church israel trip

• Christian Israel Tours

Israel Tours for Christians

There’s nothing like an Israel Holy Land pilgrimage and tour to bring you closer to Yeshua and give you a deeper and broader understanding of God’s word. Coral offers the very  best Christian tours to Israel  for our customers throughout the year. Book one of our  biblical Israel tours  today!

Biblical Israel Tour Options for Christian Travelers

Coral offers a wide-variety of options to Christian travelers who want to visit the Holy Land. Below you’ll find the  best Christian Israel tours to meet the needs of individuals, small groups, large groups, be it church, bible study, or educational groups. If you are a pastor or Christian leader and are interesting in hosting a tour group to Israel, be sure to check out our Pastors’ Familiarization Tour!

Essence of Israel Tour – Designed for Believers

Packed with lots of amazing historical and biblical sites, joining our Essence of  Israel tour  is a great option for individuals and small groups who want an opportunity to meet new people with the same love of the  Holy Land  while keeping the costs of the trip very affordable. This is the  perfect biblical Israel tour  for small churches, bible study and high school/college groups.

Israel Tour – Pastor Familiarization

Familiarization trips  are unique opportunities for Christian leaders to study the land of  Israel  and explore the wide-range of tour options available for hosting a group to the Holy Land. Learn how you can receive a full refund of your tour (basic program) when you book and host your own group to the Holy Land within 12 months of the  familiarization tour .  Click here  to request a quote to any of our  destinations  for your specific group of pastors.

Israel Tour – Customized Travel for Private Groups

Our friendly qualified staff will work with you, one on one, to  design an Israel tour program  to include the particular sites and attractions to suit your specific travel requests. Whether you want to arrange a  Biblical Israel tour  to walk where Jesus walked or sail the Aegean Sea, we can assist you with creating the perfect program.  Please contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.

2023 Resurrection Church, Veritas Church, Calvary Chapel New Orleans Israel Tour

Join Pastor John Core, Bishop C.L. Mitchell, and Pastor Kevin Cox for this exciting biblical Israel Tour, May 19 – 30, 2023. Experience scripture come alive during this amazing Israel experience! Visit many of the places you’ve heard about during Sunday sermons! Draw closer to Jesus as you walk in His footsteps

2023 Cornerstone Community Church Israel Tour

Join hosts Pastor Ron Baum and his wife Julie   for this inspiring 10-day tour of Israel. Departing May 2, 2023, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to visit Israel and see the Bible come to life! Explore the land of the Jewish Patriarchs Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Walk in the footsteps of Jesus and be transformed. Don’t miss this journey of a lifetime! Space is limited. Be sure to save your spot and register today.

Pastor Robert & Donna Schuller Israel Tour

June 20 – 28, 2023. Join Pastor Robert & Donna Schuller for this Footsteps of Jesus Israel Tour! Your faith will be transformed as you explore places that Jesus walked and preached the Good News. Visit the places you’ve read about in the scriptures and  experience the Bible come to life! This 9-day Israel tour is packed with many exciting places you’ve read about in the Bible! Don’t miss this opportunity to be baptized in the Jordan River! Register today!

Calvary Chapel Greeley Israel Tour

October 18 – 29, 2023. Join tour leader, Pastor Jeff Figgs for this unforgettable Holy Land Tour! Grow your Christian faith as you journey throughout this amazing land where Jesus, the prophets and the kings lived. This 12-day tour of the Promised Land with renew your spirit! Register to join fellow believers on this exciting group tour of the Holy Land!

2023 Calvary Chapel Monrovia Israel Tour

Journey to the Holy Land with Calvary Chapel Monrovia and Pastor Richard Schork , October 22 – November 2, 2023. This 12-day door to door tour package includes flights, meals – including a special farewell dinner, lodging, lots of historical sites and biblical places you’ve read about in the scriptures. Don’t miss this amazing bible-themed group tour to Israel! Sign up today!

2023 Bishop Tyron Ivy Israel Tour

Experience the best of Israel on this 11-day Holy Land Tour with host Bishop Tyron Ivy, November 6 – 16, 2023 . Visit some of the most notable sites in Israel during this once-in-a-lifetime tour! Explore Jaffa, Caesarea, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Megiddo, Sea of Galilee, Tel Dan, Capernaum, Bet She’an, Masada, and much more… Register today to save your spot on this incredible journey.

2023 Calvary Chapel Snowflake Holy Land Tour

October 22 – November 2, 2023. Join this 12-day bible-themed group Israel Tour with Calvary Chapel Snowflake. Explore the Promised Land with your hosts Pastor Dave & Lisa Marshall . Experience the powerful spiritual impact of this special journey. As you travel and wander through the ancient biblical places you’ll be amazed at the miracle of modern Israel! Reserve your space today.

IPHC Israel Tour with Dr. Doug Beacham

Visit Israel November 27 – December 8, 2023 with Dr. Doug Beacham during this 10-day Holy Land journey! During this Bible-themed group tour of Israel you’ll discover the roots of your faith, visit the places you’ve read about in the bible and draw nearer to Jesus! Return home with a lifetime of memories. Visit the IPHC Israel Tour page for details!

CC Eureka & CC Tracy Israel Tour

Join Pastors Alejandro Anchondo and Nathan Mrotzek for this Calvary Chapel Israel Tour , February 26 – March 6, 2024. During this 11-day custom-designed Holy Land tour, your understanding of the bible and who Jesus is will expand exponentially. You’ll be a witness to prophecies come true as you travel throughout the land. Return home with a renewed spirit and a closer relationship with Jesus!

Jonathan Cahn 2024 Israel Mystery Tour

Experience the Holy Land, March 11 – 21, 2024, with Rabbi Jonathan Cahn during this 11-day Israel Mystery Tour! The Bible will come alive as you walk the land of God, where the prophets walked, the heroes of the Bible, the disciples, and Messiah Himself! Visit the Jonathan Cahn 2024 Israel Tour page for details!

Israel Tour – Guaranteed Departures

Planning your own trip, or already in Israel on business or leisure? We offer  half-day, full-day , as well as longer guaranteed departure tours to a variety of the country’s regions including Jerusalem, Masada, the Dead Sea, Bethlehem and more. You’ll visit the land of milk and honey with highly experienced, government licensed Israeli guides.

• Greece Tours

Petra, Jordan Tours

Turkey Tours

Recent blogs.

• Exploring Israel: Around The Sea of Galilee
• When is the Best Time to Visit Israel?
• 11-Day Israel Itinerary: The Perfect Adventure
• Exploring What Israel Is Famous For: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Innovation
• A Week of Spiritual Discovery in Israel with Coral Travel & Tours

Other Links

• Destinations
• Subscribe to our e-Newsletter
• Jonathan Cahn 2025 Israel Super Tour
• Egypt Tours

CONTACT INFO

Main Office: 215 Millburn Ave. Millburn, NJ 07041 866.267.2511 toll 973.921.1166 phone 973.376.9598 fax [email protected]

Florida Office: 561.704.2900 561.364.5518 [email protected]

Find Us On Facebook

Follow Us On Instagram

Join Our Mailing List

Life-changing Tours Since 1987 - Call Us Toll Free: 800.322.0788

Tours to the Holy Land: Trips & Israel Tour Packages 2024, 2025

"Every place we visited was breathtakingly beautiful, with stunning landscapes and rich historical and cultural heritage. We highly recommend visiting Israel to anyone who wants to experience an unforgettable journey. We had a life-changing time there and are already planning to return." Simon L. and Beatriz G. – Tour to Israel/Egypt/Jordan February 2024 "I had a wonderful time in Israel. I felt while I was there the precautions that were taken for our safety were well in hand. I still got to experience many holy sites and be blessed by walking the path that Jesus walked. Every day was started in prayer, singing, or scripture reading which also extended the blessing of the trip." Quincie L. – Tour to Israel/Egypt/Jordan February 2024

Our Israel tours & Holy Land tours of 9-24 days for the Evangelical Protestant Bible believer are what Pilgrim Tours does best. Prepare yourself for a life-changing journey to walk where Jesus walked and visit Jerusalem, Galilee, & Samaria. Each of our Israel tours is led by a local guide who is an experienced expert on the historical, cultural, scenic, and spiritual history of the Holy Land. If you travel with 10 or more people, a private group tour can easily be arranged. Pilgrim Tours can customize an itinerary to fit your group needs with many options to choose from.

Concerned about safety? As a Christian tour operator, the staff at Pilgrim Tours takes a Biblical perspective regarding the current situation in the Middle East. We do not believe that peace in Israel is something that will occur until the Prince of Peace comes to restore His kingdom. Please do not make a reservation with us based on the hopes of a calm future. If you long for the special blessings only available in Israel, we will take you there. An expert driver and guide will carefully keep you from any areas that could present a problem and treat you to the riches of Israel as our special guest.

Below is a large variety of Israel tour packages departing in 2024 and 2025 year-round.

View Our New Israel Tour Highlights Video! Click Here

Reserve your tour at least 6 months in advance for an early booking discount, groups and parties of 6 or more click here for special rates, scheduled 2024 & 2025 israel tours.

View our Israel tours ranging from 9-24 days.

Take a tour of a lifetime and bring the Bible to life.

Featured Sites in Israel

Explore a vast selection of beautiful historical and Biblical locations throughout Israel with our Israel Holy Land tour. You can visit Jerusalem, Galilee, and parts of Samaria, getting the life-changing opportunity to see where Jesus and many other Biblical figures lived and walked. We even offer Holy Land tours that allow you to see the Dead Sea, the Garden Tomb, and the Jordan River Baptism Site. Like all of our Europe tours , our Israel Holy Land tours are led by local guides who have extensive knowledge of the area and its history. If you want to experience the history of Israel and see the Bible come to life, our Holy Land tours give you that opportunity.

The city of Jerusalem offers a unique convergence of Judaism, Christianity, and the Muslim faith. For Christians who visit Jerusalem, you will learn about many stories of the Bible while walking her streets. Many actors in the Bible such as Abraham, King David, King Solomon, the twelve disciples and Jesus all lived, visited, or spent time there. The Passion week of Christ will be highlighted during our stay as we visit the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Western Wall, the Way of Suffering, and the Garden Tomb.

Sea of Galilee

Nowhere in Israel does the Bible come to life more than along the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Pilgrims who visit the Galilee region have the opportunity to imagine what life was like 2,000 years ago and what Jesus and the twelve disciples experienced while fishing on the Sea of Galilee. The peaceful setting and the natural wonders of the Golan Heights to the east and Mt. Arbel to the west make for a great way to start your morning in quiet reflection. During our tour, we explore the Biblical towns of Capernaum, Magdala, and Nazareth and take a meaningful cruise on the Sea of Galilee.

The Dead Sea is not only the lowest and most lifeless lake in the world, but also nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean. Travelers will enjoy the beautiful colors of the blue water and the red mountains of Jordan to the east. Take time to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime Dead Sea “float” either in the sea itself or at one of the warm salt water pools at our hotel. The Dead Sea experience is truly a bucket list visit you won’t want to miss!

Garden Tomb

Our visit to the Garden Tomb and its surrounding gardens is normally one of the highlights of our tour to Israel. The Garden Tomb is a rock-cut tomb in Jerusalem that was unearthed in 1867 and is considered by some Protestants to be the site of the burial and resurrection of Jesus. Our visit offers a unique time of prayer, reflection, communion, and praise, which will be a special life-long memory for many travelers.

Jordan River Baptism Site

The Jordan River Baptist Site or “Yardenit” is a baptism site located along the Jordan River just south of the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel. This site is frequented by Christian Pilgrims who enjoy imagining the setting of the baptism of Jesus. For anyone who would like to be baptized in the Jordan River, Yardenit has been developed to be a peaceful setting with beautiful gardens, clean colored water, changing facilities, showers, and a nice souvenir shop.

Caesarea Philippi

To many Pilgrim travelers, Caesarea Philippi is a special surprise while on their tour. Located along the rushing springs of Mt. Hermon, the beautiful and natural setting is where Jesus asked his disciples “Who do men say that I am?” He asked this question while observing the pagan worship of the god Pan as worshipers offered their sacrifice at the “Gates of Hell.” Our time at Caesarea Philippi is one of many opportunities throughout our tour to see the lessons and message of the Bible come to light in a special way.

Israel Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month for the Holy Land tour?

Taking a trip to Israel during the spring or fall offers the most enjoyable weather of the year but normally has the largest crowds. If you want to enjoy a peaceful tour with fewer crowds, consider visiting between December and February or June and August. We offer Israel and Jordan tours throughout the year, so you can select a trip that works for your schedule.

How many days do you need for a Holy Land tour?

We offer several types of tours of the Holy Land, so the duration of your tour depends on the tour package you choose. The Best of Israel Tour is our most basic offering and includes a Sea of Galilee boat ride, a trip to the Jordan River Baptism Site, the Dead Sea, and many opportunities to walk on the same land Jesus walked on. This is our shortest trip at just 9 or 10 days. Our most involved trips allow you to experience a wide range of historical locations over the course of a few weeks. Egypt tours are included in some of these packages, as well as tours in Greece and other countries. These tours can take up to 24 days, giving you the chance to spend an extended period of time learning about and visiting different parts of the world. From our Turkey tours to all of our Israel Christian tours, all of our tours feature a first-class hotel rating for the country you visit. We do offer some upgraded tours that offer better lodging options. You can review our hotel categories at https://www.pilgrimtours.com/company/hotelcomparison.htm . Check out any of our tours to view a day-by-day itinerary and see what amenities are included with each tour.

What is the dress code in Israel?

The dress code in Israel is different from other parts of the world. There are a few dress code basics you should understand before booking Israel tours: When you’re in Israel, there is no strict dress code. You can wear what you feel comfortable wearing. However, both men and women should try to dress conservatively and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting any of the religious sites throughout Israel. Generally speaking, it’s best to avoid tank tops and shorts. Men need to cover their heads when visiting the Western Wall. Pilgrim Tours provides a Pilgrim Tours ball cap upon arrival in Israel, but you might consider purchasing an affordable kippa that you can bring when you visit Jewish sites. Some places may offer a free kippa, but these are generally low quality. (Women are not required to cover their heads at any sight.) You can figure out what you need to pack and how to dress each day by looking at the itinerary for our Holy Land tours. Guides normally offer guidance on how to dress for the next day while on tour. We also suggest looking at the extended weather forecast as you prepare and pack for your trip.

Is there a lot of walking involved on an Israel Tour?

Our Israel tours do require a significant amount of walking each day and you should be able to walk unassisted 3-4 miles per day on average. Make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes that provide adequate support. While there are bus and boat rides during these tours, you have to walk quite a bit to explore some of the Biblical sites. Our tour guides normally give the group a few options at sites for those that have physical limitations. One thing to keep in mind is that there are many hills and valleys in Israel which can make walking even more taxing. The amount of walking you have to do may vary based on the tour you take, so look at the itinerary before choosing your tour. The good news is that Israel is a beautiful country to see on foot, and you’ll have several opportunities to sit down and give your feet a rest. As long as you have a good pair of shoes and comfortable clothes, it’s easy to forget about all the walking you’re doing and enjoy the tour.

What passport & visa information do I need for your Israel tours?

U.S. citizens need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity beyond their intended stay to enter Israel. Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one copy at home and carry the other separately from your original. Israel: U.S. and Canadian Citizens do not need a Visa when entering Israel. Non U. S. /Canadian Citizens are responsible to fulfill appropriate entry requirements of destination. Contact your Consulate office for requirements.

What common languages will be spoken during your Israel tours?

Hebrew, Arabic and English.

What currency can I use on your Israel tours?

The U.S. dollar is widely accepted across Israel, and we suggest bringing about $30 for each day you’ll be on tour. U.S. dollars are recommended for use for small purchases and lunches. Lunches typically cost $15-20. It is important to bring about 20 $1 bills as some bathrooms charge a small fee for use. Credit cards may also be used for larger purchases. ATMs in Israel are all connected to European and American banking systems. Please be advised that the ATM machines dispense money in SHEKELS – NOT U.S. DOLLARS. Please notify your bank before traveling overseas.

Do I need to bring a converter for the Israel tour?

Israel uses the European plug with two round pins. You will need to bring along the necessary converters and adapters to operate any 120 volt appliances such as hair dryers and electric razors as well as camera and cell phone chargers. Electricity in Israel is 220 volts 50 Hz.

What is the time zone for your Israel tours?

The time zone for Israel is seven hours ahead of EST and two hours ahead of GMT.

What climate should I expect during your Israel tours?

In Israel the climate is temperate, and temperatures all year-round are reasonable. Israel has two main seasons: winter (from November to March) is cold and rainy in most parts of the country; summer (from April to October) is hot and dry with little or no rainfall. The desert areas can be extremely hot in summer time.

Recent Reviews on Trustpilot, BBB, & Google

View what others are saying about our Israel tours on Trustpilot , BBB , and Google !

"Pilgrim tours is who I'll be recommending people to travel with. We've been trying to get to Israel for two years and finally made it!! Great company from booking to on the ground with great guides. All details taken care of with great hotels, bus, and the best guides!! Wonderful experience!"

"We had a great experience in Israel with Pilgrim Tours. Everything went very well and there were no glitches or problems of any kind. The bus and driver were top notch as were the hotels and daily breakfast buffets. Our tour guide was great as his depth of knowledge of the people, history and languages Israel was quite amazing. We will very likely use Pilgrim again in the future."

"We have toured with Pilgrim Tours three times and what a blessing. Accommodations, excursions, information and food were all high quality. Post pandemic, we were so thankful to return to Israel."

"I couldn't have asked for more for a trip to the Holy Land than what Pilgrim Tours provided me. It was the perfect balance of spiritual reverence, history, geography, and social issues. I am so grateful for the experience that I had on this trip."

"Our church group just returned from taking a "Best of Israel" ten day tour. It was one of the best experiences of my life. I am so glad we chose Pilgrim tours. From our excellent hotel accommodations, to our wonderful tour guide, we enjoyed everything. Our trip exceeded our expectations. I would recommend Pilgrim Tours to anyone who is planning a trip to the Holy Land. We definitely plan to travel with them again."

View some of the sites from our Israel tours!

• 0 Shopping Cart $ 0.00 -->

HOLY LAND TOURS TO ISRAEL

Learning the Bible with a Christian Group Tour in the Land of the Bible

Galilee • Masada • Qumran • Bethlehem • Jerusalem

HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR ISRAEL GROUP TOUR

• Roundtrip airfare from New York or a city of your choice from the list below
• First Class Hotels, Full Israeli Buffet Breakfast and Dinner Daily
• Deluxe, air-conditioned Motor coaches
• Visits to Sites as mentioned below
• Comprehensive Sightseeing per the Itinerary
• Professional Tour Manager
• Gratuities to Guide, Driver and Restaurant staff
• Airport taxes & airline fuel surcharges

Watch the video below and hear what people are saying about Friendship Tours to Israel

Our past and present travelers know the quality of tours we deliver. Friendship Tours is America’s leading Christian tour company since 1981.  We believe every Christian must be given the opportunity to visit the land of our Lord and experience the Bible come alive! 

  We are offering this “high quality & all inclusive” Christian tour of Israel at extremely low rates. There are no additional expenses other than your lunches and any gifts you buy.   Rates include airfare, 8 nights hotels, gratuities and much more.   

We will print your custom brochures in color. With your name and your church name.

  Pick a date, any date from below, and plan your own group for your church. Get your own private bus with 30 or more paid passengers. Pastors & spouse always travel free. Please call us for more details.  

CHRISTIAN TOUR OF ISRAEL DAILY ITINERARY

Day 1 —  usa• tel aviv.

Depart from USA on our flight to Tel Aviv, Israel   Meals and overnight on board.  After dinner relax and enjoy the on-board entertainment.

DAY 2 —  TEL AVIV

Arrive at Tel Aviv’s Ben-Gurion Airport and meet our guide who will welcome us to the Land of the Bible and escort us throughout our stay in Israel. Israeli guides are legendary for their knowledge and dedication. Ours will instruct us on the many sites we will visit and their relationship to the religion, history, archaeology, culture, and modern life in Israel. Time permitting, visit Old Jaffa , the traditional home of Simon the Tanner and the port from which Jonah sailed. Dinner and overnight at our hotel in Tiberias.

DAY 3 —  TIBERIAS

Refreshed from a good night’s sleep you may wish to stroll the beach before a full Israeli Buffet Breakfast. Today we pass through the fast growing towns and farms of the Plain of  Sharon enroute to Caesarea , site of major events in the lives of Peter and Paul . It’s on to Megiddo , inspiration for James Michener’s “The Source”. Archaeological digs reveal 20 layers of civilization, including fortifications of King Solomon and the water tunnel of King Ahab . Megiddo provides a magnificent view of the fertile Jezreel Valley , prophesied site of Armageddon , at the crossroads of the ancient Via Maris .   Continue through the rolling hills of the Galilee to Nazareth , site of Mary’s Well, and Cana , site of His first miracle, before arriving in Tiberias . Dinner and overnight at our hotel in Tiberias .

“I LOVE LOVE LOVE Israel and Friendship Tours. As a Pastor I will bring my Church every year until everyone has experienced Gods Chosen Land and people. Deena Clayman is the BEST Guide in all of Israel!”

DAY 4 —  TIBERIAS

This day alone is worth the trip!  We are now literally walking in the footsteps of Jesus.  We will take a most memorable boat ride on the Sea of Galilee , in a replica of the ancient wooden boat used in Jesus’ day.  We will visit an ancient boat believed to be from Jesus’ time found in the Sea of Galilee in 1986.  We walk into old Capernaum with the ancient synagogue ; on to the site of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes (Tabgha), the Sermon on the Mount and the Mount of Beatitudes .  You will have an opportunity for a lunch of St. Peter’s fish (optional.)  In the afternoon we will journey north to Caesarea Phillipi (Banias Spring) where Peter confessed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God” (Matthew 16:16.)   Dinner and overnight at our hotel in Tiberias .

DAY 5 —  TIBERIAS • JERUSALEM

This morning we will visit the Jordan River and have the opportunity for a baptismal service .  Drive along the Jordan Valley to Beit She’an to see the expansive excavations taking place at this ancient Roman Decapolis city.  Stop at Gideon’s Spring where Gideon selected his soldiers to do battle against the Midianites.  It’s now time to “go up” to Jerusalem .  We will enter the city as pilgrims did since ancient times to fulfill the words of the prophet “I was glad when they said unto me: ‘Our feet shall stand within thy Gates, O Jerusalem’ ” (Psalms 122:1-2.)   Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem .

DAY 6 — JERUSALEM   

Start the day with a magnificent view of the Old City from the top of the Mt. of Olives .  Take the “Palm Sunday Walk” to the Garden of Gethsemane , the Church of All Nations and drive across the Kidron Valley .  Enter the Old City through St. Stephen’s Gate (Lions’ Gate) to the Muslim Quarter , visit the beautiful Church of St. Anne and the Pool of Bethesda , Pilate’s Judgment Hall , and the Ecce Homo Arch .  Walk along the Via Dolorosa, into the Christian Quarter , and see the Stations of the Cross .  Drive to Mt. Zion to see the House of Caiaphas and the Upper Room of the Last Supper .  We will visit Bethlehem and see Manger Square , the Church of the Nativity , and view Shepherds’ Fields and the Fields of Boaz and Ruth .  Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem .

DAY 7 — MASADA • DEAD  SEA • QUMRAN

Depart to Masada , overlooking the Dead Sea , the lowest spot on Earth, where we ascend by cable car to visit the remnants of Herod’s Palace and where in 73 A.D. the Zealots made their last stand against the might of Rome.  Visit Ein Gedi , fabled Spring of David , and proceed to Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in 1947.  Time permitting, we will go for a swim, rather a “float”, in the salted waters of the Dead Sea .  Return to Jerusalem for dinner and overnight.

DAY 8 — JERUSALEM

We will begin the day with a visit to the reconstructed Jewish Quarter , walk through the Cardo , the original Roman street and see the amazing remains of the massive wall built by King Hezekiah . See the important excavations taking place at the Western Wall and the Southern Temple Staircase . On to the Temple Mount , where Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac.  See the Dome of the Rock and al-Aqsa Mosque that now stands there.   End the afternoon at Golgotha (Gordon’s Calvary) and the empty Garden Tomb .  Special time is planned for worship, communion, meditation and inspiration

DAY 9  —  JERUSALEM

Today is a day at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the Old city on your own. .  This evening we  will share in a Farewell Dinner and the presentation of a Certificate of Pilgrimage to each tour  participant. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem .

DAY 10   —  ISRAEL • USA

Today we transfer to the airport.  Our guide will assist us with check-in procedures.  Depart on our flight home.  We arrive home today with wonderful memories of a visit to the Land of the Bible!

“We always feel safe in Israel. Traveling with Friendship Tours is a great experience. They really know what they are doing”

Special Rates

Our rates below are all inclusive and include a 20% bundle savings. All passengers pay for are their lunches & souvenirs.  There are no hidden charges!

*Value Pricing With Limited Inventory

Egypt – Four day optional extension that can be combined with above tour dates. $1085 Add Egypt Extension

Jordan – Four day optional extension that can be combined with above tour dates. $1200 Add Jordan Extension

East Coast – New York, Boston, Washington Dulles, Newark Central Coast – Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta West Coast – Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle

Note: All above rates are based in U.S Dollars

Our philosophy is very simple!

We offer an all-inclusive price with airfare, 4 star hotels, two meals a day and all the sightseeing outlined above. The only thing that is not included in our pricing is lunches.

Hotels we use:

Tiberias – Leonardo Club & Lake House, or similar

Jerusalem – Grand Court Hotel, Ramada Jerusalem Hotel or Leonardo Jerusalem Hotel, or similar

Important Note: All rates are subject to change without notice

Airfares and airline fuel surcharges are subject to change without notice!

REQUEST MORE INFORMATION

Please fill out the form below and one of our travel experts will follow up with you with additional information about our travel packages and answer any questions you may have.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR TOUR FROM YOUR GATEWAY CITY

If you have a group of 20 or more we will create a custom tour for you with an itinerary of your choosing including your own private motor coach. We will price your tour from your gateway city. Then we will print a custom brochure personalized to your group. We will offer our suggestions to complement your ideas in order to achieve the best possible program for your group. We are happy to design any program you like. Flexibility is part of our service to you.

(800) 213-9155

Testimonials.

https://www.friendshiptours.com/testimonials-1/

Book your tour now

    https://www.friendshiptours.com/book-a-trip/

Questions to consider when selecting your Tour Company

  research is key to selecting the right company, please read this carefully before you sign up with any tour company.

What is the Tour Company’s main focus?

Several vacation tour companies have attempted to make inroads into the Christian

Pilgrimage market. Friendship Tours only specializes in Christian pilgrimages. We do not sell vacation packages to other countries. Christian Pilgrimages is all we do and we do it well!

What knowledge does the company have about their guides?

The owners of Friendship Tours personally screen and select all of our guides.  We choose guides who are flexible and responsive to the needs of our group leaders.  Our guides are well informed with a broad base of knowledge in both the Old and New Testament. Our guides make us successful and this is why our group leaders re-book year after year with us.

How long has the company been around?

After 9/11 several companies avoided refunding churches the tour payments and closed shop only to re-open under a different name. Friendship Tours has been in business since 1982 and has refunded all travelers their money.  Every client was cared for after 9/11. This level of service and trust is important in the ever-changing world we live in.

Are the company owners Christian?

Friendship Tours is a Christian Company.  We consider our work to be the work of God on behalf of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  We understand Christian Pilgrimage and we make every effort to help you in planning a meaningful, memorable and faithful experience.

What financial protection does the company offer?

Friendship Tours carries high limits of liability insurance that protects the churches that work with us. We adhere to all US government over sight with regard to Financial regulations. We have strict company policies prohibiting the commingling of client deposits. This is a critical component of our integrity. During difficult times some companies will use customer deposits to survive and run out of funds to service their group commitments.  Friendship Tours is a member of the Better Business Bureau with an “A” rating. Friendship Tours has the best buying power due to our long-standing professional relations with all international airlines offering us the lowest airfares with the best connections. Our buying power for ground services is reflected in the prices we are able to offer. Very few

Companies are able to do what we do. How do we do it? Very simple. As a wholesale Tour Operator, we work on large volume of passengers and pass the savings on to our clients.  This is our mission.  This is a ministry entrusted to us by God.  At every turn we will seek to be faithful to you and our mission.  Our

Tagline says it all. “We build lasting relations. One client at a time.”

Christian Group Tours to Israel

Israel is a land steeped in rich history, where Jesus was born, delivered his famous Sermon on the Mount, performed miracles, and was resurrected. There’s no way to describe the joy and wonder of walking the path followed by Jesus, his disciples, and other biblical luminaries with our Israel tour groups. You simply have to see it for yourself.

At Friendship Tours, our goal has always been to enrich the lives of our Christian friends by offering affordable travel to the Holy Land. We want you to experience the awe that can only come from standing in the birthplace of Jesus, following in the footsteps of his disciples, and entering the city of Jerusalem as pilgrims have done for generations.

When you choose Friendship Tours for your Christian tours of Israel, you become our friend. We treat our Isreal tour groups with the utmost care and consideration.

You’ll enjoy all-inclusive pricing, upscale hotel accommodations, and informative and entertaining tours delivered by carefully vetted local guides. Your safety and satisfaction are always our highest priorities.

If you’re ready for 10 days filled with unforgettable sights and experiences that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life, book to join a group tour to Israel today.

What to Expect with Our All-Inclusive Israel Group Tours

There’s no better way to travel to the Holy Land than with an all-inclusive itinerary from Friendship Tours. Planning a trip is not easy, between arranging for transportation, lodgings, and meals, and figuring out what your Israel tour group wants to see once you arrive.

With over four decades of experience, the team at Friendship Tours is more than qualified to do the heavy lifting for you. We’ve established long-term partnerships with vendors all across Israel and beyond in order to provide a worry-free travel experience, so you can enjoy every minute of your trip.

Whether you want to visit the Holy Land as a personal treat, travel with a partner, bring the whole family, or arrange a trip for a large church group, we make the process easy with pre-planned itineraries and affordable pricing.

Don’t forget, we offer one free trip for every five paying travelers, allowing you to bring ministry staff or parishioners that otherwise couldn’t afford to join.

Food, Lodgings, and Transportation

All-inclusive travel, first and foremost, must cover all the basic necessities, including food, lodgings, and transportation. Your final price per person includes airfare from a range of East Coast, Central, and West Coast cities with major airports. You’ll also enjoy two meals a day (lunch not included) and lodgings at safe and comfortable 4-star hotels.

We carefully choose hotels that we have visited and found to meet standards for cleanliness, friendliness, and expected amenities for our Israel tour groups.

These hotels include the Leonardo Club & Lake House (or similar) in Tiberias and the Grand Court Hotel, Ramada Jerusalem Hotel, or Leonardo Jerusalem Hotel (or similar) in Jerusalem. Gratuities and taxes are also covered.

Our philosophy of providing unmatched value at competitive pricing also includes tours and excursions. Travel by deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach and tours led by expert guides are both part of the package with Friendship Tours.

Expert-Guided Tours

When it comes to planning tours to Israel, choosing the right guides is essential to ensuring a fun and fulfilling experience. This is why we take the time to personally interview every guide we employ and endeavor to build long-term relationships for the benefit of everyone involved.

Our guides offer impressive knowledge of history and religion in the area, not to mention a love and appreciation for their native land.

What’s Included in Your 10-Day Itinerary?

Your tour of Israel will take you from the U.S. to Tel Aviv, Tiberias, and Jerusalem, along with Masada, overlooking the Dead Sea, and Qumran, where the famous Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Our renowned Israel group tours include important sites in the lives of Jesus, Peter, Paul, and others connected with His life.

Make Your Dream a Reality Today

If you’ve always dreamed of visiting Cana, the Mount of Beatitudes, the Mt. of Olives, and the Stations of the Cross, among other holy sites, you’ll find what you seek and so much more with Friendship Tours.

You’ve been waiting your whole life to embark on a tour of the Holy Land, and our Christian tours of Israel offer experienced planners, tour managers, and guides who treat you as friends. If you’re ready to experience the power of His life on a 10-day tour of the land He called home, book your tour today!

The experts in the planning and delivery of high quality, worldwide, custom Christian group tours. ©2024 Friendship Tours   P.O.Box 1140, Moorpark, California 93021 All rights reserved Telephone: (800) 213-9155 | CST # 2069059-40 Privacy Policy Booking Terms & Conditions

Recent Blogs

• Tracing Cultural Exchange: Jewish Influences on Greek Culture and Vice Versa in Antiquity
• 7 Christian Destinations Every Believer Should Experience
• What Christians Can Learn From Paul’s Sermon to the Athenians
• A Tour of Athens – The Cradle of Western Civilization and Paul’s Second Missionary Journey
• Why Every Christian Needs To Tour Turkey and Greece

We do not serve individual travelers and we are unable to book you on one of our custom groups. Please do not submit this form if you are not already a part of a group with 15+ people..

Pin It on Pinterest

• https://twitter.com/share?text=WhyFriendshipTours&url=httpswww.friendshiptours.comabout-us
• https://compose.mail.yahoo.com/?body=httpswww.friendshiptours.comabout-us

Username or E-Mail

Forget Password?

Do not have an account?

Already a member.

• Christian Holy Land Tour 8 Days
• Christian Bible Land Tour 8 Days
• Heritage Holy Land Tour 8 Days
• Christian Deluxe Israel Tour 10 Days
• Christian Holy Land-Red Sea Tour 11 Days
• Christian Holy Land & Jordan Tour 11 Days
• Heritage Holy Land & Jordan Tour 12 Days
• Interfaith Israel Tour Highlights 9 Days
• Interfaith Israel Tour Classic 10 Days
• Interfaith Israel Tour Explorer 12 Days
• Interfaith Israel Tour Prestige 13 Days
• Interfaith Israel & Jordan Tour Unity 13 Days
• Interfaith Israel Tour Grande 15 Days
• Holy Land Tour in Private – 8 Days
• Bible Land Tour in Private – 8 Days
• Heritage Holy Land Tour in Private – 8 Days
• Group Tours

Christian Tours to Israel

CHOOSE FROM OVER 30 CHRISTIAN TOURS TO ISRAEL

Faith based, dedicated Christian Tours to Israel and more!

BEST PRICES TO ISRAEL- GUARANTEED!

Price match guaranteed within 48 hours or less.

TOP NOTCH SUPPORT WITH EXPERIENCED AGENTS

Support before, during & after your trip.

Protected: TIBPM – Israel Solidarity Tour 2024 11 Days

Christian holy land tours.

Christian Holy Land Tour

Fun-filled, 8 day – Christian Holy Land Tour experience. A true Christian package, that connects you to the biblical land of Israel.

Christian Bible Land Tour

Take a journey to the land of the bible with the Bible Land Tour, an 8 day program. The tour operate almost every Monday.

Heritage of the Holy Land

Heritage of the Holy Land Tour is a true 8 day Christian Israel tour. The tour is guaranteed to operates almost every Thursday. 

Israel and Jordan Tours

Private Guided Israel Tours

Holy Land Tour in Private – 8 Days

Heritage Holy Land Tour in Private – 8 Days

Christian Bible Land Tour in Private – 8 days

Interfaith Israel Tours

Highlight Israel Tour

Our 9 day Interfaith Israel Tour – Highlights includes tours with Jewish and Christian interests. Guaranteed to operate.

Classic Israel Tour

Our Interfaith Israel tour – Classic 10 days – is combined with Christian and Jewish interests. Guaranteed to operate tour.

Israel and Jordan Tour

Our 13 day Interfaith Israel and Jordan Tour is a fun filled tour with Christian and Jewish interests. Guaranteed to operate tour.

Our Israel Tours

Christian israel tours.

Testimonials

It’s seems like an eternity since we were  in Israel on tour but believe it or not we are still enjoying and digesting the memories of what can only be described as the experience of a lifetime.

Eyal for the past 6/7 years you have been handling my visits to Israel. I don’t know how you do it but every time your tours surpass the previous ones.

I wanted to drop you a line thanking you for the guidance you provided in booking the Holy Land tour with you. Nancy and I along with Rick and Sally enjoyed ourselves and will remember this trip the rest of our lives.

a Life-Changing

Journey to the Holy Land.

Featured tours, click on the date above to view tour info., private tours, group tours.

Explore beautiful Israel with one of our group tours, and experience the historic sites with other travelers like you. Travel with us to places like Caesarea to the Garden Tomb on an immersive, unforgettable tour of Israel.  Take a look at the current tours we have available, and check back often as more are regularly added.

Interested in hosting a tour for your church or organization? PREMIER Israel will work with you to customize a trip that best fits your group. Please contact us for more information: [email protected].  We can't wait for you to join us!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

As you explore Israel, there are some basics we would like to cover to make sure you have the best trip possible. What to know before you go!

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

THANKS FOR SUBSCRIBING!

Welcome to Your Israel Christian Tour

You are a click away from fulfilling your life’s dream – a tour of Israel with the most dedicated, professional and experienced Christian tour operator.

Israel Christian Tours mission is to provide our customers with the most comprehensive spiritual and fun Holy Land experience while keeping our prices unbeatable.

Join one of our tour packages and explore Israel with our superb tour guides, all experts in the history of Christianity in the Holy Land. Stay in the best hotels, see and visit more and most importantly – we are here for you throughout the tour.

The 1# Christian Tour Operator in Israel!

• Over 40 Years of Experience
• The Most Knowledgeable and Attentive Tour Guides – Each of our guides is an authority to Christian history of the Holy Land.
• The Highest Standards of Travel Services – Including the best hotels and new and luxurious tour buses and minivans.
• The Most Comprehensive Tour Packages – We carefully plan each tour and make sure to update our itineraries according to our customers’  feedback.
• World Class Service – Before, during and even after you tour, we are always here to assist you with any information you may need.

What do we offer?

• Attractive all inclusive Holy Land tour packages with Christian orientation.
• Custom made private tours for small groups and individuals.
• Wonderful Israel Day Tours departing daily from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
• Hotel bookings – for favorite Christian lodging around Israel.

Questions? Contact our travel experts

Contact Us!

I’m Interested in 8 Days Christian Tour Package 11 Days Christian Tour Package 3 Days Jordan and Petra Tour Private Christian Tour Custom Group Tour A day Tour Other

We won’t share your personal information.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Scenes from Our Tours Click on the images and videos to get a glimpse!

Christian Tour Packages

View all packages.

8 Day Heritage of the Holy Land Tour

Follow in the footsteps of Jesus in this wonderful Holy Land tour package. Let the Bible come to life from the hills of the Galilee to the alleys of Jerusalem. Visit the places you only read about, the Sea of Galilee the Dead Sea, Nazareth, Cana, Capenaum and more. Experience the Holy Land in a deep, meaningful and fun way.

• Sea of Galilee
• Mt. Beatitudes
• Qumran caves

11 Days Pilgrim Tour of Israel & Jordan

This pilgrim tour of Israel and Jordan is an extension of our 8 day Heritage of the Holy Land Tour . In addition to the 8 days itinerary in Israel you will get 3 full days of the highlight of Jordan. In Jordan you will visit the beautiful Red City of Petra and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the desert with an exciting jeep safari in Wadi Rum. So hop and join us for for an unforgettable experience of Israel and Jordan.

• Mt. of Beatitudes
• Dead Sea, Israel
• Amman, Jordan
• Jerash, Jordan
• Petra, Jordan
• Wadi Rum jeep safari
• Madaba, Jordan

Private Christian Tours

Looking for an intimate, custom-made christian tour of Israel? We will be happy to tailor-made a tour that will perfectly meet your interests, budget and needs. Our travel adviser, will talk to you, and offer a draft itinerary which you will be able to edit or change, anyway you like.

Custom Christian Group Tours

If you are clergy, a tour operator or even just a family member who wish to lead a group tour to Israel, we will be happy to tailor made a program for your group that will perfectly match your interests, needs and special interests.

And there might be something in it for you….

Christian Day Tours Departing Daily from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem

St. Catherine Monastery Tour from Eilat | Starting at US$159

Early morning pick up from your Eilat hotel. Travel to the Taba border and cross over to Sinai. Travel along the shores of the Red Sea and the across the desert to the St. Catherine monastery, laying at the foot of Mt. Sinai. See the Burning Bush and the Well of Jethro. On our way back to the border, enjoy lunch at one of the sea side restaurants in Nuweiba. Cross the border, drop off at your Eilat hotel.

Jerusalem & Bethlehem | Starting at $106

Discover Jerusalem and Bethlehem, two of the most important Christian sites in the world. In the first half of the day, you will visit the Old City of Jerusalem including all the must see holy sites for Christians. In the second part of the day, you will cross to Bethlehem (about 30 minutes drive) and visit the Church of Nativity and other important Christian Sites. A not-to-be-missed tour.

Petra Tour from Eilat | Starting at $245

Cross the Arava border into Jordan. Drive through Wadi Rum, where Lawrence of Arabia joined and fought with the Bedouins. Visit the magnificent Rose City of Petra. Walk along the Siq up to the Treasury, see the tombs, ancient monuments and the amphitheatre. Stop for a sit-down lunch. Take a short tour of Aqaba , cross the border back into Israel and return to your hotel in Eilat

Nazareth & Galilee Day Tour | Starting at $89

Christianity was born in the Galilee. This wonderful tour will take you through all the major stations in the early life of Jesus. Learn about these places from the most experienced guides, feel the spiritual presence and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Get baptized in the Jordan river or just enjoy the view.

Masada & the Dead Sea Tour | Starting at $108

Travel through the remarkable scenery of the Judean Desert to the lowest place on earth. Take a cable car up to the UNESCO world heritage site - Masada. Visit the magnificent remains of King Herod's fortress and learn first hand of its remarkable history. Finally, enjoy a fun and relaxing afternoon in a private Dead Sea beach resort.

Caesarea, Haifa, Rosh Hanikra & Acre Tour | Starting at $89

A wonderful day tour that explores the rich coastline of Central and Northern Israel. Enjoy a lovely drive along the coast, stopping to visit the ancient ruins of Caesrea, once the capital of the Roman province. See the beautiful Baha'i gardens in Haifa and the magnificent grottoes of Rosh Hanikra, located at the most Northern point in Israel. On the way back, visit the Crusader fortress of Acre with its impressive port and knights halls.

Jerusalem Old & New Day Tour | Starting at $89

Visit the major sites in the Old city of Jerusalem, enjoy the Holy Christian sites and the buzy bazaar, see the ancient Cardo and the Western Wall. Walk along the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

What Our Customers Say

Read more reviews

Follow us on Instagram! @israelchristiantours

Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Pacific Standard Time

• En Español
• Call: 1 800 933 4421

Register for a tour

Christian Church Group Travel Tours to Israel and Holy Land

Christian Leaders Organize and lead others to the Promised Holy Land, the Land of the Bible, now is the time to begin one of the most spiritual and rewarding Christian experiences. Lead and organize your Christian Church group to Israel.

1 Peter 5:2-4

Tour Leaders tour for free* Organize a church group & receive special group rates.

HOLY LAND CHRISTIAN CHURCH GROUP TRAVEL TOUR OF TEN OR MORE PASSENGERS

• Fully Escorted Church Group Tour of Israel
• Signature Designed Holy Land Israel Tour Operated by Us
• Tour All Day with your Church group (some companies only tour half-day)
• *1 Tour Leader / Conductor for every 15 passengers free (i.e., 16th passenger will be free sharing twin room). Applies to land package only, airfare not included
• Stay in a 5 Star Deluxe or 4 Star First Class Hotel Accommodations
• Special visit to Magdala, known as the Home of Mary Magdalene
• Sail on a Boat Ride in the Sea of Galilee
• Stay one Night in the Dead Sea Resort Area
• Dead Sea Spa Gift Products Courtesy of Daniel Dead Sea Hotel for our Guest
• Breakfast Buffet Daily 
• A Special Complimentary St. Peter's Fish Lunch by the Sea of Galilee
• Dinner Daily
• English Speaking Tour Guides that know the Bible and Christian Sites and Teachings
• Professional Tour Guide Certified by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism
• NO ADDED FEES FOR CREDIT CARD PAYMENT

TEN DAY TOUR

• Transfer from Ben Gurion International Airport to your hotel in Tel Aviv.
• Dinner at your hotel.
• Your selection of 5 Star Deluxe or 4 Star First Class hotel accommodations.

Day 3 From Tel Aviv/Jaffa to the Sea of Galilee, Mediterranean coast and the Valley of Armageddon Caesarea / Mt. Carmel / Megiddo / Nazareth/ Sea of Galilee / Tiberias In the morning visit to the Old Town Jaffa , walk through the narrow passages of Old Jaffa, believed to be the oldest port city in the world and where cedars from Lebanon arrived to build Solomon's Temple ( 2 Chronicles 2:16 ), see St. Peter's Church and take a spectacular view of Tel Aviv Shoreline from Jaffa Hilltop. Peter came to Jaffa (Joppa) from Lydda to raise Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead (Acts 9:36-43 ) . While in Jaffa, the apostle stayed at the house of Simon the Tanner . St. Peter's Church  marks the traditional site of Peter’s vision of the Great Sheet (Acts 10:9-16) . Depart Tel Aviv driving north along the coastal plain to Caesarea Maritima (Acts 9:30 Acts 10:24-48) which was the center of early Christians, and capital of Judea under the Romans. Visit the excavations of this ancient city, the Roman theatre and aqueduct, here where Paul made his defense before Festus and King Agrippa prior to his final journey to Rome (Acts 25-26) . We'll stop at Mount Carmel (Muchraka) , where Elijah issued his challenge to the False Prophets (1 Kings 18:16-24) . We continue and enjoy a breath taking panoramic view of Haifa Bay and the Western Galilee region. Continue to Megiddo (Joshua 12:21, 1 Kings 9:15, 2 Kings 23:29 & Revelation 16:16) , identified as the site of Armageddon (Revelation 16) , see the remains from Solomon’s days, view the site where the Battle of Armageddon will be fought (Revelation 16:14-16) . Visit the archaeological excavations at Megiddo , including the well preserved water supply system. Continue along the Jezerel Valley to visit the town of Nazareth (Luke 1:26, Luke 4:16, Luke 4:29 & Matthew 2:23) we will take a beautiful view from the top of Mount Precipice , also known as Mount of Precipitation , or Mount of the Leap of the Lord . It's believed to be the site of the rejection of Jesus (Luke 4:29 Luke 4:30) , continue to the Basilica of Annunciation the church and site that celebrates the news from Gabriel that Mary would give birth to Jesus (Luke 1) . If time permits, and we'll drive to Cana of Galilee where Jesus performed his first public miracle, the turning of water into wine at the wedding feast (John 2:1 John 2:11) , and the Lower Galilee region to the beautiful Sea of Galilee to the town of Tiberias . The hotels situated right on town’s center and the shores of the Sea of Galilee make it possible to walk along the shores of the Sea of Galilee and explore the town of Tiberias. Overnight Sea of Galilee - including Full Buffet Breakfast and Dinner.

• Breakfast at your hotel.
• Professional certified licensed Tour Guide, entrance fees, and attractions per day itinerary.

Day 4 Sea of Galilee, the Upper Galilee and the Golan Heights Magdala / Sail on the Sea of Galilee / Jesus Boat / Golan Heights / Upper Galilee / Caesarea Philippi / St. Peter's Fish Lunch / Yardenit We begin this Holy Land touring day with a visit to Magdala (Matthew 15:39) , known as the home of Mary Magdalene. Here we'll explore a first century Jewish city where Jesus' healed the afflicted, and the oldest excavated synagogue in the Galilee from the time of Jesus' ministry where surely he taught. After we board a wooden boat and sail on as the disciples did 2,000 years ago on the Sea of Galilee where the Lord calmed the storm (Luke 8:22-25) , and where He made one of the most dramatic miracles, walking on water (Mark 6:47-52) , and it was here along the shores of the Sea of Galilee where Jesus appeared for a third time after being raised from the dead, and asked his disciples to throw their net to the right side of the boat and caught many fish, and where the Lord made the disciples breakfast  (John 21) . We'll dock at Kibbutz Nof Ginosar and visit the " Ancient Jesus Boat " the remains of a 2,000 years old boat that was discovered in 1986. This boat was used at the time of Jesus and his disciples. We will drive to the beautiful Golan Heights . Visit Banias - ancient Ceasarea Philippi (Matthew 16:13 and Mark 8:27) where Jesus said “On this rock I will build my Church” (Matthew 16:18) . Continue to the Hula Valley and the Upper Galilee, returning to the Sea of Galilee and visit the baptismal site of Yardenit on the Jordan River, where believers celebrate and some take the opportunity to submerge themselves in the same waters where the Holy Spirit descended like a dove from heaven, when  John the Baptist baptized up out of the water Jesus (Matthew 3:13-17) . Overnight Sea of Galilee– including Full Buffet Breakfast and Dinner.

• Special St. Peter's fish lunch.

Day 5 Jesus early Ministry along the Sea of Galilee, Jordan River Mount of Beatitudes / Tabgha / Capernaum / Beit She'an / Dead Sea Today we'll visit early Jesus Ministry around the Sea of Galilee, visiting Mount of Beatitudes (Matthew 5, Matthew 6, Matthew 7, Matthew 8) where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount , see the famous Church of the Beatitudes  chapel, constructed between 1936 and 1938 by the noted architect Antonio Barluzzi and enjoy the view. Visit Tabgha - the site of the Feeding of the 5,000 and Primacy of Peter (Matthew 13, Mark 33, Mark 45, & John 21) , Church of Multiplication with its 4th Century Mosaic floor, Capernaum ( Matthew 4:13, Matthew 13:54, Matthew 17:24, Luke 7, Mark 1:2, John 4:46 John 4:54) where is believed to have been Jesus' home and the center of his ministry, here we can stand in what is left of the synagogue in which Jesus ministered, and where he preformed many miracles, and it's in Capernaum where Peter’s mother-in-law lived and was healed (Luke 4:38-40) . Journey through the Valley of Beit She'an to the ancient city of Beit She'an (Mark 5:20, Mark 7:31) , view the archeological site. It was here that after defeating Saul and his sons on Mount Gilboa, the Philistines hanged their bodies on the walls of Beth Shean (2 Samuel 21:12-14) , continue through the Jordan Valley past the city of Jericho and arrive to the Dead Sea , the lowest place on earth. Check in at the hotel located at the shores of the Dead Sea, enjoy optional spa treatments and a massage, float on the salty water of the Dead Sea or enjoy a swim in your hotel pool. Overnight Dead Sea- including Full Buffet Breakfast and Dinner.

• Special spa gift products; Dead Sea mineral mud pack and salt pack courtesy of Daniel Dead Sea Hotel.

Day 6 Dead Sea, Masada, Ein Gedi, Qumran, Judean Desert, Jerusalem Today on your Holy Land tour will visit the 1500 feet mountaintop fortress of Masada famous for being the last stronghold of the Jewish rebellion against the Romans. We will ascend to Masada by cable car and discover the first century Synagogue, King Herod’s Bathhouse and other sites atop of Masada, descend and continue to the oasis of Ein Gedi , where David hid in a cave when running from Saul (1 Samuel 23) , it was here that David composed several of his Psalms, next visit to Qumran where a cache of ancient biblical texts the Dead Sea Scroll were discovered in 1947. Continue to the Golden City of Jerusalem , and proceed to a panoramic view of Jerusalem from Mount Scopus , and take time for prayer. Continue to the hotel conveniently located within walking distance from the Old City Jerusalem. Overnight Jerusalem- including Full Buffet Breakfast and Dinner.

Day 7 Old Jerusalem, Temple Mount in Jesus times, Mount of Olives/Kidron Valley/Garden of Gethsemane/Western Wall tunnels (Kotel Tunnels)/Pool of Bethesda/Church of Holy Sepulcher/Via Dolorosa/Christian Quarter From the top of Mount of Olives where the Lord ascended into heaven (acts 1) we will have a view across the Kidron Valley to the Eastern Gate where the prince of Peace will enter (Ezekiel 44) . We pass by Pater Noster Church standing on the traditional site of Christ's teaching of the Lord's Prayer (Luke 11:2-4) , and visit Dominus Flevit where "The Lord wept" as he beheld the Holy City (Luke 19:41-44) . Through Palm Sunday Road proceed down to the Gethsemane (Mark 14:32, John 18:1 & Matthew 26:36)  where you will see 2,000 year old Olive trees that date back to the time of Christ. In the Garden of Gethsemane the place that Jesus prays (Luke 22:39) and his disciples customarily visited, which allowed Judas to find him on that fateful night of his arrest (Luke 22:47-52) , and it's in Gethsemane where an angel from heaven appears to strengthen Jesus  (Luke 22:43) , and where he found his disciples sleeping and awakes them and tells them to get up and pray (Luke 22:46) . Then to the Western Wall - The holiest site in Judaism and one of the original walls that retained the Temple. We will visit the Western Wall Tunnels running along the base of the Western Wall will lead us through the Second Temple era and reveal the amazing construction of the Temple Mount , water supply and Roman street where our Lord was led to judgment. Continue to St. Anne Church and the Pool of Bethesda , where Jesus performed the famous miracle of healing of the paralytic (John 5) . We will walk the Stations of the Cross - the Via Dolorosa including Station 2 Judgment Hall of Pilate (John 18:33) , located at the Church of the Flagellation and Church of the Condemnation and Imposition of the Cross , all the way to the final Station 14 inside  Church of the Holy Sepulcher (Matthew 27, Matthew 33:57, Matthew 28:10) . In the afternoon you will enjoy time to shop the colorful bazaars (markets). We'll join the prayer at the Western Wall , and after return to the Hotel for Shabbat Dinner. Overnight Jerusalem– including Full Buffet Breakfast and Dinner.

Day 8 Jerusalem Old and New City Mt. Zion / Upper Room / King David Tomb / Jewish Quarter / Ein Kerem / Bethlehem / Church of the Visitation/Church of the Nativity / Shepherd’s Field / Garden Tomb We begin the day going to Mount Zion , visit the Upper room (Luke 22) , Lord’s Supper, visit King David Tomb , and walk through the Jewish Quarter . Drive through the New City and pass the Knesset (Israel Parliament) and continue to Ein Karem , the birthplace of John the Baptist (Luke 1:57-80) , the one to announce the coming of the Lord (Isaiah 40:3) . Visit the Church of the Visitation which commemorates the visit made by Mary the mother of Jesus', to Elizabeth , the mother of John the Baptist (Luke 1:39-56) , then continue to Bethlehem where Joseph traveled there (Luke 2:1-7) with Mary whom was pregnant, and where Jesus was born (Matthew 2:1-5) , and visit the Church of Nativity . Proceed to see the Shepherd’s Field  where an angel appeared to announce the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:8-20) . In the afternoon visit The Garden Tomb , to celebrate the resurrection of Christ (1 Corinthians 15, Luke 24:6-7, Mark 16:5-7) with a time for prayer. Enjoy a evening farewell dinner at the hotel. Overnight Jerusalem- including Full Buffet Breakfast and Dinner.

Day 9 Enjoy free day in Jerusalem later in the day transfer to Ben Gurion airport according to your flight schedule After Breakfast, and by 12 noon, Check out from your hotel and store your luggage at the hotel storage room to enjoy free day in Jerusalem. Passengers booked 4 Stars First class hotels ,in Jerusalem the Grand Court hotel within walking distance to the Old City. Passengers booked 5 stars Deluxe hotels, in Jerusalem The Leonardo Plaza hotel within walking distance from the Old City and the center of West Jerusalem. You can visit again the Holy sites and the colorful bazaars, Yad Vashem Israel’s memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, the Davidson Center at the Western Wall, Ben Yehuda street with shopping stores, restaurant and coffee shops, Mahaneh Yehuda market, with authentic Jerusalem Restaurants, and food markets. Explore on your own the newly renovated Israel Museum and Shrine of the Book .

Transfer from the lobby of your hotel to Ben Gurion International Airport 4 hours Prior to flight departure.

• Transfer from your Jerusalem hotel to the Ben Gurion International Airport for your departure flight back home or to your next destination.

If your flight departs in the morning you will arrive back in America the same day of your departure.

If your flight departs in the night you will arrive back to America the following day of your departure.

HOLY LAND CHURCH GROUPS TO ISRAEL

Prices are land package prices based on double occupancy and are per person in U.S. dollars inclusive of all taxes.

*1 Tour Leader / Conductor (Passengers) for every 15 passengers free (i.e., 16th passenger will be free sharing twin room). Applies to land package only, airfare not included.

Not included services in our tour rates: 1. Tips to guide/driver and hotel/restaurant staff. 2. Personal extras or meals not mentioned above. 3. Lunches.

Create your own Holy Land Group or Join other Christians on our Holy Land Tour Departures.

be notified of open spots

Fill out the form below to be notified of any open availability for the standard package.

How interested are you in the Passion Holy Land Tour?

Although registration is closed, there may be opportunity for spots to open for the Standard Package. If you would like to be notified of open spots, please click the button below.

Experience the land of Jesus

Join us for a one-of-a-kind journey through Israel hosted by Louie and Shelley Giglio and the Passion team.

Review the package options available for Passion Holy Land.

Review the frequently asked questions to learn more about the details of Passion Holy Land.

See all of the potential sites that will be on our journey from Jerusalem to the Sea of Galilee.

Have more questions? Send our team and email and someone on our team will be in touch!

Registrations for the Passion Holy Land Tour are currently closed. If you would like to be notified of future Passion Holy Land Tours you can let us know here .

These will be life-shaping days as we experience many of the places where Jesus walked and ministered throughout His life on Earth. The Passion Holy Land Tour is set apart from other trips because it includes special worship moments and teaching from the Passion team throughout the day along with expert guides. This is a unique experience! During our time in Israel, we will visit sites such as Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee, the Mount of Olives, the Dead Sea, the Valley of Elah and so many more. You are invited to join us as we journey and explore the land of the Bible. We are confident that this experience will deepen your walk with Jesus and transform the way you read Scripture and worship.

Pastor Louie and Shelley, together founded Passion Conferences in 1997, uniting college-aged people in events around the globe—most recently gathering students at Passion 2022 in Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Pastor Louie is the Visionary Architect and Original Visionary of the Passion Movement, comprised of Passion Conferences, Passion City Church, Passion Publishing and sixstepsrecords, and the founder of Passion Global Institute. Shelley is the Chief Strategist, Director of Label Operations and Artist Management for sixstepsrecords, co-founder of the Passion Movement, and leads The GROVE, a gathering for the Women of Atlanta.

Additional on-site Teaching

Throughout our journey, you'll encounter people, sites, cultures, and history of the Scriptures in a completely new way. At each location , you'll have the opportunity to hear from Pastor's from the Passion team as they unpack the significance of where you're standing. These are powerful moments as we open the Scriptures together and read the Biblical accounts of each location.

Come & See

All pricing options include the following Standard Package Items:

Worship Moments with Passion

Onsite teachings by the Passion Team

Professionally guided touring of the Holy Land

Sailing on the Sea of Galilee

Accommodation in middle-class hotels including porterage

Daily buffet-style breakfast and dinner at the hotels

Daily lunches on route

All entrance fees, gratuities, and taxes

Air-conditioned transportation by deluxe coach

Access to tour information on the custom Passion Holy Land app

Airport shuttle bus transfer for arrival and departure

International round-trip group airfare available for additional cost

Included in the Standard Package:

Our standard package includes accommodations in middle-class hotels including porterage. Meals are included throughout our time together with breakfast and dinner available at the hotels and daily lunches on route. While on route, air-conditioned transportation by deluxe coach will be available. The standard package also includes airport shuttle bus transfer for arrival and departure.

The standard package of the Passion Holy Land Tour is full. Please fill out the form below to be notified of any availability.

Experience the Holy Land with upgraded amenities and accommodations as well as exclusive moments with the Passion team.

All Standard Package items PLUS:

5 Star hotel accommodations(based on double occupancy)

Transportation by VIP coach

Small group touring experience (40 persons or less per coach)

Unique dining experiences in local restaurants

Unique dinner experience with the Passion team

Sunset small group sailing on Sea of Galilee

on-site Teaching

You are about to embark on an incredible journey, encountering the people, sites, culture, and history of the Scripture in a completely new way. The goal of these days is to let your eyes rest on the very places where Jesus lived and traveled, to soak in the beauty and to stand in awe and wonder of our God. We want you to experience the Word. Each moment will build upon the other and culminate into what could be the most significant trip of your lifetime. Embrace the journey! *SAMPLE ITINERARY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Breathe it in. You’ve arrived in the Holy Land. Over the next week, around every corner, scripture will come to life. What you once read in black and white, will now be in full color as you stand in the very places where these historic moments occurred. After your arrival at Ben Gurion International Airport, you will drive north along Israel’s coastal plains and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean, enjoy a relaxing dinner and check into your hotel. Get some rest, your week is just beginning.

The Galilee region was the center of Jesus’ ministry. This is the land where Jesus grew up, showed his power in miracles and where he called the disciples to follow him. Today, this region of the Holy Land is still very untouched and looks much like it would have in the days of Jesus. During your time in Galilee, you will follow in Jesus' footsteps while soaking in the beauty of the land, watching the sunset on the surrounding hills, and walk quaint towns and powerful historic sites that bring the Bible to life. You will sit on hillsides where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount, visit Capernaum and Magdala, and worship on a wooden boat as you sail the very waters that Jesus walked upon. You will also get to experience the Jezreel Valley, which has a long and varied history throughout both the Old and the New Testaments. Possible Sites: Mount of Beatitudes Capernaum Boat ride Sea of Galilee Mount Arbel Magdala Caesarea Philippi Mount Precipice / Nazareth Lookout Panoramic view over the Jezreel Valley/ Valley of Armageddon Mount Carmel

There is nowhere in the world like Jerusalem. History is found in every crevice of this ancient city where three of the world’s major religions overlap. The Bible has nearly 800 references to Jerusalem - called “the City of our God” (Ps. 48:1,8) Jesus traveled here as a child to worship in the Temple, and it was here as an adult that He preached and healed the hurting. Ultimately, it was here in Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected! For the Believer, your time in this ancient city will light up your heart and set your faith on fire as the story of scripture comes into clear view. You will explore the four quarters of the walled city, wander through the alleyways that kings and prophets once walked and kneel in the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus also prayed. You will have time to visit the colorful markets and the ancient Roman roads now filled with shops brimming with Middle Eastern artistry and discover first-hand the collision of Jerusalem’s unique mix of past and present, ordinary and extraordinary. Possible Sites: Mount of Olives View over the Temple Mount and the Old City Garden of Gethsemane The Pools of Bethesda at the complex of the St. Anna Church The Praetorium, Pilate’s Palace Church of the Holy Sepulcher Western Wall Southern Temple Steps Hulda Gates, Entrance gates to the Temple

The Apostle Paul was imprisoned in Caesarea Maritima and eventually sailed to Rome from this port, taking with him the Gospel message that would reach the world.  Explore the wonders of the past once built along these shores by King Herod, a great builder of the ancient world. Possible Sites: Caesarea Maritima Via Maris – “the Way of the Sea”

The Judean Desert known as the wilderness is bordered by mountains in the west and the Dead Sea to the east and is drastically different than the Galilee region. The desert has provided a refuge and hiding place, solitude and isolation to many including David as he fled from Saul and is the backdrop for many of the psalms he penned. It was here in the wilderness that Jesus fasted for 40 days, and John the Baptist lived and began his ministry. You will travel on to Masada, float in the mineral rich water of the Dead Sea and visit the excavation site of the Qumran caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Possible Sites: ‍ Masada Dead Sea Qumran

In the time of the Judges and the Kings, the Valley of Elah formed the border between the Israelite cities in the Judean mountains and the Philistines in the plain. The young shepherd David began his military career in the Valley of Elah, by defeating the Philistine champion Goliath with a well-aimed stone from a slingshot. Here in this valley Goliath met his match!

The Passion Holy Land Experience is coming to a close but we pray you are heading home with a full heart, a new nearness to Jesus, and a deep appreciation for the unchanging and powerful Word of God.

on the journey

Additional info.

The Passion Holy Land Tour is open to everyone! You are not required to be a US citizen to register.

Registration for the Tour is done entirely online. You can register here .

A valid passport through September 23, 2023, with at least one blank page is required to participate in the Holy Land Tour. There are no exceptions to this policy as it is required by the Israeli government. Although there is not a minimum requirement required by the Embassy of Israel, airlines may decline boarding if a traveler has less than six months validity on his or her passport. A travel visa is not required. To read more about traveling to Israel, please click here .

Registration pricing is based on 2 people per room / double occupancy. If you are traveling alone, you will have the option to book your own room at a higher package price or be placed with a roommate at no additional cost.

The Passion Holy Land Tour will take place from March 6, 2023, through March 13, 2023. In order to arrive in Israel in time for the start of the tour group flights will depart on March 5, 2023. You will be in-country from March 6 through March 13. Group flights will depart after 1:00a on March 13.

A $150 deposit is due at the time of registration for Standard and Deluxe Land Only packages. If you are adding flights to your registration package, an additional deposit of $150 is due at the time of registration. There are a few other add-on opportunities, depending on which package you decide, on that also require deposits.

We require that 50% of your balance be paid by October 22, 2022. The balance must be paid in full by January 6, 2023, which is 60 days prior to departure. You are welcome to make payments at any time through your user account. The credit card used for your deposit payment will be charged automatically on the dates provided if the correct amount is not received by 11:59p EST on each of the days listed in the payment schedule. Please note that all payments made are nonrefundable.

Air-conditioned transportation will be available by bus to and from the airport, hotels, and sites. The Standard package includes transportation by deluxe coach. The Deluxe package includes transportation by VIP luxury coach. You will have access to free Wi-Fi on most buses. Please note that not all tour buses will be equipped with restrooms. We will stop throughout the tour for restroom breaks, but it is possible to go a few hours without access to a restroom.

You can request your roommate at the time of registration or later through your registration account. Please keep in mind that requests can only be guaranteed when registrations are booked together as a 2 guest registration. For additional questions and requests, please contact us here .

The Passion Holy Land Tour is recommended for adults age 18 and older. Please keep in mind that registration pricing for minors is the same as adults and a signed letter of consent will be required. Please also note that children younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. The content, travel, schedule, and groups are best suited for high school students or older.

Once you complete your registration, you will be asked to claim your Passion Holy Land user account from RegFox. You will be able to make payments at any time through your account, as well as update your personal information.

Travel insurance is not required but is strongly recommended. We encourage you to consider travel insurance to cover any unexpected costs incurred before or during your trip. A travel insurance plan can help to protect your trip investment with coverages related to flight delays, travel injuries and illnesses, unpredictable weather, lost or delayed baggage, and more. To read about the benefits and see the purchase options, click  here .

If you want to book your package requesting a roommate and you don’t know the name of your companion, you can leave that selection blank. If you want to book a 2 guest package and you do not know the name of your companion, please contact us here .

The Passion Holy Land Tour is designed to deepen your faith as you experience the land of the Bible. We will have very full days that can consist of up to 2-3 miles of walking per day. The schedule doesn’t provide for much flexibility, as we want to make the most of our time together. Because of this, we recommend that you wait to bring your children until they are in high school for the best experience possible.

Check payments are not accepted for the Holy Land Tour. Payments can be made anytime through your user account. Please contact us here with any further questions.

There are no specific immunizations or medications that are recommended or required for travel to Israel, but you are welcome to connect with your primary care physician regarding their recommendations for you individually. Please keep in mind that you can buy the equivalent of most standard over-the-counter medicines in Israel.

We would also encourage you to inform your health insurance provider that you will be traveling out of the country and to determine your coverage and medical care options while in Israel.

Lodging is based on double occupancy, the rate to register as a single guest is higher because you will receive your own room. If you would like to be placed with a roommate, you can indicate this preference on the registration form.

You do not have to live in the United States in order to join the Tour. If you are joining us from outside of the United States, you will need to purchase your own flights as our offered flight itineraries only include domestic departures from the United States. Please plan to arrive in Tel Aviv on March 6 by 6p so that you can join the group for travel from the airport. Your departure flight should be on March 13 from Tel Aviv at any time after 2:00a.

Yes, you can switch your package type once you register as long as space permits in the Tour. Please note that once you switch your package type, you may not be able to switch back should you change your mind. Please contact us here if you would like to make changes to your reservation.

It is not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result for entry and Israel does not require COVID-19 vaccinations for entry.

Yes, you can add a roommate to your registration, which would lower your overall cost. You can add your roommate through your user account. Any rooming and roommate changes must be made by January 1, 2023.

The Passion Holy Land Tour is designed as a journey, so the best experience for you will be to stay for the whole time. However, we do understand the possibility of needing to adjust your schedule. Please note that if you arrive late or leave early, we will not be able to assist with ground transportation to and from the airport. We are also unable to offer partial discounts based on an abbreviated tour schedule should you need to arrive late or leave early. Please contact us directly for more information.

All deposits and other payments made are non-refundable. However, for registrations of two or more deposits and payments are transferrable for a $100 fee for the first guest in your group, and a $50 fee for the second and third guests in your group. If you have any questions regarding your registration, please contact us here .

We will provide a list of recommended items to all trip participants before March. We recommend wearing long pants and bringing a jacket each day, as some holy sites will have stricter clothing requirements (arms and legs covered). Please plan to bring comfortable shoes or sneakers, as there will be a lot of walking.

We believe that you’ll have the best experience if you plan to participate in each of the planned activities with your group. However, if you prefer to schedule an alternate activity at some point during the trip, you are welcome to do so. Please keep in mind that transportation and other accommodations will be your responsibility if you choose to divert from the group.

While in the Holy Land we will be divided into multiple Passion Holy Land touring groups for the duration of the tour. All groups will have the same experience. These groups are generally based on inbound flight arrival times. If you are organizing your own flights, we recommend selecting flights with similar arrival times as your friends. We will do our best to honor all group placement requests, but it is not guaranteed that we will be able to place you in the same group should you arrive at a different time.

The best way to ensure that you and your friends will be placed in the same touring group is to sign up under one reservation with the same package type and flight selection. Participants must have the same package type in order to be in the same group.

We expect daily temperatures in March to range from 60-70°F. Please note that several sites are located outside with full exposure to the sun, so we recommend bringing sunscreen.

Because we will have attendees joining us from all over the United States, we will not be hosting predeparture meetings. We will provide all attendees with helpful scriptures and resources in the months leading up to the trip to help prepare for our time together in the Holy Land.

Most activities will include walking so participants will be walking approximately 2-3 miles per day. We would recommend wearing comfortable shoes or sneakers each day. Most walks will be lightly to moderately strenuous and there will be breaks throughout the day as you travel to and from sites.

Please plan to arrive in Tel Aviv on March 6 by 6p so that you can join the group for travel from the airport. Your departure flight should be on March 13 from Tel Aviv at any time after 2:00a.

While Israel is a very safe country to visit and tour, your safety is a top priority. We take all necessary safety precautions, including remaining in contact with local law enforcement throughout the trip. Please visit the U.S. Department of State’s website for all current information on traveling to Israel.

Israel Standard Time (IST) is the standard time zone in Israel. It is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Tap water is safe to drink in Israel, but bottled water will also be available.

Yes, you will have access to free Wi-Fi on the buses and in some hotels. Many cafes and restaurants also offer complementary Wi-Fi. Some hotels will have Wi-Fi available for hotel guests at customary prices.

Please check with your phone service provider to determine if you will need to purchase an International plan to use your phone in country. You can also find international plan information online for AT&T , T-Mobile , and Verizon .

You can use your debit or credit card to obtain shekels at ATMs throughout Israel. You can also use American Express, MasterCard and Visa cards at most Israeli hotels, restaurants and stores.

Almost all hotel rooms are equipped with hairdryers, and all have shaver sockets. For other appliances, Israel's electricity is 220V A/C, single phase 50-cycles; 110V-220V transformers can be used. Israeli outlets have three prongs, but European two-prong adapters usually work. Please click here for an option found on Amazon.

• Register Now
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Email Updates
• Privacy Policy
• Passion Conferences
• Passion City Church
• Passion Publishing
• Passion Resources
• sixstepsrecords

12-Day Biblical Tour of Israel

Experience the Holy Land firsthand on this 12-day tour of Israel. Bring Scripture to life and deepen your faith in new ways.

REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED.

11-Day Biblical Tour of Israel

October 26 - november 5, 2024.

Experience the Holy Land firsthand on this 11-day tour of Israel in October of 2024. Bring Scripture to life and deepen your faith in new ways. Click to view the official brochure for a day-by-day itinerary of sites and activities you’ll experience.

Enter Tour Code Hope24   to book your tour.

*Register by July 26 to receive the “early bird” rate.

Gethope App

Join the mission.

PLEASE NOTE: IMMERSION Staff will be out of office Sept. 11-15. After submitting a form, use the link in your email to schedule a call for Sept. 18-22!

Service opportunities assigned to each community or program are not guaranteed to be part of every trip. Fill out an interest form to learn more.

• Mission Trips 1-2 Weeks
• Immersion 1, 3 & 6 Months
• Summer Internships
• Training Resources
• RISING Education Program
• Micro-Loans
• SIGN IN MyMission ACCOUNT

Israel-Palestine Mission Trips

Serve in the Holy Land.

Fully immerse yourself on a totally different Christian mission trip to Israel. Whether you're a young adult, looking to take your family on an Israel mission trip, or planning a church-wide Christian Israel trip, you are invited to come and experience the Holy Land from a new perspective. Serve the local church, empower local leaders, and gain a deeper context as you serve, learn, and grow together. Check out all of EM's mission trips to Israel-Palestine below!

We are not currently accepting groups or individuals for the Holy Land missions programs. Please join us in prayer for the people of Israel-Palestine. Read EM's response here.

You must have a group size of at least 6 members to join this trip. Please view the Small Team trips or call our Servicing Department for more options at 888-475-6414 .

View Small Team Trips

Which trip are you interested in?

Individuals (age 18-30):, verify your email address, which position are you applying for.

• Our Company
• Meet Our Tour Guides
• Travel Blog
• Photo Gallery
• Travel Agents

• All Israel Tours
• Plan a Church Group
• Christian Tours to Israel
• Pastor's Fam Tour
• Jewish Tours to Israel
• Day Tours to Israel
• General Tours to Israel

Other Tours

• Before you travel
• Israel Travel Guide
• Travel Protection
• Travel Tips
• More Reviews

Home / Plan a Church Group

Plan a Private Church Group with America Israel Tours

Welcome pastors and church leaders! Every year America Israel Tours creates customized tours to the Holy Land for hundreds of church congregations. We uniquely design each tour to fit the specific needs and desires of each individual group.

Call us today and let's discuss the different options and discounts available for church groups and church leaders. Taking your congregation to Israel will be one of the most inspiring journeys you can offer to your church.

Private Group Benefits:

• Your group will enjoy discounted and competitive tour pricing.
• As a tour leader, you will receive incentives and discounts. *
• We will customize a dedicated landing page, flyer and more to help your marketing efforts and get the word out. View example
• Free airfare quotes to travelers joining the group.
• A dedicated travel specialist will coordinate your tour, guide you through the process and assist you until you're on your way to the Holy Land.
• Will will customize your itinerary ( sample itinerary ) so you can visit only the sites and do the activities that will be of interest to your group.
• For more information, request a quote today and one of our travel specialists will contact you to start planning your tour!
• Request a Quote

We take your privacy seriously. We’ll never sell or rent your information.

We had an amazing tour. Thanks for all the exceptional arrangements. Shlomo was an outstanding guide; he is a phenomenal historian and cared for our group well. Whael not only drove the bus but served our passengers. The facsimile of the Dead Sea fragment of Gen.1 is on my wall and displayed proudly. AIT hit it out of the park. The accommodations were excellent. Most importantly, our pilgrims had an incredible learning and spiritual experience."

November 21, 2018

I am writing to commend your company for a well-structured program, dynamic, vibrant, highly resourceful and professional guide and driver that have become the trademark of your company. The hotels are first class, the food classic and the entire arrangement great. I want to believe that you are the best and most proficient tour company to the Holy land. Please note that the guide – Mr. Yoram Black and driver Nisan provided for our last tour have been exceptionally professional, resourceful, humble, painstaking and courteous throughout the tour. It is the consensus of the entire members of the group that they should be exceptionally recognized by your company. They are both great assets and image booster for your company. They are the only option for our next tour of 2019. Perhaps I should mentioned that about 30 members are currently ready to register for the next tour slated for April 27, 2019. I will be delighted if you can please provide us with the cost and applications for immediate processing. May I also, once again, request for your indulgence to provide us with Yoram Black as the Guide and Nisan as the driver. Thanks and God bless."

May 18, 2018

As pastor and tour leader of our church’s first holy land tour, I felt a huge responsibility for finding the best possible tour company for our trip. I wanted the best possible guidance, the best accommodations, the best food, the best transportation and driver, and the best tour guide ever. I carefully researched the many holy land tour companies and chose America Israel Tours over all the others. My expectations were extremely high. And America Israel succeeded and exceeded in every possible category. From my initial inquiry, Noam, Pauline, Regan, George and the whole team were on top of everything. Phone calls and messages were promptly returned. They always remembered me as well as the church and family issues I was facing at the time. They were genuinely interested in even the smallest detail and worked diligently to make sure our trip was just as we wanted it to be, answering questions and making suggestions. I never felt neglected or alone or pressured at any step. When we arrived in Israel, we were met by not one but three representatives of the company. Our scheduled tour guide Barak had become ill and admitted to the hospital while we were in route and unaware of the situation. They took care of the problem without a hitch. They were invaluable to me personally as the airline had lost my luggage and without their assistance I am not sure if I could have handled the paperwork that Israel requires. Marcia of AIT was on the phone with me immediately reassuring me about all the arrangements. A substitute guide, Onet, was there for our first day and absolutely wonderful. One would not have even known there had ever been a problem. They even made sure I got toiletries and clothes which was great since my luggage didn’t show up for four days. Not really a problem, and the airline reimbursed everything and then some. Our new tour guide Yeshay (Jesse) Savag was there to greet us the next morning and was spectacular. We fell in love with him and want him for our next trip. We also fell in love with our bus driver Albert Elgrabli. We always felt safe and protected with him at the wheel. He is not only a great driver but knows everyone in Israel. We want him next time too. Our bus was one week old! The accommodations were perfect and perfectly located. And the buffets exceptional; best food and variety ever and I have traveled the world. Israel was beautiful and the people were friendly and welcoming. AIT was always available and responsive. They took us to the airport and had someone to walk us through security. Five stars are not enough to give them."

May 14, 2018

We went on the trip of a lifetime and AIT made it all possible. 35 members from our church were treated with every courtesy, Our guide was Yoram Black - the best! He was knowledgeable about all the places we toured and had a great sense of humor. In my opinion, he made the trip special. Our accommodations were wonderful, the food was great and the transportation and our driver, Modi, was superb. If you are considering making a trip to the Holy Land, there is only one agency to contact - American Israel Travel!"

May 4, 2018

Third time using AIT and I must say this truly was the best trip of all. Getting to see new sights was such a blast. Our guide did a wonderful job as well as our bus driver. The itinerary did get changed a little bit, but it always worked out in our favor. Our hotels got changed at the last minute due to the hotel chain overbooking, but AIT not only got us placed in comparable hotels they also took care of 3 of our lunches as we traveled out and about. AIT showed me they truly care about their customers and I would recommend them to anyone."

We just came back from our 2nd trip to Israel-- and AIT handled both of them. After our first trip, we enjoyed it so much, we wanted to return-- and discovered that 18 of our friends from our church wanted to go too, so we called AIT. They took care of EVERYTHING: guides, buses, hotels, tours. Noam and his staff both in the US and in Israel are top notch, supremely knowledgable, and hugely helpful. Our trip was a private group, so we had the liberty of making changes. Noam was super helpful in assisting us in setting up a perfect visit for our group. BTW, AIT's prices are very competitive, but the attention, facilities, guides, and transportation are top-notch-- and way better for the price than what we observed for other tour companies. Can't recommend AIT enough!"

March 24, 2018

Our experience first live Calvary Chapel with GLENDALE and la Palma churches too (a year ago February 2017) was a great experience, the tour guide was great, the bus driver was great, the timing was great, the hotels were great, everything was wonderful."

January 26, 2018

I am so satisfied with the professionalism and excellent service provided by America Israel Tours. I have never experience with any other company, such an excellent service as America Israel Tours provided for my group of 50 people. I highly recommend this agency to everyone that is looking for a great pilgrimage fill with joy, professional expertise and excellent service overall. This co. provides Top of the Line Tours. I cannot wait to go again on my next tours with America Israel Tours."

May 19, 2017

We had a wonderful trip. Started from Egypt to Sinai, it is designed well, as we were crossing from Egypt to Jorden and going from one place to another; the journey was well organizer. The tour men, they were very knowledgeable."

April 13, 2017

My wife and I were attracted to the "Into the Promised Land" tour because we had not seen a Holy Land tour being offered anywhere with all the options AIT had put together. And we were not disappointed. Everything was a First Class experience--the dining, the lodging, the guides, the transportation and especially the Price. Thanks, AIT, for practicing what you preached!"

July 10, 2015

It was an amazing experience for my wife and I. Your tour guide, the hotels, the food, and the places visited surpass all our expectations. As pastors, the tour guide, major Rahanan, has a special insight of the Jewish roots that connects in harmony with the Christian faith. He was is very informative and extremely courteous gentleman with everyone all time. Whenever we return with a group, we will definitely ask for him. All the Leonardo hotels were an exquisite treat. We were spoiled with the best organic food. The selection and timing of the sights gave us a sense of following the footsteps of Jesus. We got tons more compare to the price we paid. Thank you so much for your professionalism, we are so glad to connect our first trip to the Holy Land with your company."

June 20, 2015

I highly recommend traveling to Israel. The tour was succinctly planned. Not only did we see the awesome landscape on the tour bus, we had an opportunity to speak to the people of Israel, visit a museum, a center for seniors, frequented historical sites and too many other places to mention. It was a wonderful experience. I felt completely safe. I never experienced being fearful or nervous while I was there. Israel is a beautiful place and I long to return there real soon."

May 18, 2015

From a well planned itinerary to an outstanding guide (Danny), our Israel tour was all that I had hoped. The hotels were nice and our guide's knowledge and ability to adapt to changing conditions (it snowed in Jerusalem while we were there) made our tour very rewarding. We felt safe the entire time and even stayed an additional week on our own in Jerusalem following the tour. Never did we feel that we were in danger, even when roaming around on our own. I'm very satisfied and plan to organize a return trip with AIT."

May 4, 2015

I took 21 other people with me to israel last month and we had a wonderful time. America Israel travel is awesome. This now makes two trips to Israel I have used them for and look forward to using them again."

April 22, 2015

Ready to plan your Group? Let's Talk!

Call us today at 1-877-248-8687 or click here to request a call.

Why should I lead my church group to Israel?

A trip to the Holy Land is the single greatest supplement to the study of God's Word. To walk in the footsteps of Jesus will change the way you and your congregants study the Bible for the rest of your life. Just imagine: you will walk, pray, weep, and worship in the very places that you have read about all your life. From a baptismal service in the Jordan River... to reading, "Do you love me" along the shores of the Sea of Galilee...to an unforgettable Lord's Supper Service at the Garden Tomb! Well, it's pretty hard to imagine, and yet you and your congregation will actually experience all this and more. Make this journey with America Israel Tours and see why there is nothing that enriches your relationship with God and your understanding of the scriptures like a trip to the Holy Land. Get ready for a truly blessed experience.

Why should I count on America Israel Tours for my group tour?

America Israel Tours knows exactly what you need to lead your flock to Israel. We have worked with hundreds of tour leaders in delivering all inclusive Israel tour packages that include: air transport, accommodations, ground transportation, meals, sightseeing, Government-licensed, biblically oriented, professional tour guides, and coordination of events and special activities. We take care of all the details so that you can fully focus your attention on shepherding your group. Count on our expertise to lead you and your group on a spiritual journey through the Holy Land.

These are a few of the church groups traveling with us:

Read our customer reviews:

Check us out at:.

America Israel Travel

Israel travel packages.

• Browse Israel Tours
• Christian Tours
• Jewish Tours
• General Tours

AIT Information

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Greece & Turkey Tour
• Tierra Santa Tours

While we continue to pray for our entire AIT team in Israel, as well as their families and all innocents affected in Israel, we remain thankful for all passengers who returned home with us safely. We will be updating each of our passengers on the status of their October 2023 tours. Please check your email for updates from our Staff, and email or call us at 877-248-8687 with any questions, or if you don’t think you have received an email update(s). We appreciate your patience while we work with our many passengers.

JOURNEY TO ISRAEL

Joelene and I are blessed to invite you to travel with us to Israel, the Land of the Bible, for a life-changing experience. Ever since our previous trip in 2019, we have been anticipating the opportunity to return and share spiritual moments with our Journey Church family. This will be our fifth visit to Israel and, as you may know, each visit is more exciting, more enlightening, and more captivating.

Every time you read about places such as the Sea of Galilee, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Mount of Olives, Bethlehem, or Megiddo (site of the future battle of Armageddon), the Word of God will come alive for you in ways you can’t imagine. To walk in the footsteps of Jesus and other heroes of the faith will be moments you never forget.

You’ll encounter many heroes of the faith we’ve come to know in the Old and New Testaments, notables, that until now, you’ve only read about. Witness a 1st century synagogue in Magdala, hometown of Mary Magdalene. Enjoy a Bedouin desert experience , cherish a meaningful baptismal service in the Jordan River. Touch the ancient stones of the city where King David ruled and see the place where he fought Goliath.

We would love to share this great opportunity with you and believe it will be the trip of a lifetime for every person who joins us.

We look forward to traveling with you.

Pastors Kevin & Joelene Taylor

TRIP DATES:  Israel: October 24 – November, 2 2022 Turkey Pre-Trip:  October 21 – November 2, 2022, arriving in Israel on the same day as Israel-only participants.    June 6th Orientation Link: https://jrnychurch.com/events/journey-to-israel-2022-meeting-2/

UPCOMING MEETINGS

Authentic Community

Enthusiastic Service

Offering Hope

Passionate Worship

Adoption / Foster Care

Christian Life School

Encore Senior Adults

Financial Peace University

Journey Kids

Journey Men

Journey Ministry College

Journey Open

Journey Women

Journey Young Adults

Journey Youth

Serve The City

Week of Serving

Event Location

All Campus Celebrations

All Campuses

Beach Park Campus

Beach Park, Burlington, Mount Pleasant Campus

Ben Diamond Park

Birchwood Grill

Boundless Adventures - Kenosha Zipline & Aerial Park

Bristol Oaks Country Club

Burlington and Kenosha Campus

Burlington Campus

Burlington Festival Park

Cliffside Park

Double Tree by Hilton Pleasant Prairie

Dyer Intermediate School

Guttormsen Recreation Center

Jack's Pizzeria & Burgers

Kemper Center

Kenosha & Beach Park

Kenosha & Burlington Campuses

Kenosha Campus

Kenosha Country Club

Lake Andrea

Lake Geneva Youth Camp

Lake Williamson Conference and Retreat Center

Mount Pleasant Campus

Prairie Springs Park & Lake Andrea

Promise Land

Promised Land

Racine Theater Guild

Simmons Field

Spencer Lake Christian Center

The Club at Strawberry Creek

The Loop Commons

Traxside Skaating

Wildberry Resturant

Wonderland Camp and Conference Center

SUNDAY Kenosha Campus 9:00 & 11:00 am 10700 75th St Kenosha, WI 53142

Burlington Campus 10:00 am 740 Center St Burlington, WI 53105

Beach Park Campus 9:00 & 11:00 am 12735 W Graves Ave Beach Park, IL 60087

Mount Pleasant Campus 10:00 am 9605 Spring St Mount Pleasant, WI 53406

Journey Kids: Wednesday 6:30 pm Journey Youth: Wednesday 6:30 pm Journey Young Adults: Thursday 7:00 pm Groups at various times

Watch Live Careers Contact Prayer SOAP Privacy Policy

Start typing and press Enter to search

Pastor Gary Hamrick will lead our next tour of Israel on September 17-26, 2024. The tour will bring the Word of God to life as you walk where Jesus walked and visit many Biblical sites!

A 12-Day Bible Tour of Israel

Sept. 29 - oct. 9, 2022, september 26 — october 7, 2024*, israel is no longer mandating the covid vaccine for tourists..

Join pastors from Grace Church on a 12-day Bible tour of Israel. We will visit many amazing locations where Jesus Himself walked with our beloved guide Aharon. This trip is open to anyone, but space is limited.

*You can fill out the interest form for Fall 2024.

Learn more at   the upcoming info meetings: April 7 | 12p | Room 154 May 19 | 12p | Room 154 June 9 | 12p | Room 154

Team meetings  for those going to Israel will be held on the following dates: July 21 | 12p | Room 154 Aug 18 | 12p | Room 154 Sep 15 | 12p | Room 154

FALL 2024 INTEREST Form  

Trip Highlights:

• Sea of Galilee Boat Ride
• Baptism in the Jordan River
• Caesarea Philippi
• Mt. of Beatitudes
• Nazareth Village
• Caesarea Maritima
• Garden of Gethsemane
• City of David
• Garden Tomb Communion
• And much more!

Tennessee church group considers alternative travel as war in Israel unfolds, pastor says

A group of 12 travelers from First Baptist Church in Knoxville went to Israel to follow the historical footsteps of Jesus , and now is exploring alternative ways to get out of a country that has become a war zone.

While the group might be able to depart on its scheduled flight Oct. 21, armed conflict with Hamas could render its travel plans impossible.

"We are exploring options for alternative travel in the event that we realize even where we are is unsafe," Senior Pastor Brent McDougal told Knox News Oct. 9 from Jerusalem, where he said the group was safe. "In the meantime, we plan to continue with as much of our itinerary until we believe that it's just untenable to stay ... we're seeking to be wise in our decisions and ask people to pray for us."

On Oct. 9, the First Baptist Church group was exploring other options to get home as major U.S. air carriers suspended flights to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv and Israel mobilized for a historic fight in its decades-long conflict with Palestinians living in occupied territories.

The group is scheduled to fly out of Tel Aviv but might seek options for a flight from another country or leave sooner if violence reaches Jerusalem. For now, they are enclosed in the Old City section of Jerusalem, where sacred sites like the Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock mosque rest within ancient walls.

Knoxville church group had just arrived when Hamas launched attack

McDougal and 11 other church members arrived in Tel Aviv on Oct. 6 and the next day found themselves only miles from missile strikes as the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas launched an all-out attack from the skies and on the ground. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared war in a forceful counterstrike.

"It's been eye-opening to be so close to the violence that has affected daily life for both Jewish people and Palestinians," McDougal said. "We feel great sadness for the violence that is happening and we know that there's incredible suffering on both sides."

At least 700 people have been killed in Israel and at least 400 have been killed in Gaza, the territory controlled by Hamas that borders Israel in the south, according to the Associated Press. Photos from Gaza City and bordering towns in Israel show mass destruction and loss of life, as Hamas fighters killed and kidnapped civilians, and Palestinians in Gaza were killed in a counterattack.

In Jerusalem, the First Baptist Church group has seen firsthand how Israel is mobilizing for war, with sirens and buses of Israeli reservists armed for battle, said Alan Williams, a retired WVLT anchor on the trip who spoke with CNN's Abby Phillips on Oct. 8.

"We're not alone here. I know there's a lot of groups that come from all over the world that do the same thing that we're doing here, from (America) or different countries," Williams told Phillips. "So, we're all stuck. We're all in the same boat here. So, we're all looking for ways to get out."

Why the Tennessee church group is in Israel

First Baptist Church is participating in the Footsteps of Jesus Experience , a spiritual pilgrimage led by pastor and author Bob Rognlien and his wife Pam. McDougal said it's the first time the church has joined the trip, though it has taken members to Israel before. The 14-day itinerary takes pilgrims through the life of Jesus, from his birth in Bethlehem to his baptism in the River Jordan and his crucifixion outside Jerusalem.

After seeing the breakout of war firsthand, the church will likely put a pause on any future trips to Israel.

"I do think that will be some time before we consider a return trip, because we value the safety of our members and friends who would be participants," McDougal said. "But we hope to be able to return at some point because the experience of being in the same place where Jesus walked is valuable as a pilgrimage experience."

The violent new war has led to an outpouring of support worldwide both for Israelis and Palestinians. Israel's defense minister said the country would lay a "complete siege" to Gaza, preventing water, food and electricity from entering the Hamas-controlled territory.

U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said the U.S. would provide Israel, a critical ally in the Middle East, with military aid. The State Department said Oct. 9 that at least nine Americans were among those killed in the weekend attacks.

For McDougal and the First Baptist group, the conflict is yet another way of traveling back in time.

"It's helped me to have a window into the current situation in Israel, but also given insight into the world that Jesus inhabited, with so much pain, conflict and disruption," McDougal said.

Daniel Dassow is a growth and development reporter focused on technology. Phone 423-637-0878. Email [email protected] .

Support strong local journalism by subscribing at knoxnews.com/subscribe .   

Michigan Jews travel to Israel amid crisis to comfort, show support

As the most senior religious leader at Michigan's largest Jewish congregation, Rabbi Harold Loss has visited Israel many times over the decades, feeling inspired by its vibrancy.

But when Loss, 79, of Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, visited the country earlier this year for the first time since Hamas' attack on Oct. 7, he and other Michigan rabbis who accompanied him felt a different atmosphere from their previous visits.

"Wherever you are in Israel today, there is this overwhelming sadness and angst mixed with determination," Loss said. "I was frequently in tears as I heard people's stories."

Loss' trip was one of a number of visits to Israel in recent months by Jews in metro Detroit who are traveling to show solidarity, comfort victims and distribute supplies to people in need. Some are traveling in groups with local and national Jewish or Israeli organizations while others are going on their own, illustrating the close ties that Michigan's Jewish communities have with the state of Israel.

The country experienced in October the deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust. Loss was one of four rabbis from metro Detroit who traveled to Israel in January, visiting a kibbutz and a music festival site attacked by Hamas and delivering clothing and toiletries their congregations helped collect. The Jewish Federation of Detroit has raised tens of millions dollars to help Israel.

"It was a trip to let them know that you have a great deal of support, to give them a hug," Loss said, recalling an emotional scene when they encountered a mom who lost her child fighting in the war. "We sat with a woman at the grave of her son who had just died as part of the IDF (Israel Defense Forces)."

As Passover starts Monday night, many in Jewish communities will recall the story of Jews fleeing oppression in ancient Egypt that the week-long holiday celebrates. It's a story that remains relevant today for Jews as they face new challenges. During the holiday, when religious dinners known as Passover Seder are held, the Jewish community will be thinking this year of the hostages still held captive by Hamas and of other victims of the war.

"Passover is the holiday of celebrating the freedom of the Jewish people from oppression from slavery," explained Rabbi Shalom Kantor of Congregation B'nai Moshe in West Bloomfield, one of the four Michigan rabbis who went to Israel on the January trip. "There are a lot of people ... writing liturgical pieces to be added into the holiday of Passover that reflect on .... working towards the liberation of the hostages. I know a lot of people ... they're taking a picture of a hostage and putting it at their Seder table ... as if to reserve a space for that for that person."

"Once again, our people have been taken hostage, have been taken into captivity," he said. "There's a clear connection that's being made between the need to free the hostages and the freedom that Passover celebrates."

Kantor has been to Israel many times and lived there for several years. His experience on the three-day January trip to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and the border area near Gaza was unlike any other visit.

"There was a subdued atmosphere or agitated atmosphere ... that indicated this was a different Israel," he said. "There was ... an introspection at what had happened."

The anxiety increased on April 13 when Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles against Israel in an unprecedented attack in response to the earlier bombing of the Iranian embassy compound in Syria that killed three senior Iranian military commanders . There were reports Friday that Israel launched an attack against Iran, but officials in both countries did not immediately confirm them. The fighting comes as more than 30,000 Palestinians have been killed and 70,000 wounded after the Hamas attack on Oct. 7 killed about 1,200.

"It's still Oct. 7 in Israel," said Rabbi Steven Rubenstein of Congregation Beth Ahm in West Bloomfield, another of the four rabbis on the January trip. "The country is still very much fixated on that date because even though many quarters of the world have sort of put the lives of the hostages on the back burner, in Israel, there's just no way to forget their absence. And that's what people are waiting for, for those hostages to come home"

Rubenstein traveled to Israel a second time this year with Ramah Israel, which organizes solidarity and service trips to Israel where people can participate in volunteer work. He worked on farms and also helped prepare sandwiches for Israeli soldiers.

"At our first stop, we sorted vegetables, which were being distributed to the poor and also to families of IDF soldiers, who were in a difficult place because one member of the family was away for a long time serving," Rubenstein said of his volunteer work. "We were working in a scallion field one day for a little bit, basically weeding."

After the Oct. 7 attack, Israel's agriculture sector was hit hard because many foreign migrant workers left. Some of the victims of Hamas attack were farm workers from countries such as Thailand. Several Thai hostages are still being held by Hamas.

During the January trip, Rabbi Daniel Schwartz of Temple Shir Shalom in West Bloomfield dropped off cases of socks at a hotel room that his congregation collected. Many Israelis are currently living in hotels because they can't safely return to their homes in border areas. The hotels have donation areas where people can drop off items like toys, clothing and toiletries that others can pick up as needed.

Schwartz said he also delivered to soldiers Gold Bond talcum powder they requested to keep their feet clean, hand warmers, and energy bars to help "sustain them and bring them a little bit of comfort."

Some of the more intense moments of the trip involved speaking to survivors of Hamas attacks at the Nova Music Festival and at Kibbutz Kfar Aza, two areas the rabbis visited.

"There wasn't a dry eye in the room," during one of their meetings with survivors, Schwartz said. "I was present in the places where these things were happening. And it's still hard to believe that human beings could do such things to other humans."

At the same time, Schwartz and others had their spirits lifted hearing stories of courage.

"As we heard the stories of destruction which brought tears to our eyes, there are also stories of hope within them as well, about how other human beings responded," Schwartz said. "You saw the humanity ... that people who could have run the other way turned towards those who needed help. They went into the fire."

He recalled meeting two bothers in a hospital who said they had been in an area north of Tel Aviv on Oct. 7 when they heard about the attack, started getting weapons and joined police officers on a mission to help free civilians until an army unit arrived. They also met with a group of Bedouins in the city of Rahat who reportedly helped in the fight against Hamas on Oct. 7.

"Rahat ... is a Bedouin community in Israel that's mostly Muslim" who did "heroic work ... on October 7, going in and rescuing other Israelis," Schwartz said.

The rabbis shared their experiences with their congregations in sermons and provided ways for them to deepen ties with Israel. Rubenstein purchased dog tag necklaces remembering the hostages for congregants to purchase, with proceeds going to the Hostage and Missing Families Forum. On Thursday, his synagogue and the Jewish Federation will host a presentation by Natan Neppe, a commander in the IDF Search and Rescue, about his experiences.

Some of the stories they heard during the trip to Israel were too explicit to be shared, Loss said.

"I took photographs that are on my phone that I haven't and will not share with anyone because they're too painful," Loss said.

Despite witnessing the pain, the rabbis said they saw a positive determination in Israelis. Israel has faced withering criticism in recent months for its attacks in Gaza, but the trip reinforced their view that Israel has a right to actively defend itself against threats.

"We met with so many people who determined that this was not going to be part of the existence of the state of Israel, Loss said. "Hamas was not going to be in a position to take lives in the way it had before. And therefore defenses needed to be reestablished and Hamas needed to no longer to be in a position of power."

"This was the largest number of people killed in an antisemitic act of hatred since (the Holocaust)," Loss added. "And Israel has a responsibility to its citizens to provide security ... people in every country in every land should be able to live in peace, shalom. ... I would love to live to see the time when the Middle East is in peace, but it's a very complicated issue."

Contact Niraj Warikoo: [email protected] or X @nwarikoo .

Politics latest: Keir Starmer accused of 'rank hypocrisy' by Rishi Sunak after setting out what he'll do to tackle small boat crossings

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer lays out his party's plans to try and tackle small boat crossings if it wins power. Listen to the latest episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast as you scroll.

Friday 10 May 2024 18:30, UK

• Starmer says small boat crossings 'one of the greatest challenges we face'
• Explained: What's in Labour's plan to try and tackle problem
• Darren McCaffrey: Will Labour's plan cut it with voters?
• Starmer says no flights to Rwanda will take off under Labour
• Sunak accuses Starmer of 'rank hypocrisy'
• Electoral Dysfunction:  Jess Phillips says Elphicke defection like 'being punched in gut'
• UK exits recession | Economy 'returning to full health'
• Faultlines:   Can British farming survive?
• Live reporting by Tim Baker

Across the UK, anger is brewing amongst some farmers.  

Protests have already been held in London, Dover and Cardiff, with more planned - mirroring similar tensions seen across Europe in the last six months.     

They say they’re annoyed about cheap foreign imports and changes to subsidies forcing them to give up land in favour of environmental schemes.    

But what does this mean for the food on our table - and does British produce risk becoming a luxury product for the wealthy only?    

On the Sky News Daily , Niall Paterson is joined by West of England and Wales correspondent Dan Whitehead to find out why farmers are so concerned, and speaks to Liz Webster, the founder of Save British Farming, about why she believes eating British isn't just good for our farmers - it's good for the nation's health, too.   

In response to our report, Farming Minister Mark Spencer, said: "We firmly back our farmers. British farming is at the heart of British trade, and we put agriculture at the forefront of any deals we negotiate, prioritising new export opportunities, protecting UK food standards and removing market access barriers. 

"We've maintained the £2.4bn annual farming budget and recently set out the biggest ever package of grants which supports farmers to produce food profitably and sustainably."

The Welsh government said: "A successful future for Welsh farming should combine the best of our traditional farming alongside cutting-edge innovation and diversification. 

"It will produce the very best of Welsh food to the highest standards, while safeguarding our precious environment and addressing the urgent call of the climate and nature emergencies."

👉  Listen above then tap here to follow the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts   👈

Following the defection of the Dover and Deal MP Natalie Elphicke to Labour, Beth, Ruth and Jess discuss the surprise move and whether it could have been handled differently by Sir Keir Starmer.

They also talk about Beth's interview with the former immigration minister Robert Jenrick and his warnings about Reform UK.

Plus, how significant was the defeat of former Conservative mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street? Beth and Jess were both there to tell the story.

And they answer a question on Labour and the Muslim vote, and what the party can do to restore confidence and trust.

Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected] , post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.     

👉 Listen above then tap here to follow Electoral Dysfunction wherever you get your podcasts 👈

In January 2023, Rishi Sunak made five promises.

Since then, he and his ministers have rarely missed an opportunity to list them. In case you haven't heard, he promised to:

• Halve inflation • Grow the economy • Reduce debt • Cut NHS waiting lists and times • Stop the boats

See below how he is doing on these goals:

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about the different political parties.

With the local elections complete, Labour is still sitting comfortably ahead, with the Tories trailing behind.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

Speaking to Sky political editor  Beth Rigby , Sir Keir Starmer has defended his decision to allow Tory MP Natalie Elphicke into Labour.

Ms Elphicke was on the right of the Conservative spectrum, and previously defended her sex-offender ex-husband, comments which she apologised for this week following her defection.

Addressing Tory voters, Sir Keir says he wants Labour to be a "place where they who have ambitions about their families, their communities, their country, can join and be part of what we are trying to build for their country".

Asked by Beth if he was ruthless, Sir Keir said: "Yes, I'm ruthless in trying to ensure we have a Labour government that can change this country for the better.

"Not ruthless for my own ambition, not ruthlessness particularly for the Labour Party - I'm ruthless for the country. 

"The only way we'll bring about a change in this country is if we're ruthless about winning that general election and putting in place a government of public service, that’ll be a major change.

"Politics, I believe, should be about public service, that's what I've been about all my life."

More now from political editor Beth Rigby's interview with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

She reminded him that he previously ruled out doing a deal with the SNP - but has not done so for the Liberal Democrats.

Sir Keir again ruled out a coalition with the SNP - adding that he is aiming for a "majority Labour government".

He says Labour needs "to keep working hard, keep disciplined and getting our message across, which is something fundamental to me".

Pushed on his lack of ruling out a possible agreement with the Lib Dems, Sir Keir says: "I'm going for a majority.

"That's the answer I gave you a year ago. It's the same answer I'm giving you now."

Sir Keir Starmer was earlier today pushed on whether Rwanda deportation flights will take off if he was prime minister - although it was not clear if he would cancel flights which had already been organised.

Sky News understood that previously booked deportation flights to Rwanda would still go ahead if Sir Keir entered Number 10. 

But the Labour leader has now gone further.

Speaking to political editor Beth Rigby , Sir Keir has ruled out any flights taking off.

"There will be no flights scheduled or taking off after general election if Labour wins that general election," he says.

He says: "Every flight that takes off carries with it a cheque to the Rwanda government. 

"So I want to scrap the scheme - so that means the flights won't be going."

Sir Keir says he would rather spend the money on his own measures to counter small boats.

"No flights, no Rwanda scheme. It's a gimmick," he says.

By Alix Culbertson , political reporter

Scotland's new first minister has told Sky News that the controversial gender recognition reforms "cannot be implemented."

John Swinney,  who became first minister this week , has faced questions over his stance on gender recognition after MSPs voted in 2022 to pass a bill to make it simpler for people to change their gender without having to obtain a medical diagnosis.

The UK government blocked the bill from being made into law and the Supreme Court rejected a request by the Scottish government for a judicial review.

Asked if he would be fighting to push the bill through, Mr Swinney told Sky News: "The reality of the situation we face is that the Supreme Court has said that we can't legislate in that area. We can't take forward that legislation."

The UK economy is no longer in recession, according to official figures.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew by a better-than-expected 0.6% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

Economists had predicted the figure would be 0.4%.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said it showed the economy had "turned a corner".

He told Sky News's Ed Conway: "I am pleased that while there's more work to do, today's figures show that the economy now has real momentum, and I'm confident that with time, people will start to feel the benefits of that.

"We've had multiple months now where wages are rising, energy bills have fallen, mortgage rates are down and taxes are being cut... I'm pleased with the progress that we're making."

Mr Sunak added: "I am confident the economy is getting healthier every week."

You can read more here:

Rishi Sunak has criticised Sir Keir Starmer's position on Rwanda as "rank hypocrisy".

Speaking to broadcasters, the prime minister says the Labour leader has announced things the government is "already doing".

He gives the example of "punching through the backlog, having more law enforcement officers do more, that's all happening already".

"We've announced all of that more than a year ago," the prime minister adds.

"The question for Keir Starmer if he cares so much about that, why did he vote against the new laws that we passed to give our law enforcement officers new powers? 

"They've now used those to arrest almost 8,000 people connected with illegal migration, sentenced them to hundreds of years in prison.

"And if it was up to him, all those people would be out on our streets, so I think it's rank hypocrisy property of his position."

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free