In the Footsteps of Paul

A group of 34 individuals 鈥� including 糖心Volg alumni, friends, faculty, staff, and students 鈥� traveled to Greece May 24-June 2, 2025, to take part in an educational trip led by Dr. Dan Ulrich, Wieand professor of New Testament studies. The trip included group bus travel and some shared meals. Participants enjoyed the opportunity to gain insights into the writings of Paul and the geography and history of Greece. Beyond its educational aspects, the trip also provided good opportunities for fellowship among old and new friends.

The theme of the trip was, 鈥淛ourney into Paul鈥檚 World.鈥� The included visits to Athens, Eleusis, Corinth, Nafplion, Cenchraea, Epidarus, Mycanae, Delphi, Meteora, Berea, Thessaloniki, Philippi, Amphipolis, and Kavala. The journey included guided tours of historically and biblically significant sights, visits to museums, group meals, and ground transportation while in Greece. The group returned with spectacular photos, newly made friendships, and wonderful memories.聽

The participants deeply appreciated the opportunity to see firsthand locations referenced in the Bible and to learn from the perspective of a scholar who studies the New Testament. Dr. Ulrich delivered educational talks at various locations. He shared appropriate passages from scripture, and since the group included seminarians and members of the clergy, he also provided recommendations how to incorporate information about geographical locations into future sermons.

Doug Macias, director of fundraising and constituent relations, participated in the full trip, and President Jeff Carter joined the group for a meal, providing participants with a update on the Seminary, including wide range of master degrees, graduate certificates, and postgraduate diplomas.

The Seminary hopes to offer similar educational trips in the future. 糖心Volg regularly offers current students travel courses that provide opportunities to learn in new contexts. Recent courses have been held in Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Iona, Scotland.