Athens – Crete Pilgrimage In the footsteps of St. Paul [8days]

In the morning, a tour of the Ancient Agora, where Paul discussed with the Athenian philosophers. Reading a related passage from the Bible. A reference to the difference between the Christian faith and the Greek philosophical spirit. A visit to the Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos for prayer. In the afternoon, lunch in Plaka, the historic neighborhood of Athens. In the evening, a visit to the Monastery of Kaisariani, an Orthodox monastery in nature, for spiritual reflection. In the evening, prayer at the hotel followed by a discussion on the historical and spiritual significance of Athens.

In the morning, departure for Ancient Corinth, where Paul spent 18 months teaching (Acts 18:1-11). Visit to the Bema of Paul, the place where he defended his faith. Reading of the letter to the Corinthians and prayer. In the afternoon, lunch at a local tavern near the Corinth Isthmus. In the afternoon, stop at the Isthmus for photos and a brief mention of the strategic geographical importance of Corinth during Paul’s time. Return to Athens. In the evening, free time and dinner.

In the morning, flight from Athens to Chania. Transfer to the hotel and welcome. In the afternoon, lunch in the Old Town of Chania. In the evening, visit to the Cathedral of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary for prayer. Tour of the Venetian Harbor and a discussion on the history of Christianity in Crete. In the evening, a spiritual discussion about the mission of Paul and Titus in Crete.

In the morning, departure for the Monastery of Gonia in Kolymbari. Visit to the church and discussion about the contribution of monasteries to the spiritual life of Crete. Prayer for blessing and strengthening. In the afternoon, lunch at a traditional tavern. In the evening, free time in the Old Town of Chania for a walk and reflection. Dinner and overnight stay in Chania.

In the morning, departure for Gortyn, where Paul left Titus to organize the Church of Crete (Titus 1:5). Tour of the archaeological site and the Basilica of Saint Titus. Prayer for guidance in the spirit of Paul and Titus. At noon: lunch on the way. In the afternoon, arrival in Heraklion and visit to the Cathedral of Saint Titus. Reference to the mission of Titus and the significance of his church. In the evening, dinner and overnight stay in Heraklion.

In the morning, a guided tour of the archaeological site of Knossos, with reference to the connection between the Minoan civilization and the biblical history. A discussion on the role of ancient civilizations in the gospel message. In the afternoon, lunch at a local tavern. Later, a visit to the Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of sacrifice and faith. A prayer for strengthening personal faith. In the evening, a farewell ceremony with a group prayer and dinner.

Departure for Athens and return flight.