want our travelers to with all legal r egulations. feel nurtured and secure, so they will be at their best as they tac kle Fathom is developing an community challenges and needs. Once on-ground, Fathom travelers choose from a variety of social impact activities, including a wide range of pr ojects focused on education, environment and economic development. Depending on each traveler’s passions and skills, they can spend up to three days working alongside locals and Fathom partner organizations on the causes the traveler really cares about. Activities vary, including things for people who want to be physically active, as well as things for those who prefer a less physically demanding volunteer opportunity. All travelers will be able to find a great fit.

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exciting program of activities that highlight the beauty and historical • Being unabashed about our desire to make money while doing significance of our three ports of call: Havana, Santiago and Cien- good. We know we need to create sustainable revenue for social fuegos. The trip will be magical – offering a glimpse into another impact to thrive. Philanthropic gifts aren’t enough, and they aren’t time and a very special place – and hence is a very different experience predictable. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, from other cruises in the Caribbean. we have access to the technical, maritime and Return home knowing that y ou are now operational expertise required for operating part of a tribe of travelers dedicated to making excellence, while retaining a differentiated the world a better place in a sustainable way . product experience team committed to build- And that you touched the lives of those you ing something the world has never seen. Our spent time with. unique business model pairs market demand Footprints in the sand are fleeting. Travel- with social needs, which allows for sustained ing with Fathom leaves an impact that lasts. impact and lasting development. • Our belief that travel can and What exactly is unique about Fathom? should be restorative and fun, We have pioneered a new category of travel, but can also make a Fathom passengers participate in focused on making a positiv e impact on the environmental and other work projects that difference for good. world, while having fun. What makes us unique make a difference in local communities. Many people from mission trips or volunteerism is: long to • Our long-term, collaborative approach make a difference in the with partners in the countries we visit. These are people and or- world but have no idea ganizations who have worked for years to make their com- where to begin. We munities a better place and w e have learned from them will provide nourish- how we can best augment their results; and we will do ing opportunities to be this by traveling to set locations on a regular basis. By immersed in another bringing 700 passengers to w ork 3 days a week we culture and community, have the potential to offer 2,000 traveler impact days to make r elevant, lasting per week to the communities we visit. contributions.  Plunging into another • Our sincere belief that the culture can be a life- person-to-person connection is changing experience for Fathom travelers in the among the str ongest cata- Dominican Republic. lysts for transformation.

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By Rachel Gilmore

eteran retreat speaker and author Jane Rubietta says this In forming your RLT, you should keep a few things in mind. about the retreat planning process: “It starts with leadership. First, your team size will vary depending on your group size and VIt’s paramount to create a spirit of unity on the leadership needs. In general, use a minimum of three for a small (8-12 person) team so that it’s not about one person’s agendas or ideas or self-es- retreat and eight to ten for larger (50 person and up) r etreats, and teem. The real question that the leadership needs to be asking is be sure to include youth on your planning team if it’s a youth or in- ‘What does the Lord want for and from our group?’” tergenerational retreat. Second, your planners should also be com- Once your ministry team has answered that question, you are mitted to attending r etreat since they will hav e some on-site ready to begin the retreat planning process, which begins with cre- responsibilities. In addition, these leaders need positive attitudes ating your Retreat Leadership Team, whose members should be on and a willingness to cooperate and work together, especially during board with the answer to the above question. the first year’s planning process. Note: You may need to pull in ad-

I ditional volunteers to handle specific tasks like facilitating a discus- Forming a Retreat Leadership Team (RLT) sion group, storytelling or leading your worship music. Do what The first year I organized a retreat for my moms group, Moms makes sense for your group. LINK, I did a lot of delegating. No one attending had ever been on In general, your planning will begin eight to twelve months be- a retreat before, nor had any idea what to expect. The RLT consisted fore the event, and the RLT should anticipate meeting three to four of the current group president, another officer and an interested times during the first few months to secure the site reservation and group member, in addition to me. I did a lot of explaining and begin initial planning. Depending on how far in advance you’ve showing examples of activities from other retreats I’d led. Together started, your RLT will likely have a several month break where no we did a lot of brainstorming . Then ladies took on tasks they felt action is needed. Then approximately six months before your retreat, comfortable organizing. One woman planned a mixer; another cre- the RLT will need to meet fair ly regularly for several weeks to fi- ated discussion questions for a f ilm clip. The third planned our nalize the theme, prepare the registration brochure, decide on pub- group craft. I handled the rest of the overall organization and ses- licity and brainstorm session activities. Once the r egistration sion planning. The result was a wonderful retreat that left women brochure is out, the RLT will probably meet once a month to con- renewed and refreshed. tinue planning and to organize the registrations. Approximately two

Retreats allow church members to slip away from the everyday world and reconnect with God and the principles of their faith. Retreat ©iStockphoto.com/Paolo Cipriani Planning 101 Tips from an expert will help the smooth the way in putting together a meaningful spiritual experience for your group

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weeks prior to departure, the RLT will meet to finalize numbers, northern Ohio, so being outside is only a priority if you’re counting give a final count to the conference center (unless required before on snow. Or maybe your small group is your church quilting group, this date), prepare a master To Do list, assign carpools and housing, and all free time will be spent indoors w orking on projects so and divide up any remaining tasks and/or decide on the on-site re- weather and surroundings aren’t as important. Just plan accordingly. sponsibilities for RLT members. The terrain may be a factor for y our group, as well. One camp Lastly, your RLT should have a built-in mentoring mechanism I’ve used extensively in Michigan is built on a gorgeous sand dune. where the team ne ver starts over with all brand ne w members. While there are boardwalks in place throughout most of the camp, Think about creating two- and three-year positions that will always it is not totally handicapped-accessible and would be challenging allow for experienced RLT members to show the ropes to newcom- for someone with impaired mobility. If your group has anyone with ers. To help you gather potential planners, include a question about special needs, your RLT should be sure to discuss them with the serving on the RLT on your evaluation form. conference center manager to make sure she will be able to be reasonably accommodated. I Choosing a Site and After making a list of your priorities, your Securing Your Reservation RLT should begin the site search process. You can start with the centers listed Site selection is key to a w ell-planned retreat. With your team, in The Complete Leader’s Guide to make a list of the priorities you have for your housing and meeting Christian Retreats. space (see Chapter 4 in The Complete Leader’s Guide to Christian Retreats for hints). One other important factor is the physical sur- roundings of the retreat center. Most camp and conference centers make full use of their natural surroundings, which enhance a par- ticipant’s experience. Some centers hav e densely wooded grounds. Others are on a lake or have a stream or river running through them. Still others may be out in the middle of rural farmland or better yet are in the mountains. And, some will be in ur ban or suburban neighborhoods. In addition, your RLT will need to take into account whether or not your group will want to or be able to take advan- tage of outdoor recreation oppor- tunities. Maybe your retreat will be in January in

©iStockphoto.com/knape

The chance to get out and enjoy nature can be an important part of a retreat program.

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©iStockphoto.com/lisafx ©iStockphoto.com/Christopher Futcher

Prayer and Bible study often take on special I Pricing Your Retreat I Publicizing Your Retreat meaning for church members who renew relationships in a retreat setting. When your RLT confirms a date with Your group size will determine the Or, use the personal recommendations your chosen retreat center, the center should amount of publicity you need to do. If you of group members who are familiar with send out a contract confirming the date, are a single small gr oup that has alr eady camp and conference centers in your area. specifying any special rules or policies and been discussing going on r etreat, you Make a list of sites that sound appealing listing the price for the weekend, including should be able to simpl y distribute a pre- and assign a team member the task of call- all meals, lodging and special ser vices. This liminary interest flyer and request initial ing to see if y our chosen date is available . should also be broken down per person by personal deposits before finalizing a reser- You may want to have an alternate week- the camp. The contract will also state the de- vation. However, if your group is larger or end or two just in case. If no one in your posit required to hold your reservation. The if you will be opening up the r etreat to group has used your chosen facility, your amount will vary from center to center, so non-members, you will want to put pub- RLT should designate at least two people make sure you understand what is r equired licity items in y our church bulletin or to do a site visit before you place any kind of your group upfront. To cover this amount, newsletter and/or get the information on of non-refundable deposit, which will most your group could do several things: your website as soon as you have a date and likely be the next step in y our reservation • If your group has a budget and money location. The retreat brochure should be process. available, vote to approve that the deposit distributed three months prior to the event. funds come from group money. You can If your web team can set up online r egis- then either reimburse the account when all tration for you, even better. retreat registrations are paid, or your group Above all, your RLT needs to set the ex- can subsidize the retreat cost by covering ample in being inclusive. Host a sign-up the initial deposit. table at church and encourage both people • Hold a special fundraiser to cov er the whose names y ou know and those y ou deposit cost or designate funds raised from don’t to sign up for retreat. This invitation an upcoming fundraiser as reimbursement demonstrates the spiritual gift of hospitality to the group account for the retreat deposit. and will let everyone know that all are wel- • If you’re working 6-12 months ahead come, not just a select few. Personal phone of time, ask all those who think they might calls to all the potential retreat participants be interested in attending retreat to help se- are another great outreach tool to make in- cure the reservation by sending in a deposit. dividuals feel included. These initial personal deposits will guarantee As you move into the planning process, them a space on retreat. Most likely you will don’t forget to invite God to be a par t of be able to refund the deposit if someone is that team. “The human mind plans the unable to attend later on. (However, this will way, but the LORD directs the steps” depend on the guaranteed minimum rules (Proverbs 16:9). Lots of time and effort of the conference center you choose. Read goes into creating a meaningful retreat ex- your contract closely and thoroughly!) The perience, but the benefits for participants amount you require upfront should be de- are eternal. May you help renew and re- ducted from the total retreat cost once the fresh spirits and transform minds for registration brochure comes out. God! 

Rachel Gilmore is the author of The Complete Leader’s Guide to Christian Retreats (Judson Press, 2008, judsonpress.com). She is happ y to ans wer planning questions via email ([email protected]) and is available to work as a con- sultant with your planning team or serve as a retreat speaker.

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By Daniel Morrill

f you have been thinking about organizing a trip to Rome for your parish, couldn’t have given you a I clearer sign that 2016 is the year to go. On March 13 of 2015, Pope Francis declared that 2016 would be a Year of Jubilee that would be named the Holy Year of Mercy. The idea of the Year of Jubilee comes fr om Leviticus, in which a Year of Jubilee was a special y ear for having sins forgiven and forgiving the debts of others. In 1300, Pope Boniface VIII declared the f irst Year of Jubilee for the , and there have been 28 Years of Jubilee since, with the last being in 2000 under Pope John Paul II. The Year of Jubilee officially began when Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican on Dec. 8, giving groups a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity this year in Rome. “The main draw for visiting Rome in 2016 is the abilit y to pass through the Holy Door at one of the major basili- cas,” said Joann Dyer, manager of emerging mar kets for the Globus family of brands. “We’ll provide travelers with time and an opportunity at one of the four major basilicas to go through the Holy Door and receive the sacrament of forgiveness.” The Year of Jubilee will conclude on Nov. 20, 2016, giving you time to organize a group from your parish for a one-of- a-kind pilgrimage. Several tour companies are running special Year of Jubilee group tours in Rome throughout 2016, each with their own unique way to experience the Holy Year of Mercy. family of brands Globus

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Passing through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome will be among the highlights of Year of Jubilee tours.

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I Globus and Cosmos Dyer said. “Rome is already expecting a record number of visitors Globus and Cosmos (a Globus brand) ar e each offering a Year for the Jubilee Year, so traveling with a company that has ov er 87 of Jubilee tour option in Rome. Globus’ “Grand Catholic Italy” tour years of logistical experience and excellent guest satisfaction will be is 10 days starting in Rome and ending in Venice with stops in Cas- key.” cia, Assisi and Padua along the way. Guided tour stops include eight Cosmos’ “Spiritual Highlights of Italy” tour is nine day s in and basilicas (including St. Peter’s Basilica), the Holy Stairs, Sistine around Rome. The tour visits all four of Rome’s major basilicas, the Chapel and Monastery of St. Damian. Vatican, and other Rome hotspots such as the Colos- “On all Globus and Cosmos tours guests r eceive VIP access to seum and the Roman Forum, as well as lesser-known but sacr ed some of the busiest and most popular sights in the world and have sights such as San Giovanni Rotondo, home of St. Padre Pio, and our award-winning tour directors with them every step of the way,” Lanciano, the site of an eighth-century Eucharistic Miracle. “Our escorted faith tour packages and itin- eraries have been honed by more than eight decades of experience and a passion for religious travel,” Dyer said. For more information on Globus and Cos- mos Year of Jubilee tours, visit globusjour- neys.com and cosmos.com. I Regina Tours Regina Tours, which specializes in Catholic pilgrimages, has enhanced several of its existing tours to take advantage of special Year of Jubilee opportunities, including passing through the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica. “The uniqueness [of the Year of Jubilee] is the experience of traveling on a pilgrimage that involves the forgiveness of sins as well as recon- ciliation,” said N ick Mancino, president of Regina Tours. “Beatingo: Pilgrimage to Medjugorje, Rome, and Giovani Rotondo” is a nine-day tour that includes a rare chance to be a part of a Papal Audience, depending on Pope Francis’ schedule. Other highlights include two days of medita- tion and sightseeing in Medjugorje (a peaceful village in Bosnia and Herzegovina), a ferry ride across the Adriatic Sea, a day in San Giovanni Rotondo and four days in Rome. In addition to a possible Papal Audience, groups will get to ex- perience the Vatican Museum, Catacombs and other popular sites in the City of Seven Hills. The “Eternal City of Rome” tour hits many of the same sites as the nine-day pilgrimage, but in a shorter, seven-day tour exclusively in and around Rome. Groups may also be interested in the one-time “Canonization of Mother Theresa” seven-day tour in September of 2016. The tour revolves around the canonization of Mother Theresa of Calcutta, who embodied the Year of Jubilee theme of mercy, and includes several days of sightseeing in Rome. For more information on Regina Tours Year of Jubilee tours, visit regina-tours.com. 20 Religious Travel Planning Guide religioustravelplanningguide.com LGT_R18-21_Layout 1 1/20/16 8:49 AM Page 21

I Collette

Collette offers almost 20 different tours to Italy, and several offer great opportunities to visit the Eternal City of Rome during the Year of Jubilee. “In this special year of mercy, the Pope has invited Catholics to join together in renewal and solidarity by making the pilgrimage to the great basilicas of Rome,” said Amelia Sug- erman, public relations manager at Collette. “There are multiple guided travel experiences with dozens of departure dates to choose from to bring your congregation to Rome.” “Shrines of Ital y” is an 11-day trip that starts and ends in Rome , with stops in Assisi, Pompeii, Flo- rence (an optional excursion) and San Giovanni Rotondo in the mid- dle of the tour. The time in Rome hits all of the major highlights in- cluding the Sistine Chapel, all four of Rome’s major basilicas, the Cata- combs, Vatican Museum and a pos- sible Papal Audience, depending on Pope Francis’ schedule. Two more Collette tours, “Spot- light on Rome” and “Venice, Flo- rence & Rome,” are not faith-based in nature, but visit many of the same iconic Rome attractions that faith-based tours do. “Spotlight on Rome” is a se ven-day tour in and around Rome that includes a spe- cial trip to Ostia Antica, the harbor city of ancient Rome that is r e- markably well-preserved. The “Venice, Florence & Rome ” tour spends nine days touring the three cities in its name, arguably the three most beautiful cities in Italy. High- lights in Rome inc lude the Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Vatican Mu- seum and St. Peter’s Basilica. Collette For more infor mation on The Roman Colosseum, used for gladiatorial combat and hunting events, symbolizes the glories of ancient Rome. Collette Year of Jubilee tours, visit The arena dates back to 80 A.D. gocollette.com. I Perillo Tours Perillo Tours has cr eated an eight-day “Rome Jubilee Tour” exclusively for 2016’s Year of Jubilee, which is available 14 different times between March and October. Accom- modations are at a four-star Rome hotel within walking distance of the Vatican. The tour hits all of the major sites in the Vatican, but includes a private tour of the Sistine Chapel and the Papal Gardens, as well as special access to the , Sala Di Chiaroscuro and the secret Niccoline Chapel, which are not seen by most groups. A Papal Audience is also on the schedule, depending on Pope Francis’ schedule. The trip includes a tour of Rome’s historic Jewish Ghetto, a free day in Rome and a day trip to Castelli Romani, a group of fortified villages just southeast of the Eternal City. For more infor mation on P erillo Tours’ special Year of Jubilee tour , visit perillotours.com.  religioustravelplanningguide.com Religious Travel Planning Guide 21 LGT_R22-23*f_Layout 1 1/20/16 8:10 AM Page 22

Germany Celebrates a Religious Milestone The Protestant Reformation marks a half millennium in 2017 Martin Luther DZT/Andrew Cowin

n October 31, 1517 Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door The Heartland of Luther’s Legacy of the castle church in Wittenberg, Germany. This single act was More than 30 sites all over Germany allow you to discover Luther’s legacy. responsible for a worldwide movement whose legacy is still felt There are four prominent Luther cities in Germany: Eisleben, Wittenberg, Otoday. It was an event that changed the world—the Reformation Eisenach and Erfurt. Luther was born in Eisleben in 1483 and died there in did not only affect theology and the church but also had an impact on culture, 1546. But he spent the greater part of his life in Wittenberg, where he taught science, business, politics, language and education. and practiced his beliefs for 35 years. Through 2017, Germany is paying tribute to one of its most influential sons, At Wartburg Castle in Eisenach, Luther translated the New Testament into Martin Luther, with an entire decade devoted to the rebel and church reformer. the German language, in 10 weeks time. Erfurt was of importance for Luther’s This great anniversary is being celebrated with exhibitions, festivals and life, since he studied there and also became a monk. concerts across the country. Download the “Luther 2017” eBrochure and find eight inspiring routes and Take the 500th anniversary of the Reformation as an occasion to travel with ideas at www.germany.travel/ebrochures. your group to Germany and follow in the footsteps of Martin Luther on a fascinating journey to the age of the Reformation. Travel to Germany is Easy Located in the heart of Europe, Germany is easy to reach. Every week, there are almost 500 nonstop flights from the U.S. to Germany. The excellent infrastructure, from high-speed trains to rental cars, buses and domestic flights, makes traveling the country simple and efficient. When it comes to hospitality, Germany offers services for everyone. Germany has boasted one of the lowest average hotel rates in Europe for many years. Now, the record-low euro-to-dollar exchange rate makes Germany an irresistible value for your group. For more information on Germany, visit www.germany.travel.

DZT/Wartburg-Stiftung/Bildarchiv Monheim GmbH Wartburg Castle, Eisenach

LUTHER 2017 EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS NATIONAL EXHIBITIONS June 10-12, 2016 April 12-November 5, 2017 Lutherstadt Wittenberg Berlin Luther’s Wedding Festival The Luther Effect. 500 Years www.wittenberg.de Since the Reformation www.dhm.de November 12-13, 2016 Eisleben April 13-July 2, 2017 Festival celebrating Luther’s birthday Lutherstadt Wittenberg with large medieval market Luther! 95 People – 95 Treasures www.lutherstaedte-eisleben-mansfeld.de www.martinluther.de CHURCH EVENTS May 20-September 10, 2017 May 4-November 5, 2017 Lutherstadt Wittenberg Eisenach/Wartburg World Reformation Exhibition Luther and the Germans www.r2017.org www.wartburg.de

May 24-28, 2017 For more information on Luther events and Berlin and Lutherstadt Wittenberg exhibitions, visit www.germany.travel/luther. 26th German Protestant Church Festival Gläscher MG/Jörg The church door memorializing Luther’s 95 theses www.kirchentag.de LGT_R22-23*f_Layout 1 1/20/16 8:09 AM Page 23 LGT_R24-25_Layout 1 1/20/16 8:57 AM Page 24

Theme Park Celebrations That Will Rock Your Youth Group Special musical events appeal 7to young Christians By Alex Kelly

ant to give your youth group a night they’ll remember for more space - a necessity given that 2015’s event was sold out. for the rest of their lives? Consider making a theme park The move also will ensure that bad weather will no longer pose a W your group’s next destination. risk to the celebration. While some dislike the relocation, Walt Dis- While you may believe an amusement park isn’t the best place ney World will continue to offer both entrance to the Magic King- for learning and worship, many parks host celebrations specifically dom for participants as well as complimentary transportation from for Christian groups, where popular bands such as the complex to the par k, making sure that this year’s Skillet, Switchfoot and perform. Best of all, most of these will be just as joyful as it was last year. events include entry to the parks themselves in the ticket price and offer group discounts to boot. If you’re looking to create an unfor- 2. Rock the Universe gettable experience that will mix fun and spiritual growth for your Held in September as an alternative to Night of Joy, this spec- group, check out these seven events held annually at U.S. theme tacular two-night event at Florida’s Resort fea- parks beloved by millions. tures big-name Christian rock and hip-hop groups performing at the Music Plaza. Attendees can listen to international guest speak- 1. Night of Joy ers and the winners of Waves of Glory, the Christian rock battle of As one of the top theme parks in the country, Walt Disney World the bands competition, as well as take part in a special Candlelight- Resort has held one of the best Chr istian events since 1983. Night ing Ceremony. Over the weekend, participants may attend auto- of Joy is a must for youth groups, with major bands traveling to cen- graph sessions and karaoke competitions at FanZone, and come tral Florida to perform for two nights in September. Performances together to worship at a Sunday morning service. Of course, par- previously took place in the Magic Kingdom, with iconic rides such ticipants can also enjoy the theme park itself – tickets for Rock the as Pirates of the Car ibbean and Splash Mountain staying open Universe come with admission to three full days of single-park ad- through the night for guests, but Disney has recently announced ex- mission to either Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure, or up- pansion plans for the e vent. As of 2016, performances instead will grade to park-to-park admission. Either way, your group would be take place at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports Complex, which allow guaranteed to enjoy Universal’s “weekend of faith and fun.”

Kingdom Bound (also shown above) brings Christian bands to Darien Lake Theme Park in upstate New York.

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3. Young Christians Weekend 5. Kingdom Bound Silver Dollar City, one of Branson, Missouri’s most popular at- Kingdom Bound takes place every year at Darien Lake Theme tractions, holds an event that is perfect for youth groups. Young Park in New York, roughly 30 miles from Buffalo. Kingdom Bound Christians Weekend goes into full swing from April 1-3 in 2016. Ministries, the group that sponsors Kingdom Bound as well as other Participants can enjoy the theme park’s many rides and roller coast- religious festivals and concerts, is already hosting a countdown to ers during the day, and head to the Echo Hollow Amphitheater the event at kingdombound.org, where interested parties can learn every night to hear from popular bands and exciting guest speakers. more about the celebration to be held in Jul y of 2016. This year’s Your group can also take part in one of the event’s workshops, de- performers have already been announced – bands will inc lude signed for different genders and age groups; these sessions help your RED and The City Harmonic as w ell as guest speaker Reggie group question and learn from the world around them. After two Dabbs, a public school favorite who recently co-authored the book days of fun and music, everyone can join in on one of the Sunday Just Keep Breathing with John Driver that features a collection of morning worship services. It’s important to note that tickets for narratives detailing the struggles of the Millennial generation. In YCW must be reserved in advance, with tickets already on sale as addition to these performers, Kingdom Bound will also include late- of December 2015. night activities such as campfire parties, lip-sync battles and movie nights allowing the spiritual party to continue well into the night. 6. Rock the World Located in the appropriately named town of Santa Claus, Indiana, Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari is an award-winning value park that is the home of Rock the World, a celebration that is attended by thousands around the Midwest every year. Though the event is held

Holiday World attracts primarily in a nearby field at night, those who wish for an ear lier young fun-seekers to Santa start to their day c an most likely find performers at the Hoosier Claus, Indiana. Celebration Theater before seeking out the main event in the evening. Participants of the 2016 event on August 20 do need to buy their 4. National Southern Gospel event ticket in addition to their par k entry ticket, and must provide and Harvest Celebration their own seating – bug spray is recommended too.

This event, held at the world-famous Dollywood theme park in 7. Praise Wave Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a celebration unlike any other. Held SeaWorld Orlando holds its own fun event ever year with Praise throughout the entire month of October, the National Southern Wave, a youth group favorite. During three Saturdays in March, Gospel and Har vest Celebration inc ludes over 300 free gospel Christian rock bands and performers flock to SeaWorld to perform concerts held around the park, so visitors can enjoy the experience at the Bayside Pathway throughout the day for par k attendees. no matter what day they visit. The gospel event, which last year 2015’s lineup included performers such as Fred Hammond and included artists such as Chronicle and the Griffith Family, takes Colton Dixon, a former Amer ican Idol contestant. This event, place alongside the har vest celebration wher e craftsmen give which like SeaWorld’s Disney and Universal counterparts is held demonstrations and make beautiful creations such as art, jewelry only at its Orlando location, is complete with cookout-style food and stained glass. and favorite SeaWorld characters that are sure to be a blast. 

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Planning a Successful Spiritual Journey A clear direction, proactive marketing and enthusiasm are key when planning a faith-based tour with your church By Vanessa Day Terra Lu Travel Photos

A Lutheran group poses outside Prague’s St. Vitus Cathedral on a tour organized by Terra Lu Travel of Germany. Below: Medieval Rothenburg, Germany.

raveling as a congregation is a valuable experience that in- that will be traveling,” says Rowena Drinkhouse, vice president of spires kinship. It isn’t always easy to organize a faith-based Reformation Tours. T tour, especially if it’s your first time doing it. However, the ex- It’s also important to think about what kind of attractions y ou perts in the industry know that once a church successfully arranges a will want to see, how many days you will want to be in each city or trip, people see the value in it and immediatel y want to know when country, kinds of accommodations and the best form of transporta- the next one will be. tion. This is where working with an experienced tour operator is There are a lot of things to consider when planning a trip, and extremely helpful, as it can coordinate with the church to develop churches that are new to the game will face some challenges. How- the perfect itinerary for their goals, audience and budget. ever, with the right attitude, strong ambi- Something else to consider when selecting tion and some helpful advice from industry a destination and organizing the trip is getting experts, churches can successfully organize the pastor or priest on board. Almost all indus- a religious trip and encourage passion and try experts agree that getting the pr iest in- enthusiasm from their congregations. volved in the tr ip is an essential par t of

I boosting participation from the congregation. First Steps “The best [thing] any of them c an do is have Before putting pen to paper , churches the pastor be up front and say ‘I’m going,’” says need to identify what they want to get out of Larsen. “Because for the most part, wherever the trip, according to Paul Larsen of Ed- he’s going, his flock will follow.” Ventures. Churches should determine their Nick Mancino of Regina Tours agrees, goals for the trip, so they can then find a des- saying that if the pastor or priest is actively tination and itinerary that will help them meet that goal. It can be as engaged with the planning and promotion of the trip, it will be suc- simple as traveling together to increase fellowship, or acknowledging cessful. However, one thing Mancino does r ecommend, especially a special anniversary or religious event, or learning about their r eli- in the Catholic churches since priests are stretched thin with their gious heritage. Whatever the goal may be, keep it in mind the whole duties, is to find someone else in the leadership team who can pro- way through the planning process and into the trip itself. vide their full commitment to the trip. Once a church knows the purpose of their trip, they then need Another thing to keep in mind is timing. “I would advise a church to determine the destination and the kind of itinerar y they want. to book as far in advance as possible,” says John Klados of Homeric The itinerary portion definitely takes some time to put together, Tours. “A year-plus in advance to make it easier for the chur ch and and there are many elements to consider. “When you’re planning the members.” This not only allows ample time to organize the trip, the trip, it’s important to think about an ideal pace for the age group but also plenty of time to promote it to the congregation.

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I Spread the Word Second, don’t book late. “Give yourself The itinerary is set, the trip is marked on plenty of time to plan and get the word out to the calendar, and now it’s time to get the word everyone,” says Mancino. The more time you out. One of the best ways to do this is to ac- allow yourself, the more successful the trip will tively use the tools available at the church, such be. as the church newsletter and bulletin board. It’s Third, avoid traveling on major holidays if also a good idea to have the trip mentioned in you can. “If you’re going to Israel, you want to the mass announcements, and if the priest or avoid Jewish holidays,” says Klados. “Because pastor promotes it, that is even more powerful hotels fill up, it’s more expensive, it takes longer because people will be more inclined to listen to get a response, and attractions are crowded.” and learn more about it. Fourth, when putting together the itinerary, “Enthusiasm is key!” says Drinkhouse. “If don’t try to squeeze everything in. “It’s always the pastor is excited about the trip, his con- tempting to try and see everything, but the best gregation will catch the vision.” tours include some free time,” says Drinkhouse. Another way to educate patrons about the “Focus on the m ust-see highlights and then trip is to host a special luncheon or brunch build the itinerary around those.” When you after services are over, according to both Kla- organize the tour this way, it enables people to dos and Drinkhouse. The church website is relax, explore on their own time and visit some another useful tool for organizers, says Man- attractions if they wish to do so. cino, and many tour operators can help design Finally, don’t always pick the most com- a dedicated page for the trip with information mon destinations or itinerar ies. Places like on the destination, the itinerary and accom- Italy and Israel will al ways be popular, but modations and great photos to really get peo- they are not the only options. There are hun- ple excited. dreds of interesting faith-oriented itineraries There are times when one chur ch may to choose from, and tour operators can help struggle to get enough participants, and that’s you identify which one will w ork for your when it’s smart to invite people fr om other congregation and the goals you have for the churches or get another church on board with trip. Changing things up will also keep y our yours. Having two churches promoting the patrons interested, engaged and eager to sign trip will inevitably generate more buzz and in- up for the next trip. terest. I “It’s hard to get a pr ogram going,” says Emphasize the Value Larsen. “Especially the first time.” However, Whether you've planned religious trips be- once patrons realize the value of r eligious fore or you're treading into new territory, these travel, they want to keep going, they want to pieces of advice and insight will help you or- do it again. To build initial excitement for ganize a great faith-based tour for your con- that, Larsen recommends planting a seed for gregation. On top of all these tips, one of the the next trip while your group is still on the best things to emphasize is how valuable these first one. kinds of vacations can be. Every industry ex-

I pert says that once people see the value, they What Not to Do want to keep going on the trips. Now that you’ve got your to-do list, here “A tour is an ideal way for church families to are some items to put on the not-to-do list spend quality time together,” says Drinkhouse. when organizing faith-based tours. First, don’t “Pastors can really get to know their congrega- be inactive. tion and share fun and fellowship.” “It doesn’t work to just put a note in the It takes dedication, time and faith to or- bulletin,” says Larsen. “There has to be more ganize a religious trip for your congregation. effort. There has to be a r eason why we’re It can be difficult to get the f irst one off the doing this.” Church leaders have to take a ground, but with some strategic planning and very proactive role in not onl y putting the influential marketing, you can put together a tour together but also pr omoting it to the very successful trip that will lead to many congregation. more in the future. 

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This One Tool Could Be the Difference Between Success and Failure Fresh Destinations - Case Studies Featured Videos - Insider Advice InSite on Religious Travel, the monthly e-newsletter from the publishers of Religious Travel Planning Guide, is a guidepost of new ideas and best practices for the religious travel community. Each edition features fresh takes on lanning a pilgrimage? destinations, planning advice from peers POrganizing a retreat? Frustrated and pros plus late-breaking news and by fundraising? Vetting tour operators? special group offers. If you’re involved in arranging travel for your parishioners, there are often Over 30,000 faith travel groups rely more questions than answers. And let’s on InSite each month as their primary face it, searching for the right mix of fun, source of news, information and inspiration fellowship and faith can be…challenging. in plotting spiritual journeys. You can, too.

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