“The Passion Play” July 2022 Holy Land Tour

TOUR DATES: July 18-30, 2022

(Petra, Jordan, Egypt Options thru Aug 6th)

Tour Director: Dr. Clark D. Anderson

Clark Anderson

Clark was born to a remarkable family of nine children and raised in Orem, Utah. His father Gary was a gifted religious educator at BYU and served as director of the BYU Study Abroad Program to the Middle East. Clark accompanied his father to the Holy Land on both semesters and was a student at the BYU Jerusalem Center in 1986. Clark received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from BYU and a Doctorate Degree from the University of Wyoming. His professional career includes 20 years as a Religious Educator and 12 years as an EFY (Especially for Youth) Speaker & Session Director. Clark started the family business of Anderson Tours 24 years ago. Clark is married to the impressive Heather Ballard and together they have ten children and six grandchildren.

Clark has over 40 years of travel experience and expertise. Over the past 25 years he has organized and directed over 70 educational tours around the world, including a group of the BYU-Idaho Religion Faculty. He also pioneered the youth group program in partnership with HEFY (Humanitarian Especially for Youth) for the creation of Youth Summit Jerusalem (YSJ) taking youth to Israel. In 2022 Clark initiated a new subsidized youth program called GATHER-NOW. Clark spent the summer of 2000 in Israel as a student at an Ulpan learning Hebrew. He also enjoys learning Arabic. With so many visits, he now claims the Middle East as his second home.

More than anything Clark enjoys being a husband, father, and grandpa to his grandchildren. Clark is a very optimistic person and enjoys good humor and adventure and also appreciates and utilizes music in all that he does. Clark is enthusiastic about learning and improving humanity and in being involved in the Gathering of Israel.

Early Registration for Passion Play

Price for “Passion Play” Option:  $1,500 (Includes 3 night’s deluxe Hotel, Play Tickets, in country transportation, 2 meals daily. Not included: international flight from USA to Germany, lunches)

*NOTE: Participation in the Passion Play requires early payment of that portion of the Tour ($1,500) due at the time of registration. Participation and payment of the Passion Play is non-refundable within 6 months of the performance (Feb 20, 2022)

Day 1-2 (Mon/Tues July 18—19, 2022):   FLY FROM USA to GERMANY

Today we fly from our home to Germany. When we arrive we will go directly to our hotel and sleep.

Day 3 (Wed July 20, 2022):   OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY 2022

Today we will enjoy participating in the historic and memorable Oberammergau Passion Play. The idea for this historic play began in 1633 in the midst of the Thirty Years’ War after months of suffering and dying from the plague. The people of Oberammergau pledged to act out the play of the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ once every 10 years. At Whitsun in 1634, the citizens of Oberammergau, Germany fulfilled their promise for the first time. By the middle of the 18th century, spectators from all over Germany came to Oberammergau attracted by the great power and atmosphere of the play. The year 2022 will see the 42nd installment of the play that the citizens of Oberammergau have maintained through the centuries with unique continuity. In a five-hour-performance, more than 2000 participants bring the story of Jesus of Nazareth to the impressive open-air stage of the Passion Play Theatre. Almost half of Oberammergau’s population will devotedly act out the story of the man whose tidings for more than 2000 years have brought hope and power of life to an incredible number of people. We overnight in the area.

Day 4 (Thurs July 21, 2022):   MUNICH / DACHAU / NEUSCHWANSTEIN CASTLE

Today we explore the Munich area. With a little hustle we hope to be able to visit both the somber site of Dachau and also the Neuschwanstein Castle. Both sites are impressive in their own right. We overnight in Munich.

Day 4 (Fri July 22, 2022):   FLY FROM GERMANY to Tel Aviv

Today we fly from Germany to TLV. When we arrive we will go directly to the Mount of Olives for a view of ‘the Golden City’. We overnight in Jerusalem where our hotel is only steps away from the Old City.

Price for Israel Tour:  $3,495 (flight from Germany included. Also included: hotels, in country transportation, entrance fees, and guides. Not included: lunches or flight from USA to Germany)

Experience Jerusalem, Israel and Palestine!

This experience is designed to provide an opportunity for Latter-day Saint youth to become acquainted with their spiritual roots by retracing the Life of Christ from pre-mortality, birth, youth, ministry, death, crucifixion, resurrection ending with the ascension.

We will have hands-on experience with the major religions of Judaism, Islam, & Christianity, as well as providing an understanding of current affairs in the Middle East including issues involving Israel, Palestinians, the West Bank, Syria, Isis, Jordan, Lebanon, the Gaza Strip, and Egypt. This experience is a multi-cultural, multi-country, multi-religious, historical and scriptural journey that spans a myriad of subjects, cultures, and experiences. It will also provide an up-close and personal look at the Life of Jesus Christ by visiting the significant sites in chronological order and exploring His teachings and interactions. Participants will gain a detailed view of His life as well as build a foundation of understanding of the Old Testament, Abrahamic Covenant, Tribes of Israel, Book of Mormon, Zion, the Temple, Armageddon, Second Coming, the Gathering of Israel and other Prophetic Priorities, and most importantly a focus on the Life, Ministry, & Atonement of Jesus Christ!

It will uniquely prepare youth to serve full-time missions, participate in the Gathering of Israel, enter the temple for the first time, and enhance their personal religious activities for the rest of their lives. Virtually every day has activities which will engage participants not only in educational forums but in fun and interactive ways applicable to their age. This is an active and interactive experience! Each day has adventure, activities, insight, perspective, Spirit, edification, application, and insight. Be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime!

Day 5 (Sat July 23, 2022):   JERUSALEM CENTER / MT OF OLIVES (BETHESDA)

This morning we enjoy Church Services at the remarkable BYU Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies. The view of Jerusalem during our Service is inspiring. On our way to lunch we will wander down the Mt. of Olives and pass thousands of Jewish graves, including those of the Biblical Prophets; Haggai, Zechariah, & Malachi. We make a brief stop at the ‘Teardrop Church’ and then enjoy lunch in a unique local place near the Old City. We will then visit St. Anne’s which is the ancient site for the Pool of Bethesda. As we make our way back to the hotel we will be introduced to the shopkeeper that makes LDS scripture covers, necklaces, etc. and after dinner those interested can peruse olive wood carvings from the olive wood factory in Bethlehem who supports 12 handicapped Christian families and have been making LDS Olive Wood pieces for years. We enjoy a relaxed evening and overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 6 (Sun July 24, 2022):  BEGINNINGS: BETHLEHEM / (TEMPLE MOUNT / MUSEUMS)

Our morning begins with a visit to the place where Jews believe is the Center of the Universe and where the Spirit of the Lord resides with a visit to the Tunnels at the Western Wall and the Temple Mount. We view the Dome of the Rock, the Wailing Wall, etc. and discuss the past, present and future of that significant site for all three major religions: Jews, Muslims, & Christians. Next we will visit the unique historical museums in Jerusalem. The Israeli Museum displays the Dead Sea Scrolls and also features the very impressive miniature model of the city of Jerusalem in Christ’s day; The Model City. We conclude our museum visits with the sobering Holocaust Museum, Yad Vashem. Time permitting we will enjoy the sights and sounds of Jerusalem by walking on the Old City Walls of Jerusalem on the Rampart. Next we will cross through ‘The Wall’ (20’ cement wall that separates Israel and Palestinian controlled land) and visit the traditional birthplace of the Savior in Bethlehem (Church of the Nativity). We conclude our day by visiting a local Shepherds’ Field near Bethlehem where we will review the account of the humble beginnings of the Saviors Life. In this setting we will review the Saviors Birth as well as consider Jesus as the ‘Good Shepherd’.  We again overnight in Jerusalem!

Day 7 (Mon July 25, 2022):  JESUS/MARY AS A TEENAGERS: NAZARETH (CAESAREA)

Today we consider Jesus and Mary during their teenage years as we visit Nazareth and the surrounding areas. We will drive up north and our first stop features the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and represents the spot where the first Gentile convert joined the Church and the Gospel spread to the world. Paul was imprisoned for 2 years here and also departed for his 4 historic missionary journeys. We will view the ancient theater and aqueducts before making our way north to Mount Carmel. On Mt. Carmel is a great view of the Jezreel Valley (Valley of Armageddon). From this vantage point we will discuss Armageddon, the 2nd Coming and the future of this Holy Land as well as reenact the remarkable story of Elijah and the Priests of Baal. Following lunch, near Carmel, we travel to Nazareth and from Mount Precipice we will have an amazing view of Nazareth and the surrounding area. We then drive around the Sea of Galilee to our Hotel. Checking into our Hotel this evening is a joy. Every room is only steps away from the shore of the Sea of Galilee. This evening you can enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening strolling on the Sea shores, or taking a dip in the Sea, etc.

Day 8 (Tues July 26, 2022): BEATITUDES / PETER’S PRIMACY / MAGDALA / YARDENIT

Today we spend our day seeing the sights and sounds surrounding the Sea of Galilee. We begin with a visit to a beautiful overlook of the Sea of Galilee on Mount Arbel. Next we visit the Mount of Beatitudes where the Sermon on the Mount was delivered. Lunch is a unique experience where those interested can enjoy St. Peter’s Fish. Next we visit Peter’s Primacy where we will discuss John 21. This afternoon we will visit Magdala (birthplace of Mary Magdalene) followed by Yardenit at the Jordan River (Jesus’ traditional baptismal site). We then drive around the Sea of Galilee to our Hotel. Checking into our Hotel this evening is a joy. Every room is only steps away from the shore of the Sea of Galilee. This evening you can enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening strolling on the Sea shores, or taking a dip in the Sea, etc.

Day 9 (Wed July 27, 2022): JESUS’ MINISTRY: SEA OF GALILEE / CAPERNAUM / DAN

Today we explore more of the Galilee area where Jesus spent the majority of His ministry as well as some other significant scriptural sites. Our first adventure of the day is boarding a small fishing boat and crossing the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum. On our way we cut the engines & have a short discussion. On shore we’ll visit the ancient site of Capernaum. Next we will drive to the very north border of Israel where we will look over into Lebanon and Syria. We will enjoy a short nature hike to view the ancient city and alter at Tel Dan. Our next stop is at Banias, the ancient site of Caesarea Philippi, where Peter was promised to receive the Keys of the Kingdom and is declares as ‘the Rock’. As we bus our way home we will travel on the Golan Heights where we can look over into Syria.

Day 10 (Thurs July 28, 2022): JESUS’ FINAL DAYS: BETHANY (LAZARU’S TOMB / DEAD SEA)

Today we visit and consider the events leading up to the death of the Savior and the final days of His mortal ministry. As we make our way back to Jerusalem we pass through the Green Line and parts of the West Bank andwill take this opportunity to discuss the current political situation, borders, and history. As we pass Bet She’an we will consider the ‘Fall of Saul’. We drive by Jericho and then make a stop at the Jordan River (Children of Israel River Crossing and Jesus’ baptismal site). Following lunch we will enjoy a quick visit to Qumran (discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls) and also have the unique experience of taking a float in the Dead Sea. You cannot sink! From here we make our way up to Jerusalem. We will visit Bethany and Lazarus’ Tomb and conclude our day with a unique walk through the flowing waters in Hezekiah’s Tunnel. We overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 11 (Fri July 29, 2022):    JESUS’ FINAL HOURS: (THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST!)

Today is one of our most significant as we venture through the wonders of the ‘Eternal City’ and retrace the events and sites of the final moments of the Saviors Life! We begin in the Upper Room where the Savior held the Last Supper. From here we trace His steps to the Garden of Gethsemane (Church of all Nations). We next visit Caiaphas’ Palace (St. Peter of Gallicantu) where Jesus went before the Sanhedrin and where Peter allegedly denied Christ thrice. Following lunch we enjoy a stop at the Antonio Fortress (Jesus before Pilate) and from here we will follow the Via Dolorosa (or Path of Suffering), the path Jesus carried His cross to Golgotha. Next we will reflect on the burial & resurrection of the Savior as we visit the two possible sites for Golgotha & Calvary. First we visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher [believed site for many Christians] and then the Garden Tomb [where others feel is the true site]. We will discuss the crucifixion and resurrection of the Savior and the majesty of the final moments of His mortal ministry! This evening those interested can attend a Jewish Synagogue worship service to bring in the Sabbath. We will enjoy our final evening at our hotel and overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 12 (Sat July 30, 2022):  MT OF OLIVES (ASCENSION)

Today we conclude our tour with one final visit to the Mount of Olives. On the Mt of Olives Jesus officially concluded His mortal ministry on that continent (Acts 1 – Christ’s Ascension) and fittingly we will also complete our visits here as well. Following our discussion the group will divide; those continuing on will head southward and cross the border into Jordan (see below). Those returning home will make their way to the airport in Tel Aviv and begin their journey home.

PETRA, JORDAN Option:  $880 (includes border taxes, hotels, transportation, guides—Not included; lunch)

Day 13 (Sat July 30, 2022): BOOK of MORMON BEGINNINGS: WILDERNESS (TIMNAH / PETRA)

Following our Mt of Olives visit those continuing on will depart Jerusalem and go “down by the borders near the shore of the Red Sea” (1 Nephi 2:5) just as Lehi and his family. As we do so we will be traveling on the road from “Jerusalem to Jericho” and will reflect on a certain parable (Luke 10). On the way we pass Qumran (discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls) and stop for a picture of the natural spring and waterfall at Ein-Gedi (where David hid from King Saul) and where we most always see ibex. We visit the majestic Masada and gondola to the top and reflect on its remarkable story. If possible we will enjoy a brief stop at Timnah where we will view a replica of the ancient Tabernacle built by Moses in the wilderness. We will also discuss Sodom & Gomorrah as we drive through that remains of those ancient cities. We cross the border and make our way up to the fascinating city of Petra, Jordan where we will overnight.

Day 13 (Sun July 31, 2022):    7 WONDER OF THE WORLD: PETRA, JORDAN (EGYPT)

This morning we explore Petra, one of the newly voted “7 Wonders of the World.” We will walk down the narrow canyon to the breathtaking view of the Treasury, Petra’s most famous landmark. You will have time to visit this fascinating city carved from the cliffs of the canyon and experience some of the best ruins found anywhere in the world. Petra was once a great commercial empire with a long history, it is best known today as the lost city in the Indiana Jones Movie, The Last Crusade. 

*Those not participating in the Egypt Option will take a shuttle up to the airport in Amman, Jordan and begin their journey home!

Those continuing on will cross 2 borders and make their way down to St. Catherine’s in Egypt. We will orient ourselves to our current surroundings (Red Sea) and review the account of the Exodus as we bus our way through the Sinai to our Hotel (Morganland Village) which is near the base of “Mt. Moses”. We will enjoy a relaxing evening reviewing the scriptural account of Moses and the Children of Israel in preparation for our climb up the ancient temple….Mt Sinai.

EGYPT Option: $2,183 (includes in country flights, hotels, guides, transportation, Entrance fees, border taxes—

Not included; lunches, international flight home from Cairo)

Day 14 (Mon Aug, 2022):   LIVING THE OLD TESTAMENT: (MT. SINAI / RED SEA)

We arise very early and enjoy a moonlight hike up Mount Sinai (Camels are available for those interested in the adventure). On top we will enjoy the sunrise and a very special meeting before making our descent. Once off the mountain we will bus our way to one of the very best locations for snorkeling and deep sea diving in the world…Sharm El Sheikh (Ras Mohammed). Arriving at this luxurious resort is a very welcomed experience following our early morning hike. We will enjoy all the amenities and comfort of this 5-star resort for the next day and a half. There will time for deep sea diving, snorkeling, swimming, reading, spa treatments, relaxing, etc. We overnight in Sharm.

Day 15 (Tues Aug 2, 2022):    RED SEA

This morning we will continue to enjoy the Red Sea. Those who desire can enjoy some of the world’s best snorkeling & deep sea diving and those who are not interested in getting in the water can relax at the resort hotel which has several beautiful pools, a lazy river, spa options, para-sailing, boat adventures, etc. This afternoon those interested can participate in a 4 wheeling experience in the Sinai desert. Other options include a visit to Naama Bay for some shopping and night life, or one can enjoy retiring early and other various options at the resort. We once again overnight in Sharm.

Day 16 (Wed Aug 3, 2022):    TEMPLES: (LUXOR & KARNAK)

This morning we take a short flight from Sharm to Luxor. We will first enjoy lunch and then begin our exploration of Luxor where over 60% of the world’s ancient ruins are located. Today we will explore the sites on the East Bank of the river Nile. Our first site is one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World and is also one of the largest temple structures in the world; the Karnak Temple. You will truly be amazed at this 64 acre temple. Following dinner we will enjoy an evening visit to the impressive Luxor Temple. These structures are amazing and must be seen to be believed. You might even enjoy these experiences more than the Pyramids in Cairo! We overnight in Luxor.

Day 17 (Thurs Aug 4, 2022):   PEARL OF GREAT PRICE: (VALLEY OF KINGS / TEMPLES)

This morning we will explore the sites on the West Bank where we will visit one of the most intriguing spots in the world; the “Valley of the Kings” (burial spot for the Egyptian Pharaohs & Queens). You will marvel at the similarities in ancient Egyptian and modern temples in beliefs and rituals! We will next take pictures of the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the Collosi of Memnon & Nobels as well as Pit Tomb #33 where the Book of Abraham in the Pearl of Great Price was discovered. We will next explore the Temple of Ramses III. Alabaster is mined near Luxor and we will visit a shop that specializes in hand carving alabaster items. This evening we will take a short flight to Cairo and overnight.

Day 18 (Fri Aug 5, 2022):   7 WONDER OF THE WORLD:  (PYRAMIDS & SPHINX)

Today we enjoy a full day touring the sites in Cairo! We begin with the splendor of the famous Pyramids & Sphinx. Those interested can go inside the Pyramid as well as take a camel ride (these have a small extra cost). From here we will make a visit to the Egyptian Museum and explore all the unique items there (including a Rosetta Stone replica and the opportunity to view real mummies as well as King Tut items). This afternoon we will visit one of the largest mosques in the world; the Mohamed Ali Mosque. This evening we will enjoy our ‘Last Supper’ together with a short program followed by a short rest in our hotel rooms before making our way to the airport to begin our journey home.

Day 19 (Sat Aug 6, 2022):   FLY HOME

Today we arrive at our homes and will be reunited with our loved ones!

COSTS AND DETAILS

This tour is geared for youth ages 16 to 18, however it is open to adults and other minors accompanied by their parents. High school students (age 16+) may attend this tour without a parent or guardian. Middle school students may only attend this tour with a parent or guardian. You do not need to be a student of Ensign Peak Academy to attend.

PRICE for Israel Portion: $3,495 per person double occupancy

[These prices include airfare from Germany to Tel Aviv, all visas, fuel surcharges, 2 meals daily, entrance fees and transportation, service materials and tools. Not included is airfare to & from USA to Tel Aviv or Munich]

DEPOSIT REQUIRED: $500 per person.

ROOMMATES: Those traveling solo may sign up for accommodations on a share basis and will be assigned roommates as circumstances permit. If a roommate is unavailable, the participant will be notified of the increased price prior to departure.

CANCELLATION FEES: $100 if you cancel within 60 days of departure. In addition, all cancellation charges imposed by airlines, hotels, vendors, operators, etc., will be passed on to the participant. (This applies to cancellation requests made by the attendee and not imposed by other entities because of travel restrictions due to health concerns or political unrest.)

TOUR INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:

  • First-class, top quality Tour with experienced Tour Directors
  • All airline travel mentioned in the program (which includes all 3 in country flights in Egypt but does NOT include the international flight from and to the USA). If you would like us to help you arrange your international flights to Munich or Tel Aviv we are happy to do so and it is a free service we provide. You can also include Travel Insurance in the price of the airline ticket. We can add the international flight to your total amount due.
  • Private, deluxe Air-Conditioned Motor Coach
  • Hotel Accommodations
  • Cold Bottled Water will be available for purchase on board bus
  • Two Meals Daily (breakfast and lunch or dinner) as indicated in the detailed itinerary
  • All Admission and Entrance Fees to sites specified in the itinerary
  • Country Visas, Airport as well as other Departure Taxes

REGISTRATION, DEPOSIT, PAYMENT, AND CANCELLATION:

Early reservations are strongly recommended, and a Deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 60 days prior to departure. Applications received after this date should include full payment. Any payments made after this date should also include also include full payment. Any payments made 30 days prior to departure must be in the form of a money order. Checks should be made payable to Anderson Tours. All cancellation penalties are the responsibility of the participant. Participation in the Passion Play portion of the tour has unique cancelation policy placed upon us by the Passion Play organizers. Any cancelations of the Passion Play portion of the tour ($1,500) within 6 months of the play will not be refundable.

Use this form to provide your information to us:

Lump Sum Payment Methods:

Price for Israel ONLY Tour: $3,127 (For those NOT going to Germany—Your Day 1 will be to depart on Thurs July 21st arriving into TLV on Friday July 22nd where you will meet the Germany group at the TLV airport on the afternoon)

OTHER ITEMS & DETAILS

Good Health is encouraged for our Israel Tours!

ITEMS NOT INCLUDED IN TOUR PRICE

  • Items of a personal nature, such as souvenirs
  • Excess baggage or portage charges
  • Personal, trip, or baggage insurance
  • Room service; laundry; phone charges
  • Food or beverages not part of the group menu (most lunches)
  • Gratuities for special services
  • Expenses incurred on personal activities not included where group participation is not specified in the itinerary

International flight to Tel Aviv is not included but we are more than able to assist in arranging flights.

CURRENT PASSPORT REQUIRED FOR THIS TOUR

A current passport is required for this tour and MUST BE VALID FOR 6 MONTHS AFTER YOUR TOUR. In other words if your Passport expires before Dec 2022 then you will need to apply for a new Passport. Let us know as soon as you have secured your passport and send a copy to clark@andersontours.com

Travelers’ Insurance

All tour participants are required to carry traveler’s insurance + COVID insurance. Both can be purchased by each individual, from Traverse Travel. Minimum required coverage is titled “Trip Protector Lite.” This minimum required policy covers medical expenses and lost baggage. It doesn’t cover the cost of the trip. If preferred, participants are welcome to purchase additional coverage. When booking your fight, please ask to speak to Winifred to assist you with the purchase of this insurance.

All travelers are also required to carry COVID quarantine insurance which is an additional cost. Please request this coverage from Winifred at the time you book your flight.

ROOMMATES: Those traveling without an adult or youth companion will be assigned roommates as circumstances permit. If a roommate is unavailable, the participant will be notified of the increased price for single supplement prior to departure.

GOOD HEALTH ENCOURAGED

Good health is encouraged for our Holy Land Tour! Eat your veggies and engage in regular physical activity for several weeks prior to the tour.

PRE-TOUR STUDY PREPARATION

If you would like to do some preparation for this tour, there is an excellent book that came out in the year 2000 in relation to the beginning of the new millennium. It is written by 3 Latter-day Saint scholars who have spent their life living in and studying the Holy Land. The book is, “Jerusalem the Eternal City” by David Galbraith, Kelly Odgen, & Andrew Skinner.

TOUR PARTICIPANT INFORMATION PACKET

Participants should carefully review the Holy Land Participant Information Packet.

The Holy Land Scripture Series

Understanding God, Scripture and Self

PART 1: THE FOUNDATION

Mentor: Dr. Clark D. Anderson

1-semester course, 0.5 credit, taught live 2nd semester, Wednesdays from 11:00 – 11:50 Mountain Time.

Note: This course is for high school students and adults. It is open to all.

Tuition: $185

Part I: THE FOUNDATION

In this course students embark on a scriptural journey through the most important doctrines and stories from the first 4,000 years of the earth’s spiritual history. It focuses on God’s interactions with His people from the beginning up to the New Testament. It is an easy to follow guide through the most important stories and doctrines that are essential to grasp in order to understand subsequent scripture and especially the important prophecies of the Last Days. This is part-1 of a 4-part series and this series will prepare us for the next course which deals specifically with the prophecies of the Last Days. It will build an essential foundation of knowledge to unlock other scriptures and will put you in a unique position to understand the Abrahamic Covenant, the House of Israel, the Gathering of Israel, the Temple Endowment, the Abomination of Desolation, prophecies of Isaiah and many other important doctrines. It is a spiritual and scriptural feast and fits in ideally with this year’s “Come, Follow Me” as well as what President Romney calls, “The most important knowledge in the Universe”.  

One of the biggest benefits of this class is that students will also enjoy the insights that come from a visit to Jerusalem and the Holy Land. This class also includes accompanying 360 video footage from the first ever Virtual Tour of the Holy Land with a Latter-day Saint perspective. It is ideal for those who would like to visit the Holy Land someday and also for those who know they will never get to go but would still like to benefit from the insights of a visit. It is also ideal for anyone who is experiencing a ‘Faith Crisis’ or are not quite sure what their personal belief is regarding God, Jesus, or organized religion. It is a course and a journey every human being should take. It is fun, interesting, insightful, inspirational, and important.

The overall objective in this series is to strengthen your relationship and understanding of God, the Scriptures, and in turn ourselves.

“Knowledge of ‘the only true God, and Jesus Christ’ (John 17:3) is the most important knowledge in the Universe…”  —President Marion G. Romney of the First Presidency (“Except a Man Be Born Again,” Ensign, Nov. 1981, 14)

FAQ

Is it safe? Safety is our number one objective. We have locals on the ground who keep us informed and up to date on any safety concerns in country that would affect our safety both while we are there and leading up to the tour. We will not go if it is unsafe and we will avoid any areas of concern or question. The Church and BYU have students living and studying in the Jerusalem Center and they feel comfortable having them there. They are very conservative and as long as they are there we feel confident being there as well.

Do I need any vaccines? At this time, the COVID vaccine is required to enter Israel. No other specific vaccines are required for visiting Israel. A test to insure that you do not have COVID is required within 72 hours of entering Israel.

What if I get sick or hurt? We have adult chaperones who can assist if anyone becomes ill on the trip. We will have access to hospitals and doctors if anything serious is needed. We can also arrange to have you transported home if needed.

Will I be able to use my cell phone? What do I need to do? Cell phone use will be limited during the touring day at the directors request but available in the evenings. Cell coverage and availability varies depending on your cell phone provider. T-Mobile customers are allowed free texting and 2G of data. Most other providers have a charge per text. Those with iPhones will be able to utilize Facetime and other communications means while connected to Wi-Fi at the hotels. If you need to use your cell phone during the tour you will need to contact your cell phone provider and inquire about international use with your individual plans. In some cases you can purchase an international plan for the time you will be in country.

Will I have access to Wi-Fi? Virtually every hotel we stay in will have Wi-Fi. It doesn’t always work efficiently or effectively, but it is available.

What will the lodging be like? Most of our hotels are 4 and 5 star hotels. Sometimes we use high quality hostels which can accommodate several in a room which is ideal for our youth groups.

What is the food like? The food is Middle Eastern and they use a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables. The eat a lot of chickpeas in their food; humus, falafel, etc. You can eat a cucumber or tomato at every meal if you so desire. Their dairy products are really great and their bread as well. (The ice cream is amazing as well!)

Will I be able to speak English? Virtually everyone we interact with will speak English. Language will not be an issue where we will be traveling.

Does the passport stamp provide a 90-day tourist visa? Israel is very unique in this regard as they do not provide a passport stamp upon entry into their country. Instead they provide a small piece of paper that serves as your visa and you are required to keep with you at all times while traveling in Israel.

What luggage can be taken? Airlines typically allow one 50 lb suitcase, one carry-on and a personal item per person. This should be sufficient for your needs.

Packing list? Check out this handy Checklist

What laundry facilities will be available? Washer and dryers are available to us while in the Galilee area, but not while in Jerusalem. Considering bringing a laundry soap bar, such as Fels-Naptha, in a small ziplock freezer bag.

What will the weather be like? We will be visiting in July and it will be hot! (Probably in the 90’s). We will need to hydrate and cold water will be available for purchase on the bus to help with this.

What is the dress code? All tour participants are required to adhere to the dress standards in For the Strength of Youth, which is part of the Ensign Peak Academy Honor Code. On the day we visit the Temple Mount we will need to be extremely modest with virtually no skin showing on the chest, arms, and legs. Scarfs for the ladies can be a helpful item to drape over your shoulders.

Is there a code of conduct? Yes, all participants are required to adhere to the Ensign Peak Academy Honor Code throughout the tour.