EMMAUS 2004: ISRAEL PROGRAM
“In the Footsteps of the Master ”
March 4 – March 14, 2004

NOTES

Greetings: Contained in this communication is information basic to your study program to Israel . Emmaus thanks you for your participation and we are pleased you have selected this study program to enhance your understanding of Jesus' ministry and his homeland.

Program Emphasis: The Emmaus program is designed as a study-program centered upon Jesus' ministry and the Gospel message within the landscape, culture and context of New Testament Judea and Galilee . In addition to formal lecture times, numerous discussions will take place during travel times while on the bus and at various sites. The focus and design of the Emmaus program is threefold. (1) To visit key sites associated with Jesus' ministry and the Apostles' ministry   within Israel   (2) To expose you to relevant geographical, historical, cultural, religious, literary, and rabbinic elements in an effort to synthesize first century AD thought and practice that will allow you to better understand and appreciate the context of biblical messages and discourses. (3) To build a bridge of understanding between Jesus' ministry and the Jewish, Rabbinic and Roman reactions of acceptance or rejection of his message. A notebook has been prepared for you as a study and learning aid. The notebook will be distributed to you once your registration in the program is complete .

Program Dynamics:  NOTE: This is not your typical “tourist” tour of Israel . The pace is demanding at times and daily activities often go for a full 8-10 hours. There is limited free time. We have done our very best to maximize this program into a most unique and rewarding trip. Its uniqueness requires both effort and patience on your part.

Group Standards: As a Christian adult educational program, Emmaus recognizes the diversity of the Christian community in terms of personal indulgences; therefore, except for the modest restrictions stated below, we only ask that you act as responsible adults while associated with the Emmaus program. Alcohol consumption and the use of tobacco products are not allowed during scheduled touring hours and the three daily group meals.

Insurances: You are required to have insurance that covers any medical need while on the program. Most likely, your own personal insurance coverage will cover any medical need while on this program. Check your policy for coverage related to overseas travel. Please photocopy the clause that indicates overseas coverage, sign the page and return it to Emmaus. If you do not have medical coverage, you must secure coverage. If you desire, you may purchase medical coverage through Travelex Insurance Services at 1-800-504-7883 or www.travelex-insurance.com . If you desire insurance to cover any financial loss as a result of program cancellation, lost baggage, theft, etc. [events outside of the control of Logos or its agents], you may do so via Travelex. You are not required to have this latter travel insurance, but it is recommended.  

Program Cost and Financial Responsibilities:  

  • Emmaus programs are designed to eliminate the numerous incidental financial responsibilities one often encounters on packaged tours. Tour agencies and their clients often publish a low base price giving the appearance that you have discovered a bargain. On such programs you are held financially responsible for any number of fees not accounted for in the published program cost. These “hidden” or “unannounced” fees can add up to as much as $150-$300 by the end of your trip. In an effort to minimize your individual responsibilities for undeclared fees, Emmaus has calculated such fees and included them into your overall program cost. Except for the daily lunch meal and items related to optional personal choices , your Emmaus program cost covers all such incidental fees. We do this in order for you to have a realistic cost of the Emmaus program and to eliminate the hassle so often associated with “hidden” fees. For clarification please review the Covered and Not Covered features listed below.   
  • Items Covered in Your Program Cost: (a) All scheduled program related activities and group transfers. (b) Accommodations. (c) Private touring bus. (d) Any local guide as needed. (e) Emmaus instructor. (f) All tips. (g) Two meals a day. (h) Admission to sights and museums. (i) Program “Notebook” containing diagrams, notes and articles.
  • Not Covered in Your Program Cost: (a) Roundtrip airfare from and return to your point of origin. (b) Daily lunch meals and specialty beverages or bottle water at meals.   (c) Personal health or accident insurance – Required . (d) Personal travel insurance – Recommended . (e) Any incidental personal expenses for snacks, shopping, etc. (f) Any overnight lodging, ground transportation, flights and meals not included in the program itinerary as outlined by Emmaus. (Should you need assistance with personal health, accident, or travel insurance please contact Bonnie Mogle at MTS Travel.)
  • Land Cost:   Because the program will have participants from various origins in the USA and Canada , Emmaus is offering the program at a land only packaged price (that is, only the Israel portion of the program). In other words, you will pay Emmaus for the land portion of the study program. See the Flier for the program costs.
  • Plus (+) Air:   You also will need to pay an air agency independently for any and all international air travel arrangements you will need for your international roundtrip flights to and from Tel Aviv. Your air travel needs are your personal responsibility; however, Emmaus has enlisted the international services of MTS Travel to assist with your flight arrangements. Emmaus has secured reserved seating on prearranged flights scheduled out of New York; Sacramento; and Chicago. You are welcome to contact MTS Travel and purchase one of these reserved seats, or you can make your own travel arrangements with your personal travel agency. Should you not take part in one of our prearranged group flights ( New York ; Chicago ; Sacramento ) you must make your own ground transportation arrangements from the Tel Aviv airport to the Sharon Hotel in Herzlia (15mi, 25km). Please arrive at the hotel prior to the evening meal. If you do utilize one of our prearranged group flights, a group bus transfer from the Tel Aviv airport to the hotel has already been prearranged. To utilize the prearranged flight services of MTS Travel, please contact Bonnie Mogle at:
                                                                bonniem@mtstravel.com
                                                                          MTS Travel
                                                             124 E. Main Street, 4th Floor
                                                                Ephrata, PA 17522  USA
                                                             Phone: (800) 418-2929 x 315
                                                                  Phone (717) 721-7315
                                                                   Fax: (717) 733-1909

Flight Schedules:   The current prearranged program flights originate from (and return to) New York City ( JFK Airport ), Sacramento , CA ( SMF Airport ) and Chicago , IL ( ORD Airport ). Additional group departure sites can be added upon request. Canadian participants are encouraged (not required) to join the USA group departure from one of these locales. UK and EU participants are encouraged (not required) to join the group departure from Frankfurt to Tel Aviv.

NEW YORK: All flights are with Lufthansa Airlines

DEPART
New York/JFK
04 March
LH401
5:05 PM
ARRIVE
Frankfurt
05 March
5:30 AM
DEPART
Frankfurt
05 March
LH686
10:05 AM
ARRIVE
Tel Aviv
05 March
2:55 PM
DEPART
Tel Aviv
14 March
LH691
5:30 AM
ARRIVE
Frankfurt
14 March
8:55 AM
DEPART
Frankfurt
14 March
LH400
10:00 AM
ARRIVE
New York/JFK
14 March
12:45 PM

CHICAGO: All flights are with and Lufthansa Airlines

DEPART
Chicago
04 March
LH431
4:05PM
ARRIVE
Frankfurt
05 March
7:05PM
DEPART
Frankfurt
05 March
LH686
10:05AM
ARRIVE
Tel Aviv
05 March
2:55PM
DEPART
Tel Aviv
14 March
LH691
5:30AM
ARRIVE
Frankfurt
14 March
8:55AM
DEPART
Frankfurt
14 March
LH430
10:05AM
ARRIVE
Chicago
14 March
12:15PM

SACRAMENTO: Flights are with United Airlines and Lufthansa Airlines

DEPART
Sacrament
04 March
UA1432
9:00AM
ARRIVE
Chicago
04 March
2:52PM
DEPART
Chicago
04 March
LH431
4:05PM
ARRIVE
Frankfurt
05 March
7:05PM
DEPART
Frankfurt
05 March
LH686
10:05AM
ARRIVE
Tel Aviv
05 March
2:55PM
DEPART
Tel Aviv
14 March
LH691
5:30AM
ARRIVE
Frankfurt
14 March
8:55AM
DEPART
Frankfurt
14 March
LH430
10:05AM
ARRIVE
Chicago
14 March
12:15PM
DEPART
Chicago
14 March
UA735
2:45PM
ARRIVE
Sacramento
14 March
5:05PM

Climate and Clothing: The weather in Israel during March is unpredictable and varied. It is the transition month from winter to spring. Thus, you can expect almost any type of weather from snow, to sandstorms, to warm or cold rains, to mild spring-like sunshine. Daytime temperatures usually range from a low of 44° F (8° C) to a high of 78° F (25° C) depending on our locale in the country. Rainfall during our period of travel is expected to be between 0-2 inches. It is best to “layer” your clothing rather than bring an excessive number of individual specialty items. No “dress-up” cloths are needed. Casual ware is customary and more practical. Shorts are OK; weather permitting. No short-shorts please. Because we will be visiting “holy sites” there will be times when you (men and women) must dress more modestly (shoulders and knees covered). “Slip-over” or “wrap-around” clothing is best for such occasions. We will notify you in advance when your “modesty kit” of clothing will be needed.

•  Bath towels and small bar soap are provided at all hotels. Shampoo and hair dryer at some.
•  Electrical supply is 220 volts. Bring a converter and European style plug adaptor.
•  Wear comfortable walking shoes with “treads” as your primary footwear. Tennis or light hiking
   shoes do well. Avoid heels, dress shoes, or street shoes . If there are no “treads” on your shoes,
   it is best to leave them at home.
•  Israel web weather at http://www.wunderground.com/global/stations/40184.html

Packing and Laundry:  Historically, most people over-pack for international travel. A good rule of thumb is to pack your bags and then eliminate at least 25% of your items – reducing the size of your luggage accordingly – or providing needed space for purchases made during your travel. There is limited space available on the bus for luggage. Please keep your luggage size and contents to a minimum. Luggage is limited to one primary travel bag and one small soft day-bag. At the Sea of Galilee and in Jerusalem our overnight locales have at least two-nights lodging. You can send out your laundry for cleaning and have it returned to you before our scheduled departure. Expect an average of $3-$4 per major item and $1-$2 for minor items. Please be aware that you are at times required to manage and transport your own luggage . It is recommended you pack for 5-6 days of travel and take advantage of laundry opportunities. Coin operated washers and dryers are available at our Galilee resort.

Passport:  

  • Your passport must not expire prior to September 5, 2004 . If your passport expires before this date you must apply for a new passport. No exception .
  • If you do not have a USA , CANADA , UK passport you must notify Dr. Wink Thompson since special circumstances may apply to your entry into Israel .
  • If you have any entry or exit stamps in your passport reflecting previous travels to an Arab or Muslim nation, you must notify Dr. Wink Thompson.

Money: In addition to your regular tourist-type purchases and your daily lunch expenses ($5-$8), it is recommended you bring a “slush fund” of about $15-$20 per day for incidental spending (snacks, water, soda, maps, taxis, tourist guide books, etc.). US Dollars, Credit Cards, and Travelers Check are fine. You may convert these funds into local currency at our hotels or nearby banks. ATM machines exist but are rare, at times are difficult to locate, or are not readily available during the program. Do not depend on ATM machines to meet your financial cash needs.

Academic Credit: If you are a registered student at an academic institution you may be eligible for academic credit. You must make your own arrangements for academic credit with the Academic Dean of your institution. For those of you desiring academic credit you must fulfill 4 academic requirements.

• You are required to read in advance of the program David Flusser's Jesus ( Jerusalem: Magnes
   Press, 2002; available at the Jerusalem Perspective website www.jerusalemperspective.com ). It is
   not necessary to bring this book on the program; however, you may find it useful as a resource
   while on the program. A three-page (single-spaced) “book report and critique” is required and is to
   be received by Dr. Wink Thompson no later than February 1, 2004 . Your book report is to be a
   critical assessment of the book and your personal response to the material presented. (For
   example): How did this reading offer new insight into your understanding of Jesus and the Jewish
   world of his time? Have you come to realize new elements that have benefited your understanding
   of the ministry and message of the historical Jesus? If so, what are they? Explain with examples    and comparisons.     
• An essay exam (“open field notes”) will be offered at the conclusion of the Galilee field study. This
  essay exam will ask you to interact with a biblical passage based on your reading and fieldtrip
  experience.        
• A second essay exam will be offered at the conclusion of the Jerusalem field study. This essay exam will ask you to interact with a biblical passage based on your reading and fieldtrip experience.

Your book report and essays will be graded and evaluated by Dr. Notley. Emmaus will inform your Academic Dean (or other) that you have completed the academic requirements for credit and a grade has been assigned. Dr. Notley assumes no academic responsibility other than the grading of the Emmaus material assigned and presented. Your home institution is responsible for assigning and grading any additional academic requirements.

Hotel List, Phone Numbers, Hotel Web Sites: A separate document lists all important phone numbers (see Hotels ). Mr. David Kratz of Sar-El Tours ( Jerusalem ) has offered his office phone number for emergency contact. He and his office can accept on your behalf Emergency Calls Only . Emergency calls are defined as real emergencies – death, injury, leave the program and return home, etc. Please do not abuse this courtesy. If you are traveling with a personal international cell phone, please limit your calls (both incoming and outgoing) to times when there are no scheduled group activities. Please set up a “time to call” schedule in advance with your family members or business associates, avoiding touring hours ( 8:00 AM-6:00 PM local Israel time).

 Application, Registration, Payments, Cancellation, Refunds:   Please contact Dr. Wink Thompson for all inquiries, application information, financial payments and any administrative or academic need.   

  • Application: You may request an Application Form by phone, fax, email, or print the Application Form from this web site.   A $200 deposit fee (per person) is required with the return of your application. This fee is applied to your overall program cost. Registration is on a first-come first-serve basis. Should you be placed on the “Waiting List” you will be informed if your status changes. You will receive information and updates by email, unless you request by mail or fax.
  • Registration: You are not officially registered as an active participant in the Emmaus program until your application is complete and 100% of all fees have been received. Provisional pre-registration is granted upon reception of your application and the $200 deposit fee.
  • Important Dates, Payments, Cancellations: 
         Until Jan 31, 2004       Pre-Registration:
    Application, $200 deposit and 50% of program cost due.
                                           Last day to cancel and receive a full refund. Subject to cancellation penalties
                                           after this date.
         February 1
                    100%
    of cost and all Application documentation due. If applying for academic
                                           credit, your book report is due.

        
    NOTE: Due to the late date of the development of this program, the deadlines in the Terms and
         Conditions
    are adjusted to the above dates when considering financial deadlines.

USEFUL BOOKS FOR ISRAEL:              
David Flusser
Jesus, 3rd Edition
Jerusalem: Magnes Press, 2002

Carl G. Rasmussen
NIV Atlas of the Bible
Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1989 or later

Jerome Murphy O'Connor
The Holy Land, 4th Edition
Oxford : Oxford University Press, 1998

USEFUL ISRAEL WEB SITES:
http://www.biblelandpictures.com/
http://www.bibleplaces.com/
http://unbound.biola.edu/index.cfm?lang=English
http://www.holylandphotos.org/index.asp
http://greatcommission.com/israel/Israel.html
http://faculty.smu.edu/dbinder/archaeol.html
http://www.otgateway.com/
http://www.ancientsandals.com/
http://www.thevirtualbible.com/
http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/jewish/jewishsbook.html
http://www.ntgateway.com/
http://www.en-gedi.org
http://www.iTanakh.org
http://www.israel-mfa.gov.il/mfa/go.asp?MFAH00wf0
http://www.jerusalemperspective.com/
http://www.bib-arch.org/
http://www.msn.fullfeed.com/~scribe/artifax.htm
http://www.js.org/
http://www.historian.net/newindex.html
http://www.info.gov.il/eng/mainpage.asp

Disclaimer: The program itinerary is subject to change. In the event of an unforeseen change in the schedule, we promise you every effort will be taken to provide you with the same goals and objectives as outline in the published itinerary. The published program price is subject to change should circumstances warrant. This would include (but not be limited to) changes in airfares, airport taxes, visa fees, rate changes by agents and their suppliers and changes in international exchange rates. For additional information, see Terms and Conditions.

Program Correspondence:   Please note that the primary correspondence between Emmaus and those interested in attending the 2004 program will be conducted by the use of email. If you do not have email, or experience email compatibility problems, alternative arrangements can be made via mail, phone, or fax. All correspondence is to be directed to the program administrator.

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