The Revelation Voyage: St. Paul’s Journey by Land & Sea

Christian Heritage of Istanbul: we begin at Hagia Sophia, once the heart of Christianity, where golden mosaics proclaim Christ’s reign. At the Hippodrome, we reflect on how the early church stood against worldly power. The Underground Cistern shows how believers endured in hidden ways. We also visit the Chora Church, with frescoes depicting the life of Christ. Revelation 2:10 echoes: “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” Tonight, we meditate on Smyrna’s endurance in Revelation, preparing our hearts for the path ahead. Overnight in Istanbul, a key site for Christian pilgrimage Turkey.

We fly to Cappadocia, a land that sheltered early Christians. The natural citadel of Uchisar overlooks valleys filled with rock-hewn dwellings. We walk among fairy chimneys that once echoed with hymns. In Avanos, local potters remind us of Jeremiah 18:6: “Like clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in My hand, Israel.” The evening is free for fellowship and reflection. As St. Paul often paused to strengthen the faithful (Acts 14:22), we pause to prepare spiritually for the days ahead. Overnight in Cappadocia.

Today we enter the Göreme Open-Air Museum, visiting chapels adorned with frescoes of Christ the Pantocrator and scenes from the Gospels. These sacred walls remind us of Hebrews 12:1–2: “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.” Descending into underground cities, where Christians once hid from Roman persecution, we recall Hebrews 11:38: “The world was not worthy of them.” Their endurance brings the Book of Acts to life. Overnight in Cappadocia.

Our road today follows Acts 13–14. In Lystra, St. Paul healed a lame man, yet the crowd mistook him for a god before stoning him (Acts 14:8–20). Here we reflect on 2 Timothy 3:12: “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” In Iconium (Konya), many believed through St. Paul and Barnabas’ bold preaching (Acts 14:1). At Pisidian Antioch, St. Paul’s sermon (Acts 13:16–41) declared forgiveness through Christ. Standing amid ruins, we remember Romans 1:16: “I am not ashamed of the gospel.” Overnight in Konya, a key stop for biblical tours in Turkey.

We arrive at Hierapolis, where Apostle Philip was martyred. Walking through its necropolis, we recall Revelation 2:10: “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” In Laodicea, John’s warning against lukewarm faith (Rev. 3:14–22) challenges us to live fully for Christ. Among theatres and aqueducts, we hear Christ’s call: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock” (Rev. 3:20). The ruins remind us of spiritual vigilance and wholehearted devotion. Overnight in Pamukkale.

At Philadelphia, we recall Revelation 3:8: “See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.” In Sardis, John rebuked the church for spiritual death despite outward reputation (Rev. 3:1). Here, we remember James 2:26: “Faith without deeds is dead.” In Thyatira, known for trade, we recall Lydia, the seller of purple (Acts 16:14), the first recorded convert in Europe. Evening arrival in Izmir (Smyrna), praised for faithfulness unto death (Rev. 2:8–11). Overnight in Izmir.

Today we travel north to Pergamum, described as the place “where Satan’s throne is” (Rev. 2:13). Among the Acropolis, Altar of Zeus, and the steep theatre, we recall the faithful witness of Antipas, martyred here (Rev. 2:13). We meditate on Christ’s promise: “To the one who is victorious, I will give a white stone with a new name written on it” (Rev. 2:17). Returning to Izmir, we rest where Smyrna’s faithful endured persecution with hope of eternal life. Overnight in Izmir.

We explore Smyrna, praised in Revelation 2:9–10: “I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich.” At St. Polycarp’s Church and the ancient agora, we recall the bishop’s martyrdom: “For eighty-six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong.” In the afternoon, we transfer to Kuşadası, gateway to Ephesus. Here, we prepare to walk the streets where St. Paul’s ministry flourished. Overnight in Kuşadası.

We spend the day in Ephesus, where St. Paul ministered for over two years (Acts 19). Walking its marble streets, we see the Great Theatre, Library of Celsus, Agora, and Basilica of St. John. At the site of the Temple of Artemis, Acts 19:28 comes alive: “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” Revelation 2:4 warns: “You have forsaken the love you had at first.” Ephesus challenges us to remain steadfast in love and truth. Overnight Kuşadası.

At Miletus, St. Paul gave his farewell to the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:17–38). His words still echo: “I consider my life worth nothing… my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me.” Here we pray as St. Paul did with the elders before parting. Later, we travel to Bodrum and board our gulet cruise along St. Paul’s route. As sails rise, we reflect on St. Paul’s sea voyages and God’s guiding hand through every storm. Overnight on board.

We sail to Cnidus, mentioned in Acts 27:7: “We sailed slowly for many days and had difficulty arriving off Cnidus.” St. Paul’s ship struggled against winds here on the way to Rome. Among ancient harbors, we recall his perseverance. Anchoring in Palamutbükü, we rest in turquoise waters. Psalm 107:29 reminds us: “He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.” Evening worship on deck draws us close to the God who calms the seas. Overnight on board.

We continue to Bozburun, a town of shipbuilders. Reflecting on St. Paul’s countless voyages, we remember Acts 27:23–24: “Last night an angel of the God to whom I belong stood beside me and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul.’” Anchoring in a secluded bay, we share prayer and fellowship. As the stars rise, we recall Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Overnight on board.

At Loryma, a fortress overlooks a sheltered bay. Here we reflect on 2 Corinthians 11:26: “I have been constantly on the move… in danger at sea.” As we sail into Marmaris, we conclude our sea journey. After a farewell breakfast and prayers of thanksgiving, we disembark. St. Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 4:7 close our pilgrimage: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Transfer to Dalaman Airport for flights home.