A 13-Day Pilgrimage to Istanbul, Turkey and Greece with Fr. Mario Valencia

Embark on an unforgettable 13-day pilgrimage to Istanbul, Turkey, and Greece, a remarkable spiritual journey through lands where the Apostles preached, the early Church flourished, and centuries of Christian history unfolded.

Begin in Istanbul, the historic city once known as Constantinople and one of the most influential centers of the Byzantine Christian world. Discover its extraordinary religious and cultural heritage while visiting magnificent landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, once one of Christianity’s greatest churches. Experience the city’s unique beauty, where Europe and Asia meet, and explore the traditions and history that shaped the development of the early Church.

Continue to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world and an important center of early Christianity. Walk along its ancient streets and visit the House of the Virgin Mary, where Christian tradition holds that the Blessed Mother spent the final years of her earthly life under the care of Saint John the Apostle. Celebrate this sacred connection to Mary and reflect on the ministry of Saint Paul, who lived and preached in Ephesus and addressed the Christian community in his Letter to the Ephesians.

The pilgrimage continues through Greece, following in the footsteps of Saint Paul and the first Christian missionaries. Visit places where Saint Paul courageously proclaimed the Gospel and established some of the earliest Christian communities. In Athens, stand near the Areopagus, also known as Mars Hill, where Saint Paul delivered his famous sermon about the “Unknown God.” Explore the ancient Acropolis and admire the Parthenon while discovering the powerful meeting between the Christian faith and the classical world.

Visit ancient Corinth, where Saint Paul lived, preached, and worked alongside Saints Aquila and Priscilla. Walk among the ruins of this important biblical city and reflect on his letters to the Corinthians, which continue to guide and inspire Christians throughout the world.

Enjoy a beautiful cruise through the Greek islands, surrounded by the sparkling blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Visit picturesque islands known for their whitewashed villages, historic churches, peaceful coastlines, and rich spiritual heritage. The cruise offers a wonderful combination of prayer, fellowship, relaxation, and breathtaking Mediterranean scenery.

A special spiritual highlight is the island of Patmos, where Saint John the Apostle was exiled and received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation. Visit the sacred Cave of the Apocalypse and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this holy island, often called the “Jerusalem of the Aegean.”

Throughout the journey, pilgrims will celebrate daily Mass, share moments of prayer and reflection, and visit churches and sacred sites connected to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saint Paul, Saint John, and the earliest followers of Jesus Christ.

This pilgrimage offers much more than sightseeing. It is an opportunity to walk through biblical history, strengthen your faith, experience the beauty of Turkey and Greece, and gain a deeper understanding of the courage and devotion of the Apostles.

Come as a pilgrim, follow in the footsteps of Saint Paul and Saint John, and return home spiritually renewed, carrying treasured memories and a deeper appreciation for the foundations of the Christian faith.