<p> “Walking with Christians in the Holy Land” December 28, 2017- January 8, 2018</p><p>An experiential learning trip for Christians</p><p>What will we do?: We will visit key Biblical sites in and around Jerusalem (including Bethlehem and Nazareth) and seek to build relationships with local Christians and others engaged in the pursuit of peace in the Holy Land. We will also celebrate Orthodox Christmas in Bethlehem (January 6/7th) with local Christians. It will not be a typical sightseeing tour. Much time will be spent in conversation with locals as we learn about the current situation and how people of faith, especially Christians, are living out their faith in this challenging time and place (and what this means to us). Most evenings will include debriefing together as a group. Our goal is to be on pilgrimage in order to walk in the way of Jesus, both in His actual steps and in the way that we are taught to be in relationship. The trip also seeks to engage people from Hope and Humble Walk who cannot make the physical pilgrimage but want to learn and grow in faith.</p><p>Where will we stay?: The Lutheran World Federation guest house on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem will be our primary residence (the tower on the upper right hand side of the photo).</p><p>Trip Leaders: Pr. Julie Bringman, Pr. Ray Ranker and Karin Brown. Pr. Ray and Karin have led multiple trips to the Holy Land. Karin was born near Jerusalem, lived there for several years of her life, and currently serves as the ELCA’s coordinator of the Peace Not Walls program focused on the Holy Land. </p><p>Cost: $1350 (Does not include airfare. Includes lodging, all but two meals, local transportation, tour guide fees, entrance fees, tips). *Airfare to Tel Aviv is expected to be in the $800-900 range, roundtrip from Washington D.C.</p><p>Expectations: Participants will be expected to participate in three group meetings before the trip to prepare, and two meetings after the trip to reflect, in addition to participating in all activities and conversations on the trip (and blogging once while on the trip). All participants should be prepared to walk several miles a day (no cars are allowed in the Old City of Jerusalem).</p><p>Other Details: There are a total of 16 spots (with additional spots available depending on interest) with 8 reserved for Hope members and 8 reserved for UMD students. We will start taking deposits on April 1, and a $350 deposit reserves your spot. Informational meetings will take place at Hope on Wednesday March 15 at 8:15pm and Sunday March 26 at 9am and 7:15pm. Questions? Email Pr. Ray Ranker ([email protected]) or call at 301 405 8448</p>