Greetings Footsteps Family!
As I mentioned earlier – I’m including a trip evaluation that will help me tremendously in planning future trips. This is the first time that I did not use a US Travel Agent – and I must say that even though it’s a lot more work, we had a much better trip doing it the way that we did.
Of the issues that I am aware of at this time – here’s my initial list of what works / what needs improvement, etc.:
What needs improvement:
• If at all possible, don’t travel through Madrid! What a nightmare going over and back through there. The extra security on the way home was so frustrating, as we’d already been screened in Athens. I also think that the airport personnel / baggage handlers were responsible for the bags that were lost on the way over and on the way back.
• I need to add $50 to the original ticket quote for our airline tickets – and then refund if we don’t need it. I didn’t like having to ask for the additional $38 to cover added fuel cost.
• It would be helpful to find a travel insurance company that would give us a group quote for future trips, so that we don’t have to research each policy separately.
• Even though I asked multiple times about having A/C as well as non-smoking rooms, I will need to include a line-item in my contract with the land operator that specifically guarantees us these amenities – with penalties if things are not in order as planned.
• If we provide the daypacks / drawstring bags, get some that are more substantial. I am sure that the reason they fell apart is that they were not designed for heavy objects – but that was not stated in their description. I apologize for the poor quality, but at $4 each, I guess we can’t expect much…
• Additional details:
What worked:
• Name badges with emergency contact info inside. Next time, I’ll also include a hotel list with phone numbers.
• Personalized luggage tags and specialized ribbon for everyone’s suitcases.
• Providing a specialized journal (thanks again, Vicki!!)
• Dale’s idea of the blog was awesome. It would be a great idea for future trips – to post the info I sent out along the way, etc. Next time, we can get people more involved earlier on – so we can get more bloggers.
• Additional details:
I would like to hear from each participant separately, if possible, instead of responding as a couple, family, etc. I think each individual has something unique to share and a unique perspective…
If you would prefer to respond anonymously, just print out the questions on a separate sheet and bring /mail it to the church
@ Frisco Bible Church; 8000 Sanctuary Dr.; Frisco, TX 75034
Thanks so much!!
Susan
Survey
1. Did you use the booklet that Wayne wrote to prepare for the trip? Did you bring it with you?
2. How did you grow spiritually?
3. What scriptural insights did you gain?
4. Did you enjoy the trip?
5. What would you change?
6. Do you feel that you got your money’s worth?
7. Considering the aggressive schedule, would you change anything? (Fewer days, fewer sites during the day, more free time, not start our day so early, etc.)?
8. Obviously, we couldn’t predict the heat wave, but would you have been open to travel during March / April to avoid some of the heat – even if it meant the possibility of more rain?
9. How would you rate the food?
10. How would you rate the buses?
11. How would you rate the cruise?
12. How would you rate the accommodations? Would you have been willing to pay more for even nicer accommodations, or do you prefer keeping the cost as low as possible as long as the accommodations are clean / safe with decent food, etc.?
13. How would you rate the info meetings?
14. Would you like to travel with All The Difference in the future?
15. If so, where would you like to go next? I have not done any extended planning – but I would like to know your thoughts on the following destinations. I had some initial thoughts on this, but the more I consider it, there’s so many options out there and they all sound great.
• Reformation Tour: Germany, France, & Switzerland
• British Reformation Tour: England / Scotland / Ireland
• Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice, Amalfi Coast, Pompeii
• Italy: Rome, Venice, Florence & Mediterranean Cruise
• The Exodus: Footsteps of Moses – Egypt / Jordan
• Israel / Jordan – including Jerash & Petra
• Egypt / Jordan – Cairo, Valley of the Kings, Alexandria, Luxor, Karnak with Petra
• Egypt / Cairo, Alexandria, Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Karnak, Goshen, Nile Cruise
• Trip + some kind of a 3-4 night cruise
• Cruise ONLY – such as a Mediterranean Cruise.
16. What is the ideal time of year you would like to travel? (Much will be determined by the destination)
17. What duration is your ideal trip?
18. Finally, are there any Saturdays in September that you are not available for a picture party / reunion?
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Monday, June 21, 2010
Opening up the blog
Now that we have returned from the trip, I would like to set up the blog as public so that anyone can look at it or post on it. Does anyone have any objections to doing that? If you have an objection, let me know by Wednesday, or I'll open up the blog on Thursday.
Thanks,
*Dale*
Thanks,
*Dale*
Welcome Home!!
Welcome Home!!
I just wanted to tell each of you how very special it was to travel with you. I was overwhelmed the last night with your thoughtfulness and generosity… thanks to everyone! It was truly an amazing thing to see our group do so well with time management, kindness, tolerance, and endurance – we had a very aggressive schedule and even I didn’t realize how hard the trip would be physically. The unseasonably hot weather combined with a plethora of hotels was taxing on even the most seasoned travelers – and you all did spectacular!! The next trip won’t be nearly as taxing – and I’ll be sure to schedule some more free time… however, we did cover a LOT of ground in two weeks!!
*I just noticed that Shirley is missing her bag - please let us know if you get your suitcase back!!!
As Wayne mentioned on the bus, we’ll be scheduling a reunion picture party in September – so if you’re traveling during that month, please let me know your schedule and we’ll do the best we can to schedule it during a time when the most people can join us.
I’ll be working on a feedback form and I’d appreciate your comments – I’ll try to send it out soon.
Hugs,
Susan
I just wanted to tell each of you how very special it was to travel with you. I was overwhelmed the last night with your thoughtfulness and generosity… thanks to everyone! It was truly an amazing thing to see our group do so well with time management, kindness, tolerance, and endurance – we had a very aggressive schedule and even I didn’t realize how hard the trip would be physically. The unseasonably hot weather combined with a plethora of hotels was taxing on even the most seasoned travelers – and you all did spectacular!! The next trip won’t be nearly as taxing – and I’ll be sure to schedule some more free time… however, we did cover a LOT of ground in two weeks!!
*I just noticed that Shirley is missing her bag - please let us know if you get your suitcase back!!!
As Wayne mentioned on the bus, we’ll be scheduling a reunion picture party in September – so if you’re traveling during that month, please let me know your schedule and we’ll do the best we can to schedule it during a time when the most people can join us.
I’ll be working on a feedback form and I’d appreciate your comments – I’ll try to send it out soon.
Hugs,
Susan
Just wanted to say what a marvelous trip this was, so beautifully organized by Susan Fletcher and I thank her very much. My memories are fantastic ones and I'll never forget them.
I also wanted to say that it appeared like I had packed for a year -- I had one big suitcase I checked and had a small roller suitcase and small bag for carry on. Unfortunately, my big suitcase I checked didn't make it back to Dallas at the end of the trip (better than at the beginning of the trip, that's for sure!). However, since I had my small bag and roller suitcase, I packed all the items like souvenirs, camera, jewelry -- anything of importance that I didn't want to lose from my wonderful trip. Just my clothes, shoes and a few toiletries were in the big suitcase. I desperately want them to find my suitcase, nobody wants to lose their clothing and go through all the hassle of replacing it. But, I'm so grateful I listened to my inner voice and dealt with my carryons and packed them accordingly.
That is my advice for you future travelers! NEVER put something you don't want to lose in your checked luggage if you can help it. They haven't located my suitcase yet, but I'm optimistic they will!!
I will miss my travel family, but I look forward to the reunion in September. Love you all.
Shirley
I also wanted to say that it appeared like I had packed for a year -- I had one big suitcase I checked and had a small roller suitcase and small bag for carry on. Unfortunately, my big suitcase I checked didn't make it back to Dallas at the end of the trip (better than at the beginning of the trip, that's for sure!). However, since I had my small bag and roller suitcase, I packed all the items like souvenirs, camera, jewelry -- anything of importance that I didn't want to lose from my wonderful trip. Just my clothes, shoes and a few toiletries were in the big suitcase. I desperately want them to find my suitcase, nobody wants to lose their clothing and go through all the hassle of replacing it. But, I'm so grateful I listened to my inner voice and dealt with my carryons and packed them accordingly.
That is my advice for you future travelers! NEVER put something you don't want to lose in your checked luggage if you can help it. They haven't located my suitcase yet, but I'm optimistic they will!!
I will miss my travel family, but I look forward to the reunion in September. Love you all.
Shirley
Sunday, June 20, 2010
We're home!
Arrived safely in DFW. I was one of the last people getting through customs, so by now everyone should be out and on their way to their DFW destinations.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Day 14 Sat Jun 19
Day Fourteen Saturday June 19th
Today we were on the bus at 8:00 and headed toward Corinth. This city is not too far from Athens, about an hour and a half via bus from our hotel. We saw the Corinth Canal, which is cut from the rocks, connecting the Aegan Sea with the Ionic (or Adriatic) Sea. This canal is 4 miles long, 290 feet deep, 78 feet wide, and the water is 28 feet deep. It was pretty impressive. Interesting fact is that there are bridges at both ends of the canal that are the opposite of draw bridges, instead of raising up, they lower down below the water allowing the boats to pass over them.
We stopped at the Canal for a rest break, then proceeded on to the Ancient Corinth. There was a nice museum at the location of the ancient Agora (marketplace) of Corinth. There was the Bema seat where the Jews brought Paul before Gallio in Acts 18:12-17.
Pastor Wayne did some teaching there from 1 Cor. Verse 3:11 and after talks about the Bema seat judgement and how all believers will be brought before the Bema seat by grace, while non-believers will appear before the Great White Throne judgement described in Revelation. Since we are saved by grace, we have an implied duty to live by grace. Everyone who is saved by faith is justified (v15) but what we have done with our lives (sanctified v12-14) will determine the rewards we have in heaven. Also in 1 Cor 6:19, Paul describes that our bodies are bought with the price of Jesus Christ, and so they are not our own, they are the temple of the Holy Spirit. This is very poignant here in Corinth, since there was so much immorality here, but it is also very convicting. One day we will stand in front of the Bema seat and God will judge how we spent our time, our energy, the blessings of health, and wealth, and wisdom that He has given us, and we will give an account of our actions. Pastor Wayne encouraged us to spend some time in prayer to seek God's wisdom on what kinds of changes we should make in our lives.
Tomorrow is a very early morning and a very long day. We will be getting our large luggage out of our rooms at 3:45 and on the bus at 4:30, so that we can make it to the airport in time. We fly for approximately 3 hours to Madrid, have a layover, and then another 10 hours to DFW, target time for arrival is 4:45, so with the 8 hour time change, that is a 20+ hour day, and that is just to DFW. We can certainly use prayers for safe travel and that nothing will go wrong.
This will probably be my last update till I get back to Texas. Hopefully I can post something Sunday evening to let everyone know about the flight back.
*Dale*
Today we were on the bus at 8:00 and headed toward Corinth. This city is not too far from Athens, about an hour and a half via bus from our hotel. We saw the Corinth Canal, which is cut from the rocks, connecting the Aegan Sea with the Ionic (or Adriatic) Sea. This canal is 4 miles long, 290 feet deep, 78 feet wide, and the water is 28 feet deep. It was pretty impressive. Interesting fact is that there are bridges at both ends of the canal that are the opposite of draw bridges, instead of raising up, they lower down below the water allowing the boats to pass over them.
We stopped at the Canal for a rest break, then proceeded on to the Ancient Corinth. There was a nice museum at the location of the ancient Agora (marketplace) of Corinth. There was the Bema seat where the Jews brought Paul before Gallio in Acts 18:12-17.
Pastor Wayne did some teaching there from 1 Cor. Verse 3:11 and after talks about the Bema seat judgement and how all believers will be brought before the Bema seat by grace, while non-believers will appear before the Great White Throne judgement described in Revelation. Since we are saved by grace, we have an implied duty to live by grace. Everyone who is saved by faith is justified (v15) but what we have done with our lives (sanctified v12-14) will determine the rewards we have in heaven. Also in 1 Cor 6:19, Paul describes that our bodies are bought with the price of Jesus Christ, and so they are not our own, they are the temple of the Holy Spirit. This is very poignant here in Corinth, since there was so much immorality here, but it is also very convicting. One day we will stand in front of the Bema seat and God will judge how we spent our time, our energy, the blessings of health, and wealth, and wisdom that He has given us, and we will give an account of our actions. Pastor Wayne encouraged us to spend some time in prayer to seek God's wisdom on what kinds of changes we should make in our lives.
Tomorrow is a very early morning and a very long day. We will be getting our large luggage out of our rooms at 3:45 and on the bus at 4:30, so that we can make it to the airport in time. We fly for approximately 3 hours to Madrid, have a layover, and then another 10 hours to DFW, target time for arrival is 4:45, so with the 8 hour time change, that is a 20+ hour day, and that is just to DFW. We can certainly use prayers for safe travel and that nothing will go wrong.
This will probably be my last update till I get back to Texas. Hopefully I can post something Sunday evening to let everyone know about the flight back.
*Dale*
Friday, June 18, 2010
Day 13 Fri Jun 18
Day Thirteen Friday June 18th
Today we had to be ready to leave the ship at 7:30. After waiting and going through customs, we finally were back with Aliki and in the tour bus at about 9:00. We headed to the Athens Acropolis.
The Acropolis is an amazing place. There are multiple structures:
1. a small temple to Athena Nike (currently under restoration) right at the gates
2. the Proylea - the gates themselves
3. the Parthenon
4. the Erechteaum (dedicated to Athena, Poseidon, and Erechtheus) with the Porch of the Caryatids (female figures as supporting columns).
After we spent some time on the Acropolis, we came down and visited the Areopagus, also known as Mars Hill. This is the location associated with Paul's speech in Acts 17, although we are not certain that is actually where it took place.
After that, we did some quick souvenir shopping and then headed to the Athens Agora (meeting place or market place). This is a huge place and we only had a few minutes here, but you could easily spend a half-day if not a full day.
We had a late lunch and then headed to the hotel to get checked in. We saw the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and several Neo-classical buildings on the way. After checking in at the hotel, about half of group went to the National Museum while the rest of us caught up on sleep.
Tomorrow: Corinth.
*Dale*
Today we had to be ready to leave the ship at 7:30. After waiting and going through customs, we finally were back with Aliki and in the tour bus at about 9:00. We headed to the Athens Acropolis.
The Acropolis is an amazing place. There are multiple structures:
1. a small temple to Athena Nike (currently under restoration) right at the gates
2. the Proylea - the gates themselves
3. the Parthenon
4. the Erechteaum (dedicated to Athena, Poseidon, and Erechtheus) with the Porch of the Caryatids (female figures as supporting columns).
After we spent some time on the Acropolis, we came down and visited the Areopagus, also known as Mars Hill. This is the location associated with Paul's speech in Acts 17, although we are not certain that is actually where it took place.
After that, we did some quick souvenir shopping and then headed to the Athens Agora (meeting place or market place). This is a huge place and we only had a few minutes here, but you could easily spend a half-day if not a full day.
We had a late lunch and then headed to the hotel to get checked in. We saw the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and several Neo-classical buildings on the way. After checking in at the hotel, about half of group went to the National Museum while the rest of us caught up on sleep.
Tomorrow: Corinth.
*Dale*
Day 12 Thu Jun 17
Day Twelve Thursday June 17th
A pretty hectic day. The cruise ship had arrived at Crete and we had to be ready to go on our Knossos Palace tour at 7:30. The tour was interesting but it was VERY hot out. The ruins of the Palace were noticeably older than the other ruins that we had seen. This is the place where the legend of the minotaur arose.
Interesting Bible tidbit: Crete was known in the ancient world for three primary things:
1. the legend of the god Zeus changing form into a bull in order to seduce Europa
2. the minotaur
3. King Midas (of the Golden Touch)
So when Paul writes in Titus 1:12-13 about the Cretans being "liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons" he is referencing these three myths, he is not making things up.
We did not have a long time at Knossos Palace, as we had to get back to the boat, which then sailed for Santorini. Santorini is a volcano that erupted many years ago, probably creating the legend of Atlantis; the explosion is estimated at 10 times the size of Krakatoa. The explosion left about a third of a circle as the only land above the Mediterranean. We arrived there, and had to take tender boats (or lighters) to shore. Some people were on a tour, others were on their own. The volcano caldera is one of the largest calderas in the world, and there is a goodly amount of land, which is very picturesque, with some very amazing scenery. The towns on Santorini are up on the cliff of the remaining land, and there were only a few ways up to them: be on the bus tour up, take the cable car up, ride donkeys up, or walk up.
On the bus tour, by the time we got to our destination in Oia Village, we had only about 30 minutes of free time to explore and take pictures, and then we had leave for Thira. By the time we reached Thira, we only had time to take a couple of pictures and then take the cable car down to the shore to take the tender boats back to the boat. Even with the short amount of time, the ship was still over an hour late departing Santorini. Basically, it was just crazy to try to do both Crete and Santorini in the same day.
After we got back to the boat, we had a short time with Pastor Wayne talking about Titus and how he had been a "guinea pig for grace" (Gal 2:1-9).
After that we had to pack and our large bags out of the room by midnight, with an early call to leave the ship in the morning.
*Dale*
A pretty hectic day. The cruise ship had arrived at Crete and we had to be ready to go on our Knossos Palace tour at 7:30. The tour was interesting but it was VERY hot out. The ruins of the Palace were noticeably older than the other ruins that we had seen. This is the place where the legend of the minotaur arose.
Interesting Bible tidbit: Crete was known in the ancient world for three primary things:
1. the legend of the god Zeus changing form into a bull in order to seduce Europa
2. the minotaur
3. King Midas (of the Golden Touch)
So when Paul writes in Titus 1:12-13 about the Cretans being "liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons" he is referencing these three myths, he is not making things up.
We did not have a long time at Knossos Palace, as we had to get back to the boat, which then sailed for Santorini. Santorini is a volcano that erupted many years ago, probably creating the legend of Atlantis; the explosion is estimated at 10 times the size of Krakatoa. The explosion left about a third of a circle as the only land above the Mediterranean. We arrived there, and had to take tender boats (or lighters) to shore. Some people were on a tour, others were on their own. The volcano caldera is one of the largest calderas in the world, and there is a goodly amount of land, which is very picturesque, with some very amazing scenery. The towns on Santorini are up on the cliff of the remaining land, and there were only a few ways up to them: be on the bus tour up, take the cable car up, ride donkeys up, or walk up.
On the bus tour, by the time we got to our destination in Oia Village, we had only about 30 minutes of free time to explore and take pictures, and then we had leave for Thira. By the time we reached Thira, we only had time to take a couple of pictures and then take the cable car down to the shore to take the tender boats back to the boat. Even with the short amount of time, the ship was still over an hour late departing Santorini. Basically, it was just crazy to try to do both Crete and Santorini in the same day.
After we got back to the boat, we had a short time with Pastor Wayne talking about Titus and how he had been a "guinea pig for grace" (Gal 2:1-9).
After that we had to pack and our large bags out of the room by midnight, with an early call to leave the ship in the morning.
*Dale*
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Day 11 Wed Jun 16
Day Eleven Wednesday June 16th
A catch-up, relaxing day. The cruise ship traveled overnight while we slept to the Island of Rhodes, which was very important as a shipping center in the Mediterranean Sea. Some people went on tours, some went with Pastor Wayne to the Museum, some wandered around the town on their own, and some stayed on the ship and relaxed.
I went with Pastor Wayne to the museum, where we found that it was much improved over seven years ago when Wayne was last there, but there were restrictions and he was not allowed to 'guide us' since he is not licensed here. So we all split up and went separate directions. I walked through the museum, then walked around a little bit of the town, picked up some items, had some ice cream, and came back to the ship to catch up on these notes. My plan is to go have lunch at a cafe that has free internet access and upload these notes.
Tonight we have to be back on board by 5:30 and the ship travels to Crete overnight.
Internet access is limited on-board, costly and slow. 0.25 Euros per minute, or 15 Euros per hour. Most people are just skipping it, but that' why I decided to go to the cafe.
*Dale*
A catch-up, relaxing day. The cruise ship traveled overnight while we slept to the Island of Rhodes, which was very important as a shipping center in the Mediterranean Sea. Some people went on tours, some went with Pastor Wayne to the Museum, some wandered around the town on their own, and some stayed on the ship and relaxed.
I went with Pastor Wayne to the museum, where we found that it was much improved over seven years ago when Wayne was last there, but there were restrictions and he was not allowed to 'guide us' since he is not licensed here. So we all split up and went separate directions. I walked through the museum, then walked around a little bit of the town, picked up some items, had some ice cream, and came back to the ship to catch up on these notes. My plan is to go have lunch at a cafe that has free internet access and upload these notes.
Tonight we have to be back on board by 5:30 and the ship travels to Crete overnight.
Internet access is limited on-board, costly and slow. 0.25 Euros per minute, or 15 Euros per hour. Most people are just skipping it, but that' why I decided to go to the cafe.
*Dale*
Day 10 Tue Jun 15
Day Ten Tuesday June 15th
On the bus at 7:00, headed to Ephesus.
Pastor Wayne taught in the Agora after walking thru most of Ephesus, which is a HUGE site.
Rev 2:2 Christianity is intolerant, not of other religions or prople, but of distortions of the truth. Jesus said that He was the is only way to God. We can test our conclusions against verifiable facts and feelings.
In Acts 19, the riot in Ephesus is described. Possibly started by the silversmiths in the audioreum (smaller than the theater, seats about 2000) and proceeded like a Greek soccer protest through the same streets that we walked down to the theater (which seats 25,000). Standing on those ancient streets, you could very well imagine a crowd going through the streets, chanting, gathering strength as it went along, and people getting swept up in it. Kind of a mass hypnosis effect.
In Ephesus, there were four statues to four gods -- wisdom, knowledge, fairness/justice, and virtue. The book of Ephesians goes through and shows Jesus superior to all of them.
Boarded the bus and drove to the port of Kusadasi and got there before 10:00. We went through customs and onto the cruise ship. We had a nice surprise in that Expedition Travel had provided a guide, Yanni, on the boat. He helped a lot, especially at Patmos dealing with the taxis.
At Patmos, the Grotto and the monastery built to honor John are at the top of a hill. There are tour buses, but we took taxis with four people each. Yanni negotiated a price of 25 Euros up and back. At the top, we sat in the shade on some stands while Pastor Wayne taught. He started in 2 Tim but I don't have the reference as I was slow to get started taking notes.
Ephesians 5-15-21 One of the great 'therefore' passages in the second half of Ephesians. "how you walk" means "how you live". In verse 18, "filled with the Spirit" means "controlled by" -- the more that you are controlled by the Spirit and by God, the more you can be yourself, not as your old flesh, but as a new creation in Jesus -- not dogs any more, but ducks, so quack.
Revelation 1:4-15 Verse 8 - Alpha and Omega -- Jesus is not only the Word, but He is the very letters of the word, from the first to the last. Verse 15 -- Many waters -- is a reference to Amos where he uses the term as a form of judgement. Verse 17 -- John, the apostle that knew Jesus so well that he leaned against him as a friend at the Last Supper, falls down "like a dead man" when he sees the glorified Jesus - Jesus is God. John knew how to balance the friendship with the worship and obedience that God requires. May We all learn to do this.
*Dale*
On the bus at 7:00, headed to Ephesus.
Pastor Wayne taught in the Agora after walking thru most of Ephesus, which is a HUGE site.
Rev 2:2 Christianity is intolerant, not of other religions or prople, but of distortions of the truth. Jesus said that He was the is only way to God. We can test our conclusions against verifiable facts and feelings.
In Acts 19, the riot in Ephesus is described. Possibly started by the silversmiths in the audioreum (smaller than the theater, seats about 2000) and proceeded like a Greek soccer protest through the same streets that we walked down to the theater (which seats 25,000). Standing on those ancient streets, you could very well imagine a crowd going through the streets, chanting, gathering strength as it went along, and people getting swept up in it. Kind of a mass hypnosis effect.
In Ephesus, there were four statues to four gods -- wisdom, knowledge, fairness/justice, and virtue. The book of Ephesians goes through and shows Jesus superior to all of them.
Boarded the bus and drove to the port of Kusadasi and got there before 10:00. We went through customs and onto the cruise ship. We had a nice surprise in that Expedition Travel had provided a guide, Yanni, on the boat. He helped a lot, especially at Patmos dealing with the taxis.
At Patmos, the Grotto and the monastery built to honor John are at the top of a hill. There are tour buses, but we took taxis with four people each. Yanni negotiated a price of 25 Euros up and back. At the top, we sat in the shade on some stands while Pastor Wayne taught. He started in 2 Tim but I don't have the reference as I was slow to get started taking notes.
Ephesians 5-15-21 One of the great 'therefore' passages in the second half of Ephesians. "how you walk" means "how you live". In verse 18, "filled with the Spirit" means "controlled by" -- the more that you are controlled by the Spirit and by God, the more you can be yourself, not as your old flesh, but as a new creation in Jesus -- not dogs any more, but ducks, so quack.
Revelation 1:4-15 Verse 8 - Alpha and Omega -- Jesus is not only the Word, but He is the very letters of the word, from the first to the last. Verse 15 -- Many waters -- is a reference to Amos where he uses the term as a form of judgement. Verse 17 -- John, the apostle that knew Jesus so well that he leaned against him as a friend at the Last Supper, falls down "like a dead man" when he sees the glorified Jesus - Jesus is God. John knew how to balance the friendship with the worship and obedience that God requires. May We all learn to do this.
*Dale*
Monday, June 14, 2010
Day 9 Mon Jun 14
Day Nine Monday June 14th
On the bus at 7:30. Today is the hottest and longest of the trip. We drove for a couple of hours and got some sleep/rest/catch-up on notes time. Stopped at a rest stop and then back on. Pastor Wayne teaching:
Laodecia was known for the hot and cold waters in the area. When John writes in Revelation that they are lukewarm, it is with this in mind.
Antikus the third, one of Alexendar the Great's generals was given the area around (will have to get later), and he moved several hundred Jewish families into the Lyodician region. Some (or a lot) of them came to faith in Jesus. Later they brought in Synchronisim, blending in three parts of other religions that don't make sense in Christianity:
1. Jewish legalism of Hebrews
2. Sophistry - arguing not for truth but to win the argument
3. Oriental mysticism
Colossians chapter three refutes this synchronicity by pointing back to Jesus:
v 9-10: Christ is all sufficient and at peace
v 11-17: Jesus (and those in Him) are exalted over legalism- we are better than that
v 18-19: Jesus is exalted over mysticism
v 20-21: Jesus is exalted over sophistry / aecestism (stoics)
20 minutes study time, read Col 2 and find applications for own life. examples:
Mysticism - horoscopes, control
Legalism - fasting, reading, studying, when it becomes 'have-to' to please God.
Aecetisism - business, CYA, do only what you have to do. Growing old gracefully. Easy to worship things (angels, crosses, icons)
Synchronized religions are like fancy cars with no tires. The rubber doesn't meet the road.
Don't do things and sprinkle a little Jesus on top.
We visited and then had lunch. Then we went a short distance away to Hieropolis
Afternoon session, after visiting Hieropolis -- Greek and Roman ruins, terrterine, pools.
Col 1:3-8 Epaphras.
Col 2:8 you have to start with God's grace (unmerited favor of God) Rom 3:23-25
Greek karis = graciousness. Only by putting faith in Jesus, can you receive karis.
We stayed overnight at the Hotel Aurora. Internet access was only in the lobby.
We join the cruise tomorrow. On the cruise, the internet is very slow and expensive. 0.25 Euro per minute, or 15 Euros per hour. No wireless is available. Most people will be staying off it, so you may not get updates as frequently.
*Dale*
On the bus at 7:30. Today is the hottest and longest of the trip. We drove for a couple of hours and got some sleep/rest/catch-up on notes time. Stopped at a rest stop and then back on. Pastor Wayne teaching:
Laodecia was known for the hot and cold waters in the area. When John writes in Revelation that they are lukewarm, it is with this in mind.
Antikus the third, one of Alexendar the Great's generals was given the area around (will have to get later), and he moved several hundred Jewish families into the Lyodician region. Some (or a lot) of them came to faith in Jesus. Later they brought in Synchronisim, blending in three parts of other religions that don't make sense in Christianity:
1. Jewish legalism of Hebrews
2. Sophistry - arguing not for truth but to win the argument
3. Oriental mysticism
Colossians chapter three refutes this synchronicity by pointing back to Jesus:
v 9-10: Christ is all sufficient and at peace
v 11-17: Jesus (and those in Him) are exalted over legalism- we are better than that
v 18-19: Jesus is exalted over mysticism
v 20-21: Jesus is exalted over sophistry / aecestism (stoics)
20 minutes study time, read Col 2 and find applications for own life. examples:
Mysticism - horoscopes, control
Legalism - fasting, reading, studying, when it becomes 'have-to' to please God.
Aecetisism - business, CYA, do only what you have to do. Growing old gracefully. Easy to worship things (angels, crosses, icons)
Synchronized religions are like fancy cars with no tires. The rubber doesn't meet the road.
Don't do things and sprinkle a little Jesus on top.
We visited and then had lunch. Then we went a short distance away to Hieropolis
Afternoon session, after visiting Hieropolis -- Greek and Roman ruins, terrterine, pools.
Col 1:3-8 Epaphras.
Col 2:8 you have to start with God's grace (unmerited favor of God) Rom 3:23-25
Greek karis = graciousness. Only by putting faith in Jesus, can you receive karis.
We stayed overnight at the Hotel Aurora. Internet access was only in the lobby.
We join the cruise tomorrow. On the cruise, the internet is very slow and expensive. 0.25 Euro per minute, or 15 Euros per hour. No wireless is available. Most people will be staying off it, so you may not get updates as frequently.
*Dale*
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Day 8 Sun Jun 13
Day Eight - Sunday June 13th
On the bus and leaving at 8:00. Today we had a worship service on the bus, with a short communion service. Pastor Wayne talked about Solomon and how in 1 Kings 3:4-9 he humbled himself before The Lord, and then The Lord rewarded him in v.10-15. We must remember where Solomon started. We have three enemies, the flesh, Satan, and the world. And we are not special (v. 3). But God (v. 4) has reached to us to build a bridge, a connection.
We drove for a couple of hours, had a break, had the worship service, drove some more while Pastor Wayne taught about Pergamon, which is mentioned in Revelations. Rev 1:19 is thought by some scholars to be the key to Revelation.
Ch 1 Jesus
Ch 2-3 things which are
Ch 4+ things to come
Preterist View of 2-3 thinks these chapters are future. Pastor Wayne does not agree, thinks it is bad history. However, it does possibly reveal great aspects of creation.
Rev 2:7 talks about the tree of life. He who overcomes is Jesus.
In Revelation, Satan implies Emperor worship.
Pergamon is in verses 12:12-17. Balaam is mentioned in 2 Peter. Another refence is Jude 11
Sword of the Spirit == Word of God
White stone -- how they voted (white/black) implies acquittal.
We had lunch at a carpet place. Some people bought some carpets.
Then we got to Pergamon and looked around that site.
Back to the bus, stopped at a jewelry place, and then to the hotel for dinner. Tomorrow is an early day with wake-up call at 6:00, breakfast at 6:30, and on the road at 7:30.
*Dale*
On the bus and leaving at 8:00. Today we had a worship service on the bus, with a short communion service. Pastor Wayne talked about Solomon and how in 1 Kings 3:4-9 he humbled himself before The Lord, and then The Lord rewarded him in v.10-15. We must remember where Solomon started. We have three enemies, the flesh, Satan, and the world. And we are not special (v. 3). But God (v. 4) has reached to us to build a bridge, a connection.
We drove for a couple of hours, had a break, had the worship service, drove some more while Pastor Wayne taught about Pergamon, which is mentioned in Revelations. Rev 1:19 is thought by some scholars to be the key to Revelation.
Ch 1 Jesus
Ch 2-3 things which are
Ch 4+ things to come
Preterist View of 2-3 thinks these chapters are future. Pastor Wayne does not agree, thinks it is bad history. However, it does possibly reveal great aspects of creation.
Rev 2:7 talks about the tree of life. He who overcomes is Jesus.
In Revelation, Satan implies Emperor worship.
Pergamon is in verses 12:12-17. Balaam is mentioned in 2 Peter. Another refence is Jude 11
Sword of the Spirit == Word of God
White stone -- how they voted (white/black) implies acquittal.
We had lunch at a carpet place. Some people bought some carpets.
Then we got to Pergamon and looked around that site.
Back to the bus, stopped at a jewelry place, and then to the hotel for dinner. Tomorrow is an early day with wake-up call at 6:00, breakfast at 6:30, and on the road at 7:30.
*Dale*
Day 7 Sat Jun 12
Day Seven - Saturday June 12
Today was travel for the first part, then seeing the city of Troy.
We got on the bus in Istanbul and traveled for a couple of hours to a rest stop, then back on the bus and another couple of hours till lunch. Lunch was right before we took a ferry across the Dardenelles.
We traveled for another hour or so, stopping at the ancient city of Troy, legendary from the stories of Homer of the Illiad and the Oddessey - the idea of a 10 year old battle between the Greeks and the Persians, over a woman named Helen, ending when the Greeks left a wooden horse and the Persians took it into their city. In the 1930's a German by the name of Schliemann was looking for Troy and found this Tel in the right place. He hired some Turkish workers and started excavating, and he found something. Schliemann was not the most careful archeologist, and what he discovered they later found to be the ruins of Troy II from 2500 BC. The city of Troy that Homer wrote about would have been Troy VI around 500 BC. In all, they have found nine distinct Troys, with some subdivisions within each one.
Day 7 teaching from Pastor Wayne was on the bus before Troy, giving us some history background on the people in this area that we are traveling through. Covering the period from 2000 BC (time of Abraham) to 1500 BC (time of Moses). The Old Babylonian empire was in decline. The Egytian empire was going strong. These times are called "Heroic" times because there is little hard evidence, but a lot of legends, which are generally based on some truth.
During this time, the Hittite people arose in present-day Turkey, and for a while they controlled the area at Jerusalem. We don't know a lot about them because of lack of records. There was also the Minoan culture on Crete, which apparently had a very strong navy because they did not build walls around their city. We don't know a whole lot about them because they wrote in a language we call Linear Script B, and we have not found a Rosetta stone to allow us to translate it. This time was also a rise of a people groups called Phoenician, which were active in the seas. The Phoenicians gave us the Western alphabet.
In the time around 1500 BC, several of these people groups were on the move. Not sure what the exact reason was, but there was some climate change in what is modern-day Russia, which forced some nomads further south.
(Notes below are a very raw. I'll come back and clean them up later.)
Sea Peoples - Achians, Tjtker (Mt. Carmel) - Preterset Philistines who settled in Gaza.
Began to attack and raid.
We know about them because they attacked Egypt under Ramses and he repelled them and put together a historical record of his victory.
Also the Hapiru - Hebrews.
Phtmos the 3rd ~1400 BC probably the pharaoh that God hit with the plagues.
Aichnaten - Pharaoh Queen was Nefritity
Power vacuum. Tell Amara Find
Lachish - write letters
Assyria - started in turkey
Nineva, Nimrod - conquered Israel
New Babyloian empire w/ Nebecanazer lasted only about 100 years.
Medes - mountain parts of Syria
Persians - plain parts of Syria
Gen 15:6 - Suzerante treaty -- God & Abraham
Leander and Troy
Gen 10, Exodus 13, Ezekial 28
Troas-Acts 16, Acts 20, 2 Tim 4
TEP Project - may have found Biblical Sodom in Jordan
Note: old books never make up geography.
Gen 10: list of people who are places 10:9-14
In the Pentatuch, there are very few value judgements, but Gen 10:9 Nimrod was a mighty hunter.
Nimrod: represents Babylon, the defiant human vs. Jerusalem, that represents peace and God's values.
Exodus 13:17 Philistines - who later became the Greeks who attacked Troy.
Where there is trade there is exchange of ideas.
Eze 28:5 greatest sarcastic line in the Bible - "By your wisdom"
Troas: Acts 16:7-11, 20:7, 2 Tim 4:13
*Dale*
Today was travel for the first part, then seeing the city of Troy.
We got on the bus in Istanbul and traveled for a couple of hours to a rest stop, then back on the bus and another couple of hours till lunch. Lunch was right before we took a ferry across the Dardenelles.
We traveled for another hour or so, stopping at the ancient city of Troy, legendary from the stories of Homer of the Illiad and the Oddessey - the idea of a 10 year old battle between the Greeks and the Persians, over a woman named Helen, ending when the Greeks left a wooden horse and the Persians took it into their city. In the 1930's a German by the name of Schliemann was looking for Troy and found this Tel in the right place. He hired some Turkish workers and started excavating, and he found something. Schliemann was not the most careful archeologist, and what he discovered they later found to be the ruins of Troy II from 2500 BC. The city of Troy that Homer wrote about would have been Troy VI around 500 BC. In all, they have found nine distinct Troys, with some subdivisions within each one.
Day 7 teaching from Pastor Wayne was on the bus before Troy, giving us some history background on the people in this area that we are traveling through. Covering the period from 2000 BC (time of Abraham) to 1500 BC (time of Moses). The Old Babylonian empire was in decline. The Egytian empire was going strong. These times are called "Heroic" times because there is little hard evidence, but a lot of legends, which are generally based on some truth.
During this time, the Hittite people arose in present-day Turkey, and for a while they controlled the area at Jerusalem. We don't know a lot about them because of lack of records. There was also the Minoan culture on Crete, which apparently had a very strong navy because they did not build walls around their city. We don't know a whole lot about them because they wrote in a language we call Linear Script B, and we have not found a Rosetta stone to allow us to translate it. This time was also a rise of a people groups called Phoenician, which were active in the seas. The Phoenicians gave us the Western alphabet.
In the time around 1500 BC, several of these people groups were on the move. Not sure what the exact reason was, but there was some climate change in what is modern-day Russia, which forced some nomads further south.
(Notes below are a very raw. I'll come back and clean them up later.)
Sea Peoples - Achians, Tjtker (Mt. Carmel) - Preterset Philistines who settled in Gaza.
Began to attack and raid.
We know about them because they attacked Egypt under Ramses and he repelled them and put together a historical record of his victory.
Also the Hapiru - Hebrews.
Phtmos the 3rd ~1400 BC probably the pharaoh that God hit with the plagues.
Aichnaten - Pharaoh Queen was Nefritity
Power vacuum. Tell Amara Find
Lachish - write letters
Assyria - started in turkey
Nineva, Nimrod - conquered Israel
New Babyloian empire w/ Nebecanazer lasted only about 100 years.
Medes - mountain parts of Syria
Persians - plain parts of Syria
Gen 15:6 - Suzerante treaty -- God & Abraham
Leander and Troy
Gen 10, Exodus 13, Ezekial 28
Troas-Acts 16, Acts 20, 2 Tim 4
TEP Project - may have found Biblical Sodom in Jordan
Note: old books never make up geography.
Gen 10: list of people who are places 10:9-14
In the Pentatuch, there are very few value judgements, but Gen 10:9 Nimrod was a mighty hunter.
Nimrod: represents Babylon, the defiant human vs. Jerusalem, that represents peace and God's values.
Exodus 13:17 Philistines - who later became the Greeks who attacked Troy.
Where there is trade there is exchange of ideas.
Eze 28:5 greatest sarcastic line in the Bible - "By your wisdom"
Troas: Acts 16:7-11, 20:7, 2 Tim 4:13
*Dale*
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Day 6 Fri Jun 11
Day Six - Friday June 11
Today we spent hitting the major sites in Istanbul. The majority of them are within walking distance of each other.
First stop, the Blue Mosque. First we looked at some monuments in the area outside of the Blue Mosque. This included several items
Hagia Sophia (St. Sophia)
Pastor Wayne teaching - in ~500 AD Emporer Justin made three important edicts/decisions:
1. He codified the various laws into a law code, which is still the basis for many laws today.
2. He struggled with the "nature of humans" - what is humanity?
3. What is the nature of Jesus?
We toured Hagia Sophia, had some free time to wander on our own, and then met up for lunch. Lunch was at a cafe a couple of blocks from Hagia Sophia.
After lunch, we walked about 5 minutes to the Topkapi Palace. This is the palace of the Ottoman Sultans, and was very opulent. We went through two archways, then a security checkpoint, and got into some massive garden grounds. On the grounds, we sat under some shade while Pastor Wayne taught about Logos - the Word. Scriptural references: Prov 30:5, 2 Cor 4:1-2. Wayne made the point that Constantine had 50 copies of the Bible made in 357 AD and this was the equivalent in today's dollars of the budget for establishing a local library such as Frisco Public Library. The next emporer after Constantine then established an edict that other items besides the Bible would be copied and stored, becoming a scriptorium of all knowledge. This was when books started becoming reference items instead of just reading items, and some brilliant guy had the idea to cut them into pages and bind them into books.
Pastor Wayne's best book in 2009: The Archimedes Codex.
After that, we had some free time to wander the Topkapi Palace. Rooms with Sultans's robes, crown jewels (including an 86 carat clear diamond), rooms with the Sultan's couches, etc.
From there, we got on the bus and drove to the Grand Bazaar. This is one of, if not the, world's oldest indoors mall, and also one of the largest. 4000 individual shops. A madhouse of humanity. We had about 30 minutes, and a few people bought some souvenirs.
Next we got back on the bus and headed to the waterfront where some of us took an hour-long cruise from the Golden Horn north along the European side of Istanbul into the narrows of the Bosphorus Straits, and back south along the Asian side of Istanbul. A nice relaxing time.
Back to the Hotel Feronya for dinner and packing.
*Dale*
Today we spent hitting the major sites in Istanbul. The majority of them are within walking distance of each other.
First stop, the Blue Mosque. First we looked at some monuments in the area outside of the Blue Mosque. This included several items
Hagia Sophia (St. Sophia)
Pastor Wayne teaching - in ~500 AD Emporer Justin made three important edicts/decisions:
1. He codified the various laws into a law code, which is still the basis for many laws today.
2. He struggled with the "nature of humans" - what is humanity?
3. What is the nature of Jesus?
We toured Hagia Sophia, had some free time to wander on our own, and then met up for lunch. Lunch was at a cafe a couple of blocks from Hagia Sophia.
After lunch, we walked about 5 minutes to the Topkapi Palace. This is the palace of the Ottoman Sultans, and was very opulent. We went through two archways, then a security checkpoint, and got into some massive garden grounds. On the grounds, we sat under some shade while Pastor Wayne taught about Logos - the Word. Scriptural references: Prov 30:5, 2 Cor 4:1-2. Wayne made the point that Constantine had 50 copies of the Bible made in 357 AD and this was the equivalent in today's dollars of the budget for establishing a local library such as Frisco Public Library. The next emporer after Constantine then established an edict that other items besides the Bible would be copied and stored, becoming a scriptorium of all knowledge. This was when books started becoming reference items instead of just reading items, and some brilliant guy had the idea to cut them into pages and bind them into books.
Pastor Wayne's best book in 2009: The Archimedes Codex.
After that, we had some free time to wander the Topkapi Palace. Rooms with Sultans's robes, crown jewels (including an 86 carat clear diamond), rooms with the Sultan's couches, etc.
From there, we got on the bus and drove to the Grand Bazaar. This is one of, if not the, world's oldest indoors mall, and also one of the largest. 4000 individual shops. A madhouse of humanity. We had about 30 minutes, and a few people bought some souvenirs.
Next we got back on the bus and headed to the waterfront where some of us took an hour-long cruise from the Golden Horn north along the European side of Istanbul into the narrows of the Bosphorus Straits, and back south along the Asian side of Istanbul. A nice relaxing time.
Back to the Hotel Feronya for dinner and packing.
*Dale*
Friday, June 11, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Enjoying all of the Biblical teachings and history lessons. I am amazed at the knowledge locked inside Pastor Wayne and Aliki (our Greecian tour guide). My memory is not that functional! Also, I'm having a great time seeing the countryside (and cities) and getting a better cultural grasp on how things were centuries ago.
I've taken thousands of photos so far because there are just so many things to capture. Trying to figure out a way to share without posting one by one. This is one of my favorites. It was taken in Kavala.
Chris and Hannah's Tour Using Pictures
Ok... decided to put up some quick dumps of the photos so far. Hopefully nothing embarrassing. Go to picture sets here and keep coming back, I'll try to keep adding to it.
Day 5 Thu Jun 10
Day Five - Thursday June 10th - on the Via Egnatia headed to Turkey
Today was basically a travel day on the bus to get from Kavala to Istanbul. On the bus and started out at 8:00.
We went through the borders (customs) and had lunch on the Turkey side. Got into Istanbul in time for some bad traffic jams. When to the Grand Bazaar to a carpet place that the Stuckeys knew about 5:00 and saw the presentation of the carpets. Then we got to the hotel about 7:45, had dinner, and hit the end of the day.
On the bus today, Pastor Wayne taught on Acts 17:17 "Paul reasoned with them". There were three major prerequisites for the spread of the Gospel: 1. Language 2. Roads 3. Reasoning approach.
1. The universality of Greek in the first century provides a common language for the spread of the Gospel. 2. The Roman Road system provided a easy way for the physical spread of the people and the letters. 3. The reasoning approach was added by Democritus, possibly the world's first scientist, who argued that if your only knowledge comes from your five senses, then that knowledge is subjective and incomplete. The way to get to genuine knowledge is taking the observed data and reasoning through it - you have to THINK about it, and think critically. Democritus used the term inductive reasoning, possibly the first person to do so.
This brings up the question of absolute truth. Those that say "there is no absolute truth" have just made an absolute statement. Obviously there IS an absolute truth, and God is it. Just like in Bible study, there are multiple observations, but only a single correct interpretation - one answer that is right (like algebra or geometry). After you get to the correct answer, there are then multiple correlations and applications.
Later on, Pastor Wayne gave some history in regards to to brothers from Thessaloniki, Cyril and Methodius. These were geniuses especially around language in the ninth century. These brothers were very infuential in the development of world events - Cyril invented Russian (Cyrillic), for instance, and is probably a big reason why the Russians adopted the Orthodox church.
*Dale*
Today was basically a travel day on the bus to get from Kavala to Istanbul. On the bus and started out at 8:00.
We went through the borders (customs) and had lunch on the Turkey side. Got into Istanbul in time for some bad traffic jams. When to the Grand Bazaar to a carpet place that the Stuckeys knew about 5:00 and saw the presentation of the carpets. Then we got to the hotel about 7:45, had dinner, and hit the end of the day.
On the bus today, Pastor Wayne taught on Acts 17:17 "Paul reasoned with them". There were three major prerequisites for the spread of the Gospel: 1. Language 2. Roads 3. Reasoning approach.
1. The universality of Greek in the first century provides a common language for the spread of the Gospel. 2. The Roman Road system provided a easy way for the physical spread of the people and the letters. 3. The reasoning approach was added by Democritus, possibly the world's first scientist, who argued that if your only knowledge comes from your five senses, then that knowledge is subjective and incomplete. The way to get to genuine knowledge is taking the observed data and reasoning through it - you have to THINK about it, and think critically. Democritus used the term inductive reasoning, possibly the first person to do so.
This brings up the question of absolute truth. Those that say "there is no absolute truth" have just made an absolute statement. Obviously there IS an absolute truth, and God is it. Just like in Bible study, there are multiple observations, but only a single correct interpretation - one answer that is right (like algebra or geometry). After you get to the correct answer, there are then multiple correlations and applications.
Later on, Pastor Wayne gave some history in regards to to brothers from Thessaloniki, Cyril and Methodius. These were geniuses especially around language in the ninth century. These brothers were very infuential in the development of world events - Cyril invented Russian (Cyrillic), for instance, and is probably a big reason why the Russians adopted the Orthodox church.
*Dale*
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Day 4 Wed Jun 9
Day Four - Wednesday June 9th
Checking out of hotel. Up and our bags out the door at 7:30 with us getting breakfast starting at 7:00 and then we're on the bus and moving at 8:30. Today we are headed to the area of Philippi and Kavala (Neopolis). We travel east on the New Via Egnatia, the replacement for the Roman Road in this area.
We rode on the bus for about an hour, maybe a little longer, and got to the area of Amfipolis (Amphipolos). There is a landmark, the 'Lion of Amphipolis" that we stopped at. Pastor Wayne made the point that this was a critical place controlling East/West trade and movement, and yet the scriptures (Acts 17:1) indicate that Paul and his companions did not spend much time here - the question then becomes "why not?" There are no really good answers, but the best one that fits is found in 1 Cor 1:26-29, key verse: "but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong". We got some good group pictures at this site.
After the Lion, we made an unplanned stop at the Acropolis of Amfipolis. We wondered around the grounds and ruins of five basilicas and a hexagonal church. Lots of good pictures.
Back on the bus at 11:20 and headed for Kavala, which is on the ocean. Most of us had lunch at a nice fish restaurant which was across the street from the Northern Aegean Sea. Everyone commented on how good the food was, lots of fish was consumed.
After lunch, back on the bus at 1:50 and headed to the area of Philippi. This is a bit north (20 minutes) of Kavala. Acts 16:9-40 describes Paul's time in the Philippi area, the conversion and baptism of Lydia, the arrest and imprisonment, and the miracle with the prison being opened. We looked at the Theather that Philip II built after he took over the city and renamed it after himself while our guide Aliki told us about the area and the site. Aliki mentioned that after the Romans took over this area, that they turned the Theater into a colleseum, and that it was likely that Chirstians were martyred here.
We walked a few minutes and got under some shade while Pastor Wayne taught from Acts 16, and compared Lydia (the first European gentile convert to Chritianity) and the jailer. He mentioned that there are three aspects to salvation: 1. Justification, 2: Santification, and 3: Glorification. Many of the questions around salvation can be answered by looking carefully at which of these three the passage is speaking about. Justification is the process of being made right with God, and that only happens "by faith alone, through Jesus Christ alone, by God's grace alone". This happens when we believe in Jesus and cannot be lost. Santification is the process of becoming more like God, and this is what we are called to work on. Glorification is what happens when we get our heavenly bodies and is obviously in the future. Pastor Wayne also talked about baptism, which means "identify with". When we are baptized, we are identifying with Christ. When Christ was baptized, He was identifying with John's message "repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand".
We then walked around and saw the "Prison of Paul". While we cannot be sure, this could be the site where Paul was imprisoned in Acts 17:22-30 and the jailer was saved.
We then looked at the ruins of the Forum of Philippi (which the French had excavated) and the Octagonal Church (which the Greek had excavated). While looking at the Octagonal Church, a short but heavy rainstorm came up and we spent more time there. We also saw a baptistry in the form of a cross. We had some time to explore on our own and then get back to the bus at 4:45.
From there, we went to the small town of Lydia which was only a couple of minutes away from the ruins at Philippi. This is the legendary site of the baptism of Lydia (Acts 16:14-15). We stopped and three of our members were baptized there: Janet Reeves, Kyle Johnson, and Michelle Johnson. (No relation between Kyle and Michelle.)
After the baptism, we got back to the bus, and headed back to Kavala where we checked into the Oceanis Hotel about 6:00. This hotel is not as nice as the Capsis in Thessaloniki, the elevators are tiny (five people max), the showers are over narrow tubs (too narrow for me to have my feet perpendicular to the length), and the A/C was not on until about 8:30, and it never did get the room too cool.
Tomorrow we have to have our bags out for pickup at 7:00, breakfast at 7:00, and meet at the bus at 7:45. As it is now 45 minutes past midnight, this is going to be a short night for me, but it feels good to get caught up with the journal. Now I just have the task of getting the pictures added, but that's a goal for tomorrow. Goodnight.
*Dale*
Checking out of hotel. Up and our bags out the door at 7:30 with us getting breakfast starting at 7:00 and then we're on the bus and moving at 8:30. Today we are headed to the area of Philippi and Kavala (Neopolis). We travel east on the New Via Egnatia, the replacement for the Roman Road in this area.
We rode on the bus for about an hour, maybe a little longer, and got to the area of Amfipolis (Amphipolos). There is a landmark, the 'Lion of Amphipolis" that we stopped at. Pastor Wayne made the point that this was a critical place controlling East/West trade and movement, and yet the scriptures (Acts 17:1) indicate that Paul and his companions did not spend much time here - the question then becomes "why not?" There are no really good answers, but the best one that fits is found in 1 Cor 1:26-29, key verse: "but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong". We got some good group pictures at this site.
After the Lion, we made an unplanned stop at the Acropolis of Amfipolis. We wondered around the grounds and ruins of five basilicas and a hexagonal church. Lots of good pictures.
Back on the bus at 11:20 and headed for Kavala, which is on the ocean. Most of us had lunch at a nice fish restaurant which was across the street from the Northern Aegean Sea. Everyone commented on how good the food was, lots of fish was consumed.
After lunch, back on the bus at 1:50 and headed to the area of Philippi. This is a bit north (20 minutes) of Kavala. Acts 16:9-40 describes Paul's time in the Philippi area, the conversion and baptism of Lydia, the arrest and imprisonment, and the miracle with the prison being opened. We looked at the Theather that Philip II built after he took over the city and renamed it after himself while our guide Aliki told us about the area and the site. Aliki mentioned that after the Romans took over this area, that they turned the Theater into a colleseum, and that it was likely that Chirstians were martyred here.
We walked a few minutes and got under some shade while Pastor Wayne taught from Acts 16, and compared Lydia (the first European gentile convert to Chritianity) and the jailer. He mentioned that there are three aspects to salvation: 1. Justification, 2: Santification, and 3: Glorification. Many of the questions around salvation can be answered by looking carefully at which of these three the passage is speaking about. Justification is the process of being made right with God, and that only happens "by faith alone, through Jesus Christ alone, by God's grace alone". This happens when we believe in Jesus and cannot be lost. Santification is the process of becoming more like God, and this is what we are called to work on. Glorification is what happens when we get our heavenly bodies and is obviously in the future. Pastor Wayne also talked about baptism, which means "identify with". When we are baptized, we are identifying with Christ. When Christ was baptized, He was identifying with John's message "repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand".
We then walked around and saw the "Prison of Paul". While we cannot be sure, this could be the site where Paul was imprisoned in Acts 17:22-30 and the jailer was saved.
We then looked at the ruins of the Forum of Philippi (which the French had excavated) and the Octagonal Church (which the Greek had excavated). While looking at the Octagonal Church, a short but heavy rainstorm came up and we spent more time there. We also saw a baptistry in the form of a cross. We had some time to explore on our own and then get back to the bus at 4:45.
From there, we went to the small town of Lydia which was only a couple of minutes away from the ruins at Philippi. This is the legendary site of the baptism of Lydia (Acts 16:14-15). We stopped and three of our members were baptized there: Janet Reeves, Kyle Johnson, and Michelle Johnson. (No relation between Kyle and Michelle.)
After the baptism, we got back to the bus, and headed back to Kavala where we checked into the Oceanis Hotel about 6:00. This hotel is not as nice as the Capsis in Thessaloniki, the elevators are tiny (five people max), the showers are over narrow tubs (too narrow for me to have my feet perpendicular to the length), and the A/C was not on until about 8:30, and it never did get the room too cool.
Tomorrow we have to have our bags out for pickup at 7:00, breakfast at 7:00, and meet at the bus at 7:45. As it is now 45 minutes past midnight, this is going to be a short night for me, but it feels good to get caught up with the journal. Now I just have the task of getting the pictures added, but that's a goal for tomorrow. Goodnight.
*Dale*
Day 3 Part 2 Tue Jun 8
(This is a continuation of the Day 3 info.)
On the way to the second stop, we glimpsed the Roman Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda from the bus. These are relatively famous landmarks in Thessaloniki, but we did not stop and view them.
Second stop at about 10:00 - The White Tower. This is the most famous landmark in Thessaloniki, close to the waterfront. Built by the Ottomans sometime shortly after 1430, it replaced an older Byzantine tower which dated to the 12th century. The tower was part of the walls of the old city of Thessaloniki, standing at the corner of the East wall and the Southern (sea) wall.
Back on the bus at 10:25 and off to our next stop. On the way, we pass the Tower of Telecommunication, which has on it's upper level a coffee shop inside a round disc. This rotates one full revolution in 60 minutes.
Our destination is the Church of Saint Sophia (divine wisdom). This is more of a traditional basilica with 3 aisles, but it is a transitional building because it has a dome, which regular basilicas do not have. Built in possibly late seventh but more probably early to mid eight century. The decorations (frescos & icons) are from the ninth century. We were not allowed to take pictures there plus we were on a short time frame.
Back on the bus at 11:10 and off to our next stop, the Acropolis of Thessaloniki. Acropolis is the highest part of any city. We saw the best section of preserved walls on the way, which is a section of the East Wall. Arriving at the Acropolis, we had a great view of the city, took some pictures, and had a short break at a coffee shop.
Back on the bus at about 12:00 and off to our next stop, in Vergina. We drove west for about 45 minutes on the new Via Eganitia, which is a new toll road built along the old Roman Road which Paul used. Pastor Wayne used this time to have us examine Acts 17:1-9 and apply the Biblical study principles of: 1. Observation, 2. Interpretation, 3. Correlation, 4. Application. We stopped at a nice place in Vergina for lunch.
After lunch, we walked about three or four minutes to the Tombs of Vergina. A professor of history in Athens worked to excavate a Tel (mound or small hill) which was in Vergina, because the Vergina area was known to be the burial sites for the royal family of Macedonia. He found lots of common burial plots, but he also found four tombs which appeared to be associated with royalty. Two of the tombs had been plundered, and very little was found. The other two tombs were royal, and because of several clues, it is believed that one of the tombs was of Phillip II, father of Alexander the Great, and the other tomb was of a Young Prince, thought to be Alexander the Fourth, son of Alexander the Great. These tombs were not disturbed, and had lots of great treasures -- lots of gold in forms of crowns, necklaces, burial chests, jewelry, and gilding on other items. Also armor, weapons, and other artifacts. Some good frescos on the insides and outsides of the tombs. Phillip's tomb had lots of marble ot the entrance, the doors, threshold, and entrance area. This is important because the marble is not native to the area of Vergina, and had to be imported. Phillip's tomb also had a second room where the remains of a woman, thought to be Kleopatra (not the Egyptian) who was assassinated immediately after her husband.
Back to the bus at about 2:45/3:00 and over to Veria (ancient Beroea). This is the place referenced in Acts 17:10-15. There was a nice memorial there that commemorated Paul's preaching. We took some pictures and examined Acts 17:10-15 for a few minutes. Then we returned to the bus and back to the Capsis Hotel in Thessaloniki about 5:30. Some people explored/walked the area of Thessaloniki, I took a swim in the hotel pool which was on the roof. We had dinner at the hotel at 7:45, packed, and got ready for the next day. We had to have the luggage which is to be packed on the bus out in the halls at 7:30, and have our 'carry-on' and be ready to go at 8:15.
*Dale*
On the way to the second stop, we glimpsed the Roman Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda from the bus. These are relatively famous landmarks in Thessaloniki, but we did not stop and view them.
Second stop at about 10:00 - The White Tower. This is the most famous landmark in Thessaloniki, close to the waterfront. Built by the Ottomans sometime shortly after 1430, it replaced an older Byzantine tower which dated to the 12th century. The tower was part of the walls of the old city of Thessaloniki, standing at the corner of the East wall and the Southern (sea) wall.
Back on the bus at 10:25 and off to our next stop. On the way, we pass the Tower of Telecommunication, which has on it's upper level a coffee shop inside a round disc. This rotates one full revolution in 60 minutes.
Our destination is the Church of Saint Sophia (divine wisdom). This is more of a traditional basilica with 3 aisles, but it is a transitional building because it has a dome, which regular basilicas do not have. Built in possibly late seventh but more probably early to mid eight century. The decorations (frescos & icons) are from the ninth century. We were not allowed to take pictures there plus we were on a short time frame.
Back on the bus at 11:10 and off to our next stop, the Acropolis of Thessaloniki. Acropolis is the highest part of any city. We saw the best section of preserved walls on the way, which is a section of the East Wall. Arriving at the Acropolis, we had a great view of the city, took some pictures, and had a short break at a coffee shop.
Back on the bus at about 12:00 and off to our next stop, in Vergina. We drove west for about 45 minutes on the new Via Eganitia, which is a new toll road built along the old Roman Road which Paul used. Pastor Wayne used this time to have us examine Acts 17:1-9 and apply the Biblical study principles of: 1. Observation, 2. Interpretation, 3. Correlation, 4. Application. We stopped at a nice place in Vergina for lunch.
After lunch, we walked about three or four minutes to the Tombs of Vergina. A professor of history in Athens worked to excavate a Tel (mound or small hill) which was in Vergina, because the Vergina area was known to be the burial sites for the royal family of Macedonia. He found lots of common burial plots, but he also found four tombs which appeared to be associated with royalty. Two of the tombs had been plundered, and very little was found. The other two tombs were royal, and because of several clues, it is believed that one of the tombs was of Phillip II, father of Alexander the Great, and the other tomb was of a Young Prince, thought to be Alexander the Fourth, son of Alexander the Great. These tombs were not disturbed, and had lots of great treasures -- lots of gold in forms of crowns, necklaces, burial chests, jewelry, and gilding on other items. Also armor, weapons, and other artifacts. Some good frescos on the insides and outsides of the tombs. Phillip's tomb had lots of marble ot the entrance, the doors, threshold, and entrance area. This is important because the marble is not native to the area of Vergina, and had to be imported. Phillip's tomb also had a second room where the remains of a woman, thought to be Kleopatra (not the Egyptian) who was assassinated immediately after her husband.
Back to the bus at about 2:45/3:00 and over to Veria (ancient Beroea). This is the place referenced in Acts 17:10-15. There was a nice memorial there that commemorated Paul's preaching. We took some pictures and examined Acts 17:10-15 for a few minutes. Then we returned to the bus and back to the Capsis Hotel in Thessaloniki about 5:30. Some people explored/walked the area of Thessaloniki, I took a swim in the hotel pool which was on the roof. We had dinner at the hotel at 7:45, packed, and got ready for the next day. We had to have the luggage which is to be packed on the bus out in the halls at 7:30, and have our 'carry-on' and be ready to go at 8:15.
*Dale*
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Day 3 part 1 Tue Jun 8
Day Three - Tuesday June 8th - this is the first day of sight-seeing. We did a lot today, and I'm going to break up my report into a couple of sections so that I don't overwhelm one post. This is the first of all of them.
We started out with buffet breakfast at the hotel and then on the bus by 8:30.
First stop was the Basilica of Saint Demetrius. Pastor Wayne remarked about how this location was close to Jason's house (Acts 17:5-9). Paul was staying at Jason's house, which implies that Jason was a convert, and his act of putting up a pledge (17:9) means that he took a big financial hit to protect Paul and his people. Pastor Wayne made the observation that Jason is a transitional person, that he draws together the Hebrew and Greek thought.
Hebrew thought: Rule of God's Law plus principle of Voluntary Surrender
Greek thought: Rule of Human Law plus principle of Mistrust of the 'Too Popular'
This greek principal of mistrust of those 'too popular' is probably the main reason why the riot in Thessaloniki occured. May we be more like Jason, other-centered, humble, and
For the actual church, it was built in ~450 AD and is larger and grander than most Basilicas. Most Basilicas have three aisles, each separated by columns of pillars. The church of St. Demetrius has five aisles plus a final sixth aisle that runs at 90 degrees to the other aisles, which when seen from above forms a cross.
Built in ~450 AD, it is still in active use today. The major fire in the city of Thessaloniki in 1917 which destroyed the majority of the city did extensive damage to St. Demetrius, completely demolishing the roof. There was some restoration over the years, but then a major restoration in the 1960's. When you look at the outside of the building, you can see the original walls, which look like they have very random material, as opposed to the reconstructed walls which have square bricks and square blocks of cement.
The church of St. Demetrius was named in honor of Demetrius, who was martyred in 303 AD. He was a military man, and was executed with spears. Legend has it that Leo the Governor of the area was cured of a disease by Demetrius and after he was martyred, Leo paid for the construction of the Basilica. Demetrius's tomb was originally below the church in the 'basement' but was moved and is now inside the church.
We got to spend about an hour at the site and listen to Aliki our tour guide describe the various pieces, functions, and backgrounds. We also got to take pictures but unfortunately I haven't figured out how to post them from my iPad. Pastor Wayne also did some great teaching but I'm going to put that in a separate post.
After Saint Demetrius, we walked down a small hill and across a street and spent just a few minutes looking over an agora, which would have been the old central marketplace of Thessoloniki. It is almost a certainty that Paul preached in this Agora. Although what we were looking was actually Roman age material, built on top of the Greek Agora, so the name would be more properly said as Forum instead of Agora. After a few pictures, we headed back to the bus and off to our next stop, the White Tower - see the next post.
*Dale*
We started out with buffet breakfast at the hotel and then on the bus by 8:30.
First stop was the Basilica of Saint Demetrius. Pastor Wayne remarked about how this location was close to Jason's house (Acts 17:5-9). Paul was staying at Jason's house, which implies that Jason was a convert, and his act of putting up a pledge (17:9) means that he took a big financial hit to protect Paul and his people. Pastor Wayne made the observation that Jason is a transitional person, that he draws together the Hebrew and Greek thought.
Hebrew thought: Rule of God's Law plus principle of Voluntary Surrender
Greek thought: Rule of Human Law plus principle of Mistrust of the 'Too Popular'
This greek principal of mistrust of those 'too popular' is probably the main reason why the riot in Thessaloniki occured. May we be more like Jason, other-centered, humble, and
For the actual church, it was built in ~450 AD and is larger and grander than most Basilicas. Most Basilicas have three aisles, each separated by columns of pillars. The church of St. Demetrius has five aisles plus a final sixth aisle that runs at 90 degrees to the other aisles, which when seen from above forms a cross.
Built in ~450 AD, it is still in active use today. The major fire in the city of Thessaloniki in 1917 which destroyed the majority of the city did extensive damage to St. Demetrius, completely demolishing the roof. There was some restoration over the years, but then a major restoration in the 1960's. When you look at the outside of the building, you can see the original walls, which look like they have very random material, as opposed to the reconstructed walls which have square bricks and square blocks of cement.
The church of St. Demetrius was named in honor of Demetrius, who was martyred in 303 AD. He was a military man, and was executed with spears. Legend has it that Leo the Governor of the area was cured of a disease by Demetrius and after he was martyred, Leo paid for the construction of the Basilica. Demetrius's tomb was originally below the church in the 'basement' but was moved and is now inside the church.
We got to spend about an hour at the site and listen to Aliki our tour guide describe the various pieces, functions, and backgrounds. We also got to take pictures but unfortunately I haven't figured out how to post them from my iPad. Pastor Wayne also did some great teaching but I'm going to put that in a separate post.
After Saint Demetrius, we walked down a small hill and across a street and spent just a few minutes looking over an agora, which would have been the old central marketplace of Thessoloniki. It is almost a certainty that Paul preached in this Agora. Although what we were looking was actually Roman age material, built on top of the Greek Agora, so the name would be more properly said as Forum instead of Agora. After a few pictures, we headed back to the bus and off to our next stop, the White Tower - see the next post.
*Dale*
Day 2 Technical Difficulties
I had lots of problems getting on the Internet from my iPad in the airports and at the hotel. This happened at DFW, Athens, and the hotel Capsis. The symptom is that the iPad would appear to connect but would hang on the login screen. I tried resetting the network, powering down (by holding the top button until the power-off slider, and then sliding), and finally a hard boot (by holding top and center button). After the hard boot, I found that there should have been a pop-up screen that was not coming up to remember the login info. Once I got past that screen, things worked better, but the Internet signal was weak at the 'desk' area. I moved over to the bed and things worked MUCH better.
The other thing I forgot was to reset the time manually on the iPad and the camera.
Update at end of Day 3: Well, the iPad was having problems again tonight. I found a setting for "save usernames and passwords" and turned that off and bingo I was on no problem. Let's see if it stays fixed...
The other thing I forgot was to reset the time manually on the iPad and the camera.
Update at end of Day 3: Well, the iPad was having problems again tonight. I found a setting for "save usernames and passwords" and turned that off and bingo I was on no problem. Let's see if it stays fixed...
White Tower, Walls of Byzatine, Church of St. Demetrius, Church of St. Sophia (Divine Wisdom), Tomb of Peter II in Verina (Aiges), Paul/Berea
Like the subject says... LOTS of things to see...
But Hannah got sick while we were at the North wall. Was sick for a good portion of the day.
Pics are just from the Basilica of St. Demetrius.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Days 1 and 2 - trip to Thessonoliki
Things were mostly smooth. Customs surprised me, we went through customs in Madrid even though we did not have our checked bags. Then we had to go through security to make the flight to Athens. NOt a very long wait.
The layover at Athens was a bit longer. Picked up our checked luggage. Found that the Richardson's and the Folkmeyer's luggage made it to Spain but not to Athens. It will follow us later.
We met our tour guide, Aliki, and Spyros our bus driver when we got to Thessonolili. They will be taking good care of us. On the bus on the way to the hotel we ran into a large group of soccer fans protesting the fact that their team was being changed into a different league. We had to wait for about 10 minutes while they moved across the street.
Hotel Capsis is very nice, the rooms are probably typical for Europe, a bit small by American standards.
*Dale*
The layover at Athens was a bit longer. Picked up our checked luggage. Found that the Richardson's and the Folkmeyer's luggage made it to Spain but not to Athens. It will follow us later.
We met our tour guide, Aliki, and Spyros our bus driver when we got to Thessonolili. They will be taking good care of us. On the bus on the way to the hotel we ran into a large group of soccer fans protesting the fact that their team was being changed into a different league. We had to wait for about 10 minutes while they moved across the street.
Hotel Capsis is very nice, the rooms are probably typical for Europe, a bit small by American standards.
*Dale*
First night in Greece - We're all safe!
Just a brief note to let everyone know we all arrived in Thessonoliki safely. There were 2 sets of bags that did not come with us from Spain to Athens, but they are supposed to arrive today.
It was a long, wearying day, but wwe survived and got a late dinner and some sleep. We're now about to go down to breakfast and start the day. God is good!
*Dale*
It was a long, wearying day, but wwe survived and got a late dinner and some sleep. We're now about to go down to breakfast and start the day. God is good!
*Dale*
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Breathe in, Breathe Out....
As the clothes are still drying to be packed (yes, I realize it is the actual morning of the day we're leaving - that's how I roll ;-), I'm wondering how God will use these two weeks to change my life and the lives of all of us going on this trip. I am looking forward to making new friendships, bonding with my sister, leaving Frisco, and learning more about Paul and his journey. And I hope my son misses me just a tiny fraction of the huge amount I will miss him during this time.
Here's to all of us! Cheers!
Here's to all of us! Cheers!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Still NOT packed!!
Sigh.... finishing up some work. Aack... busy... busy... busy...
My brain is mush....
My brain is mush....
Friday, June 4, 2010
Credit Cards
I got all the banks called last night about the credit cards. I found out an interesting fact: all my cards charge a 3% "Foreign Transaction Fee" on charges made overseas! Wow! I'm glad I found out about that, I will not use my cards as much because of that.
Another interesting thing: on my ATM/debit card, there is "only" a 1% Foreign Transaction Fee. I guess that will be my primary card on the trip, but I will still use it sparingly.
Praying for safe travels for us all!
Another interesting thing: on my ATM/debit card, there is "only" a 1% Foreign Transaction Fee. I guess that will be my primary card on the trip, but I will still use it sparingly.
Praying for safe travels for us all!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Getting ready
Scanned and printed passports (copies).
Printed flight itinerary (Hannah and I, copies).
Fanny pack... worn underneath the belt... will server as money belt like thing.
Hat (need to get Hannah similar hat).
Busy, busy, busy... I may totally "veg" on this trip. I've heard that lots of folks on this trip are feeling some stress right now.... praying for rest.
Printed flight itinerary (Hannah and I, copies).
Fanny pack... worn underneath the belt... will server as money belt like thing.
Hat (need to get Hannah similar hat).
Busy, busy, busy... I may totally "veg" on this trip. I've heard that lots of folks on this trip are feeling some stress right now.... praying for rest.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Cruise: Glamour Nights
Phyllis and I are taking one dressy outfit to wear on the cruise. I realize most won't do this, but we like to dress up and since the cruise line mentions dressy attire, we are going to join in. We just wanted to let others know in case they wanted to do the same thing but were reluctant to do it. You won't be alone. Vicki, we know you will be dressed up regardless.
In HIS Grip,
Schuyler and Phyllis
In HIS Grip,
Schuyler and Phyllis
Footsteps: Journal / Booklet Available
Greetings Again!
I am writing this time with a special offer.
Our wonderful Church Administrator, Vicki Nix, has been working diligently to put together a 180 pg. booklet / journal that contains all of her research regarding the sites that we will be visiting on our trip. She has included photos, details, and journal entry blank areas which will be perfect for taking notes along the way. *For those that do not know Vicki, she is also a very gifted teacher – and is currently leading a Precept study on the end times.
Vicki had originally begun this booklet for her own use, but she has graciously decided to offer it to the rest of us as well. However, due to the length of it (approx. 180 pages) and color photos, she needs to collect the cost for the printing costs – expected to be between $8-10 each. She is also going to purchase the plastic spines so that the book will lay open, etc.
This is a tremendous service to our group and Vicki is not profiting from the sale / printing of the books – the cost is a reflection of the cost to print them. If you choose to purchase a book (or books, if you want a personal journal), I am sure that you will see the benefit and hard work that has gone into their preparation. I am truly thankful for all that Vicki has done, and for making them available to the rest of us!
If you would like to reserve a book, Vicki will be printing them and bringing them to the airport for distribution there. I have set the “reply” button in this e-mail to also include Vicki in your response – so please respond ASAP in order to reserve your copy. Also, please plan on bringing the money with you to the airport (or if you prefer, you may arrange with Vicki if you’d like to come by the church to pick it up – IF they are ready prior to Sunday).
Blessings,
Susan
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Pastor Wayne has kindly allowed us access to his "Footsteps of Paul - A Personal Journey" booklet. I have uploaded it to the web site. You probably want the page by page PDF file, which is still 2+ MB in size (i.e. pretty large) - if you have a slow internet connection, this might take a while to download...
Booklet pages in order in PDF format.
If for some reason you need to reprint the booklet, then this next version has the booklet in the order that you can print double-sided and bind them into an actual booklet form.
Booklet in PDF format.
Thanks to Pastor Wayne for sharing this information with us!
*Dale*
Booklet pages in order in PDF format.
If for some reason you need to reprint the booklet, then this next version has the booklet in the order that you can print double-sided and bind them into an actual booklet form.
Booklet in PDF format.
Thanks to Pastor Wayne for sharing this information with us!
*Dale*
Cruise Information and details (from Susan)
Greetings Travelers!
Hopefully, you’re not overwhelmed with these updates – just thought you’d want to know these details… I’m sure that you are already aware, but we are boarding the ship in Ephesus – which is one day after the ship leaves from Athens. We planned it this way so that we could work our way back from Turkey through the Greek Isles and end our journey in Athens, where we will tour on land the last 2 days. (So, don’t be confused by the fact that Mykonos is on the itinerary for the first day – we are not going to Mykonos… no worries – Santorini is even MORE beautiful!!).
I did find out which ship we will be on today… it’s the Aquamarine J.
I also noticed that the page I had printed was not coming up with the link properly, so hopefully this should answer all of your questions. http://louisgroup.3dpages.net/daycruises09/en/index2.html. The last 2 pages are the pages that I printed ( but they printed at such poor quality, it was hard to read). I’ve put the important info below – so let me know if you have any other questions.
I would not worry about the “formal” nights on the cruise ship. We will all be together – so don’t feel like you need to dress up. We all have to pack for 2 weeks, and it’s just not necessary to be that formal. You will be in good company if you stick to the Country Club Casual. However, you might want to consider taking something for “Greek Night” – when it is suggested that we wear blue and white.
What to Pack
Day wear:
During summer casual light-weight resort wear, including light cotton clothing, swimwear and a beach robe are recommended. Swimsuits are not allowed in the restaurants, shorts or Bermuda shorts are acceptable at lunch time only. If you wish to have lunch in your swim attire you can enjoy a buffet meal on deck. Tennis shoes or low heeled walking shoes are most suitable for exploring the ports of call. In case of a cool breeze or unexpected shower a light jacket or sweater is recommended. A hat and sunglasses are always recommended. Binoculars will be a great asset to your enjoyment whilst at sea and during the excursions while we also suggest you have your camera ready at all times. When visiting places of worship, shorts are not allowed and shoulders should be covered.
Evening wear:
The shipboard daily program will inform you of the evening (after 6.00 p.m.) dress code on board. The majority of evenings on board are country club casual. Greek night; wear blue and white which are the colours of Greece.
Dress guidelines:
Casual night - Country club casual clothing; we want you to feel comfortable and relaxed. Formal – Gentlemen we suggest suit & tie and the ladies cocktail dress or pant suit for nights of glamour!
During summer casual light-weight resort wear, including light cotton clothing, swimwear and a beach robe are recommended. Swimsuits are not allowed in the restaurants, shorts or Bermuda shorts are acceptable at lunch time only. If you wish to have lunch in your swim attire you can enjoy a buffet meal on deck. Tennis shoes or low heeled walking shoes are most suitable for exploring the ports of call. In case of a cool breeze or unexpected shower a light jacket or sweater is recommended. A hat and sunglasses are always recommended. Binoculars will be a great asset to your enjoyment whilst at sea and during the excursions while we also suggest you have your camera ready at all times. When visiting places of worship, shorts are not allowed and shoulders should be covered.
Evening wear:
The shipboard daily program will inform you of the evening (after 6.00 p.m.) dress code on board. The majority of evenings on board are country club casual. Greek night; wear blue and white which are the colours of Greece.
Dress guidelines:
Casual night - Country club casual clothing; we want you to feel comfortable and relaxed. Formal – Gentlemen we suggest suit & tie and the ladies cocktail dress or pant suit for nights of glamour!
On Board
Personal Expenses:
The currency on board is the Euro. For your convenience the vessels operate a cashless system. Your personal embarkation card allows you to charge to your shipboard account almost everything on board, including shore excursions, gift shop purchases, wine and bar bills, spa and beauty salon, photos, cabin service, in fact everything except transactions made at the Casino. Upon embarkation you should contact the Guest Relations desk in order to activate your personal account. We recommend all credit card holders to register their card to settle their account, as this will assist them in a smooth disembarkation (checkout), avoiding delays. We accept American Express, MasterCard and Visa. Debit cards or personal cheques are not accepted. For those passengers not wishing to pay by credit card payment can be made in cash or Travelers' cheques. On the last day of your cruise an itemized invoice with all expenses shall be delivered to your cabin. Note: All expenses incurred on the last day of your cruise will be paid in cash.
Gratuities: I have already collected $10 USD per day as recommended by our tour operator, Expedition & Travel. I will visit Guest Relations upon boarding the ship and put this on each of your accounts for your cabin. I will also explain to them that no additional gratuities should be charged to your cabins. If you want to do more for your cabin steward or anyone else, that is up to you.
For your convenience and as practiced on most ships, your shipboard account will be debited with the customary gratuities for services rendered on board. The suggested amounts are: Euros 8 per person per day for all passengers over 16 years old and Euro 4 per person per day for children and teenagers (6-16 years). Should you wish to adjust the amount or make any change whatsoever to this charge please contact the Guest Relations personnel.
The currency on board is the Euro. For your convenience the vessels operate a cashless system. Your personal embarkation card allows you to charge to your shipboard account almost everything on board, including shore excursions, gift shop purchases, wine and bar bills, spa and beauty salon, photos, cabin service, in fact everything except transactions made at the Casino. Upon embarkation you should contact the Guest Relations desk in order to activate your personal account. We recommend all credit card holders to register their card to settle their account, as this will assist them in a smooth disembarkation (checkout), avoiding delays. We accept American Express, MasterCard and Visa. Debit cards or personal cheques are not accepted. For those passengers not wishing to pay by credit card payment can be made in cash or Travelers' cheques. On the last day of your cruise an itemized invoice with all expenses shall be delivered to your cabin. Note: All expenses incurred on the last day of your cruise will be paid in cash.
Gratuities: I have already collected $10 USD per day as recommended by our tour operator, Expedition & Travel. I will visit Guest Relations upon boarding the ship and put this on each of your accounts for your cabin. I will also explain to them that no additional gratuities should be charged to your cabins. If you want to do more for your cabin steward or anyone else, that is up to you.
For your convenience and as practiced on most ships, your shipboard account will be debited with the customary gratuities for services rendered on board. The suggested amounts are: Euros 8 per person per day for all passengers over 16 years old and Euro 4 per person per day for children and teenagers (6-16 years). Should you wish to adjust the amount or make any change whatsoever to this charge please contact the Guest Relations personnel.
Luggage assistance: (*no tip is required)
Your luggage will be delivered outside your cabin door. Please allow a maximum of two hours for delivery. If you have not received your luggage within this time period, or if you have not indicated the cabin number on your luggage, please speak with our Guest Relations personnel.
Dining Room Reservations: *Expedition & Travel has already requested the LATE seating for us – to maximize our time ashore.
Upon embarkation, the Maitre d'Hotel will take your dining room reservation and assign your table giving you a card with the seating (Main or late) and the table number. Generally there are two seatings on most evenings main and late. At some ports of call we have open seating. In order to ensure the seating you prefer, it is advisable to make your request in writing prior to your cruise via your travel agent or to the following email paxserv@louiscruises.gr . On certain evenings we also have buffet dinner on the open deck. (Weather permitting). For dinner, we kindly ask you to respect the opening hours of the restaurant and note that the Dining room doors close 15 minutes after commencement of the service. Smoking is not permitted in the Dining Room.
Valuables:
Safety boxes for your valuable items, jewelry, money and documents are available on board all our ships either in the cabin or at the Pursers Office. There is a nominal charge. The company is not responsible for any theft or loss of any items not kept in the safety boxes. The company does not accept responsibility for loss or theft of cameras, video cameras, chargers and other valuable items which are your responsibility at all times. Our liability is limited by the Athens Convention as per the carriers' conditions of carriage.
Your luggage will be delivered outside your cabin door. Please allow a maximum of two hours for delivery. If you have not received your luggage within this time period, or if you have not indicated the cabin number on your luggage, please speak with our Guest Relations personnel.
Dining Room Reservations: *Expedition & Travel has already requested the LATE seating for us – to maximize our time ashore.
Upon embarkation, the Maitre d'Hotel will take your dining room reservation and assign your table giving you a card with the seating (Main or late) and the table number. Generally there are two seatings on most evenings main and late. At some ports of call we have open seating. In order to ensure the seating you prefer, it is advisable to make your request in writing prior to your cruise via your travel agent or to the following email paxserv@louiscruises.gr . On certain evenings we also have buffet dinner on the open deck. (Weather permitting). For dinner, we kindly ask you to respect the opening hours of the restaurant and note that the Dining room doors close 15 minutes after commencement of the service. Smoking is not permitted in the Dining Room.
Valuables:
Safety boxes for your valuable items, jewelry, money and documents are available on board all our ships either in the cabin or at the Pursers Office. There is a nominal charge. The company is not responsible for any theft or loss of any items not kept in the safety boxes. The company does not accept responsibility for loss or theft of cameras, video cameras, chargers and other valuable items which are your responsibility at all times. Our liability is limited by the Athens Convention as per the carriers' conditions of carriage.
For your information
Daily Program:
Each evening, a program detailing the following day's activities will be delivered to your cabin. This will include arrival and departure times, excursion departure times, social activities, meal times, opening hours of the on board services, evening dress code and other useful information. Please read it carefully.
Guest Relations Office:
Our on board personnel will be pleased to help you and answer all your questions. The Guest Relations Office is open 24 hours a day.
Electric Current:
The current on board our vessels varies: 110v AC or 220v AC. Please remember to bring an international transformer as sockets often vary from standard sockets ashore. Check our website for each ships particulars www.louiscruises.com
Smoking policy:
Smoking is prohibited in all areas except one designated lounge (usually the casino) and also the open decks. Passengers are requested not to smoke in their cabins.
Laundry and pressing:
A laundry and pressing service is available on board our vessels. Complete the form, place the clothing in the laundry bag provided, your cabin steward will do the rest. Your on board account will be charged accordingly.
Pool towels:
Cabin personnel will provide you with sufficient towels, which will be replaced as required. Passengers are kindly requested to return the used towels back to the cabin. Should you fail to do so, your on board account will be charged automatically with the amount of 20 Euros per piece.
Visitors:
Due to security reasons and the comfort of other passengers, visitors are not allowed on board.
Each evening, a program detailing the following day's activities will be delivered to your cabin. This will include arrival and departure times, excursion departure times, social activities, meal times, opening hours of the on board services, evening dress code and other useful information. Please read it carefully.
Guest Relations Office:
Our on board personnel will be pleased to help you and answer all your questions. The Guest Relations Office is open 24 hours a day.
Electric Current:
The current on board our vessels varies: 110v AC or 220v AC. Please remember to bring an international transformer as sockets often vary from standard sockets ashore. Check our website for each ships particulars www.louiscruises.com
Smoking policy:
Smoking is prohibited in all areas except one designated lounge (usually the casino) and also the open decks. Passengers are requested not to smoke in their cabins.
Laundry and pressing:
A laundry and pressing service is available on board our vessels. Complete the form, place the clothing in the laundry bag provided, your cabin steward will do the rest. Your on board account will be charged accordingly.
Pool towels:
Cabin personnel will provide you with sufficient towels, which will be replaced as required. Passengers are kindly requested to return the used towels back to the cabin. Should you fail to do so, your on board account will be charged automatically with the amount of 20 Euros per piece.
Visitors:
Due to security reasons and the comfort of other passengers, visitors are not allowed on board.
Shipboard Services
Duty Free & Travel Value shops:
Discover the fine selection of items in our Duty Free & Travel Value shops. The shops offer a selection of tasteful merchandise including fragrances, cosmetics, fashion wear, liquor, cigarettes and of course many Louis branded souvenir items. The on board shops are open daily while the ship is at sea. Customs regulations do not allow us to open whilst in port.
Photography Services:
Your most memorable experiences on board and during excursions may be photographed by our professional team of photographers. All photos will then be displayed at the vessels' Photo Gallery.
Internet Facilities:
All vessels offer internet facilities, the use of which is charged to your shipboard account.
Medical Facilities:
A physician is available on board all vessels 24 hours a day while at sea and during scheduled hours when the vessel is in port. Professional service, care and medication are offered by our ships' physicians. A customary fee is charged for the services and medication; this can be charged to your shipboard account.
Beauty salon:
Hair, manicure, pedicure and a variety of relaxing massage techniques are available on board. A wide selection of organic skin products is available. Meet our experienced personnel for a complimentary consultation to select the services most suited to you and make sure to book your appointments early to avoid disappointment
Discover the fine selection of items in our Duty Free & Travel Value shops. The shops offer a selection of tasteful merchandise including fragrances, cosmetics, fashion wear, liquor, cigarettes and of course many Louis branded souvenir items. The on board shops are open daily while the ship is at sea. Customs regulations do not allow us to open whilst in port.
Photography Services:
Your most memorable experiences on board and during excursions may be photographed by our professional team of photographers. All photos will then be displayed at the vessels' Photo Gallery.
Internet Facilities:
All vessels offer internet facilities, the use of which is charged to your shipboard account.
Medical Facilities:
A physician is available on board all vessels 24 hours a day while at sea and during scheduled hours when the vessel is in port. Professional service, care and medication are offered by our ships' physicians. A customary fee is charged for the services and medication; this can be charged to your shipboard account.
Beauty salon:
Hair, manicure, pedicure and a variety of relaxing massage techniques are available on board. A wide selection of organic skin products is available. Meet our experienced personnel for a complimentary consultation to select the services most suited to you and make sure to book your appointments early to avoid disappointment
Stay in touch
Mobile telephones:
Please note that when your mobile phones are out of shore side network limits, their signal is transmitted via the vessels' satellite which increases the cost to you, the subscriber.
While on board you can be contacted on the following number:
Aquamarine Fax 00871 324974613 Telephone 00871 324074611
Please note that when your mobile phones are out of shore side network limits, their signal is transmitted via the vessels' satellite which increases the cost to you, the subscriber.
While on board you can be contacted on the following number:
Aquamarine Fax 00871 324974613 Telephone 00871 324074611
Ship specifications
Gross Tonnage: | 23,149 |
Length: | 193,65m |
Breadth: | 24m |
Draught: | 6,72m |
Passengers Decks: | 7 |
Elevators: | 4 |
Electric Current: | 110V AC |
Classification Society: | DNV |
Flag: | Greek |
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