Spiritual journeys can be an important way to reconnect with your faith, explore new ways of growing your spirituality and even make a difference in the lives of others. This type of trip can also be an opportunity to meet new friends from your Church community.
The Christian HolyLand Foundation arranges trips for churches that place a high value on these connections. As travel has reopened after the COVID-19 pandemic, Nance hopes to see many more groups go there.
Israel & Jordan
Experience the Holy Land on organized excursions for believers. Walk where Jesus walked and see the biblical sites that set the foundation of Christianity. This tour package includes 9 nights of accommodation, transport around Israel and Jordan in a luxury coach, and an itinerary that’s both awe-inspiring and exhilarating. Book this tour individually or with your church or community group* and start a spiritual journey of a lifetime.
Board a flight to Tel Aviv and explore the city’s ancient historic sites, including the Hippodrome and Knights’ Halls of Caesarea Philippi and an interactive replica of the Town of Nazareth as it was during Jesus’ time (Mark 1:2-4). Venture out across the Galilee to discover Cana, where Jesus turned water into wine during a wedding celebration (John 2:1-11). Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, which sits over the site where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, and venture beneath the St. Joseph Church, where remains of the Holy family’s house have been discovered. Continue to the Sea of Galilee, stopping at Capernaum and the Mount of Beatitudes, before reaching the Jordan River Baptism Site, where John baptized Christ in the River (Luke 3). Journey into the stunning Judean Desert and reach Masada. Explore this iconic national landmark and take in the special ambience, while also determining whether to participate in a baptism ceremony yourself.
Embark on the last leg of your pilgrimage to the land of the Bible. Fly into Jordan and visit Madaba, where the prophet Jonah fled from God, and then head to the mountaintop ruins of Petra, where a spectacular red-and-white rose-colored rock archeological site has become a symbol of this once-in-a-lifetime destination.
Travel back in time on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the Holy Land. This guided tour, led by Dr Miles Jones and Monte Judah of Living Passages, will bring you to the most important sights in the biblical narrative: The Sea of Galilee, where Jesus performed many of his miracles; Mount Tabor, where Moses struck the mountaintop to receive the Ten Commandments; and Jerusalem, where he was crucified, buried, and then rose from the dead.
Germany
In Germany, many spiritual tourists visit religious sites and monasteries for spiritual growth. These tours are often organized by faith organizations, churches, or family groups, and they can be a great way to bond with fellow believers and explore their shared heritage. The country’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture also make it a fascinating destination for religious tourists.
Witte Tours has operated tours for pastors and their congregations, religious organizations, scholars, historians, and family groups for more than three decades. The company’s custom-designed trips provide a unique fellowship as travelers refresh mind, body, and spirit. Each tour is a made-to-order combination of religious activities, popular attractions, hidden treasures, and free time. The result is an unforgettable experience for believers and nonbelievers alike.
As the world’s largest European economy, Germany draws many religious tourists. Its 82 million citizens, including approximately four million refugees, have shaped the nation’s culture and values. Many of the nation’s religious sites are also of great historical significance and architectural beauty, making them appealing destinations for believers.
For Lutheran Christians, a trip to Germany’s “Lutherland” is an opportunity for spiritual growth and cultural enrichment. Here, visitors can learn about the Protestant Reformation and ponder the life of Martin Luther. The town of Erfurt, for example, is home to the church where Luther struggled with theological demons. Nearby Wartburg Castle served as a hiding place for the Great Reformer after he posted his 95 Theses.
Other German towns and cities are home to many impressive and historic religious monuments, including the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary (Kirche Maria Geburt) in Bethlehem. The Wannenkapelle, a former concentration camp memorial, is another poignant destination for Christian pilgrims.
Although Germany’s Protestant population is large, the country also has a sizable number of Muslims and Jews. Some of these religious tourists are attracted to the country’s churches, mosques, and synagogues for their cultural and aesthetic value. Others, however, are looking to add a religious dimension to their travels and seek out tours that combine spirituality with cultural exploration. This type of organized travel is ideal for believers because it allows them to strengthen their beliefs in a beautiful and spiritual setting.
Europe & the Middle East
Whether they’re seeking a deeper connection with God, or simply looking to recharge their spirit, many travelers are turning to spiritual journeys. In fact, the latest 2023 travel trends show that interest in spirituality-themed trips is rising among younger generations. In particular, Gen Z and Millenials are more likely to be interested in spiritual travel than Baby Boomers or the Silent Generation.
In many cases, the best way to get the most out of your religious travel experience is to go with an organized pilgrimage tour. These tours offer all the logistical support you need so that you can focus on your faith and on soaking in the sights. Plus, they’re led by experienced guides who know the area’s rich history and can help you understand the significance of each place you visit.
Christian pilgrimages have been a popular tradition in Europe for centuries, giving believers an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ and other biblical figures. These trips can be the perfect way to refresh your mind, body, and soul, bringing you back home with a renewed sense of purpose.
In addition to guided visits to holy sites, faith-based tours can also include cultural experiences that will expand your understanding of the world’s religions. For example, a Spanish religious tour can take you to museums and palaces where masterpieces by masters like Velazquez and Picasso are displayed, while also providing opportunities to learn flamenco dance and immerse yourself in the local culture.
A spiritual trip to the Holy Land is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ and other biblical characters. It’s an unforgettable way to deepen your faith and connect with the past in a way that will change your life forever. With expert guides and carefully planned itineraries, these trips can provide a rich, rewarding, and transformative experience for anyone who’s ready to take the next step in their spiritual journey.
Asia
Asia is home to a stunning array of religious and spiritual destinations. Here, you’ll find a mystical balance of ancient temples and modern-day yoga retreats. From the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat to the sacred qi of Beijing, these spiritual Asian destinations offer a variety of ways for believers to find their enlightenment.
While many travelers visit Southeast Asia for a tropical escape, this region offers much more than waving palm trees and crystal seas. Here, you’ll also uncover a trove of ancient temples and monuments infused with rich religious history.
Whether it’s the sacred alms giving ceremony in Luang Prabang or a river cruise that takes you to Pak Ou caves set within extraordinary limestone cliffs, a spiritual journey through this timeless region will allow you to connect with the depth of this region’s culture and heritage.
The Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) is a group of churches and national Christian councils in Asia that share a common faith in Jesus Christ and a shared commitment to sharing the good news about him. Its goal is to “relate the common witness of the churches of Asia with the peoples, nations and religions of Asia in order to fulfill God’s purpose for Asia.”
As you delve into the traditions of Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal and Ladakh, you’ll discover that these regions hum with religious practice – Buddhist beliefs are interwoven into the fabric of their cultures. During our Spiritual Journeys in these ancient lands, you’ll be immersed in the warmth of the local people and learn how dharma continues to play an essential role as these societies move forward.
