Tracing Paul’s Footsteps: A Spiritual Journey in Türkiye and Greece
Going on a journey through Türkiye and Greece, tracing the footsteps of Paul, profoundly enriched my faith and understanding of early Christianity. Each day unfolded a new chapter of spiritual discovery, blending ancient history with modern reflection and belief. I invite you to join me as I recount my personal experience with a day-by-day summary of the trip!
Day 1
As we touched down in Istanbul, despite being tired after a long journey from New York, I felt an immediate wave of excitement. This vibrant city was the perfect starting point for our trip. We went straight from the airport to the center of the city, where we stood between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Walking through the Hagia Sophia was an incredible experience; standing in a place that had been a center for Christian worship for centuries was spiritually moving.
Istanbul was also a great place to experience Turkish culture firsthand. After having a traditional Turkish meal, we went on a boat tour of the Golden Horn, which separates the historic center of Istanbul from the rest of the city. Then, we visited a local spice bazaar and sat down for Turkish tea to prepare for the next 8 days of exploration of history and faith.
Day 2
The next morning, we flew to Izmir and began our journey to Pergamum, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Walking through the ruins, I was struck by the significance of this place in early Christianity. The remnants of the temples and a theater painted a vibrant picture of the past. As the sun began to set, I admired the pure beauty of the view from the Acropolis. I visualized the daily lives of the citizens of Pergamum and wondered. Were they considering John’s message?
Day 3
Our third day took us to Sardis and Philadelphia, two more of the Seven Churches of Revelation. At Sardis, we marveled at the remains of the Temple of Artemis and the grand synagogue, symbols of the diverse faiths that once coexisted there. Philadelphia, though less excavated, was equally inspiring. Each site provided a tangible link to the early Christian communities. As we explored, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the early believers who paved the way for our faith today.
Day 4
Our final day in Türkiye began in Kusadasi, from where we traveled to Ephesus. I thought that Ephesus was the most spectacular place we visited – walking down the marble streets and seeing the grand theater where Paul once preached was moving. This ancient city, with its impressive and well-excavated ruins, was once a bustling center of early Christianity.
After taking in Ephesus, we drove to a nearby trade school to learn the art of Turkish carpet making. We were greeted with tea and a plate of Turkish food, which showed their welcoming culture. I had the opportunity to learn the technique behind carpet making and even try it out myself!
Day 5
We then journeyed to Greece, beginning with Corinth, a key site in Paul’s missionary travels. Corinth was one place that everyone said they would need to return to – there was something bordering on divine about standing in the ancient city and seeing the ruins of places that inspired Paul’s writings. It’s just something you want to experience again.
We then traveled to Athens, where we explored the Acropolis. One of the pastors gave an inspiring sermon to our group on Mars Hill, where Paul once preached, and a crowd of locals and tourists began to form. It felt like we were truly in Paul’s footsteps at that moment. We then reflected together on Paul’s challenges arriving in Athens when he saw the people worshiping false gods and idols.
Day 6
Our sixth day began with a stop at a beautiful monastery. Another pastor gave a sermon – the serene setting amplifying the power of the message.
We then went on to visit the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archaeological Museum where we learned more about the rich history of ancient Greece – it is incredible how much has been discovered and preserved from that time. Walking around that area had me thinking about the sermon from the day before about idolatry. I felt a connection between the spiritual journey we were on and the historic path we were following, especially on this day.
Day 7
Waking up in Kalambaka, I was immediately excited for the day ahead. I took a moment to sit on my balcony at the hotel and look at the gorgeous rock formations of Meteora. Soon we were on our way – up, up, up to monasteries that are perched so high you feel like you could touch heaven! No wonder they built them there. We toured one of the monasteries and learned about its history and current uses. To me, the view from the monastery was a reminder to always appreciate the beauty of the amazing world God has given us – because wow, it is spectacular there.
After admiring Meteora for a while, we drove to Thessaloniki and enjoyed a night walk around the city. We spent some time talking about our trip so far and looking forward to the last few days.
Day 8
Traveling to Philippi, we visited the archaeological site, among the most impressive so far. We then took a short journey to the site of Saint Lydia’s baptism. The sermon given there, accompanied by a beautiful flute performance by our tour guide, was a moment of pure inspiration. Some group members sat and washed their hands in the water, while others walked around in awe. This was the perfect bit of quiet time.
Later, we had lunch together and walked around the Port of Kavala. It was the most beautiful day despite it being early February and I sat to enjoy the sun on my face (after a little running around to find authentic Gyros).
Then came one of the best moments of the trip – we pulled to the side of the road to stand on an unrestored portion of the Ignatian way, which Paul must have traveled on. It was a hidden gem that allowed for a moment of real connection with the spirit of the trip and with Paul himself.
Day 9
Our final day took us to Veria (Berea), where we saw the most ancient synagogue in Northern Greece. We had our final sermon there, then stopped at the modern Altar of Paul, showing his legacy and the city’s faith.
We then went to the Archaeological Museum of Vergina to see the tombs of Phillip II and Alexander IV, and their ancient treasures.
Ending the night with a farewell dinner in Thessaloniki, we reminisced about our experiences and the profound impact this experience had on our faith. I had felt a close and unique bond with people in the group by the end of the trip.
This journey through Türkiye and Greece, following in the footsteps of Paul, was more than a historical tour – it was a spiritual, life-changing collection of experiences that taught me about my faith and the world around me. I left with an energized spirit, feeling closer to my faith than ever. I will never forget that feeling and will always carry this trip with me.
FTI’s faith-based tours are fully custom, turnkey packages tailored to your unique needs and budget. If you are interested in learning more or want to start planning a Footsteps of Paul trip for your church, request a quote on our website or email me at klavan@fellowship.com!