Imagine sailing across the Sea of Galilee, standing on the Mount of Olives, walking through the streets of Jerusalem, and sharing communion near the place where Christ’s resurrection is remembered. In February 2027, Faith Baptist Bible College invites you to experience the lands of the Bible—and see Scripture from an unforgettable new perspective—during its Israel* and London Tour.
Led by Dr. Marty Herron and operated by Pilgrim Tours, this 12-day journey will take place February 16–27, 2027. Participants will explore significant biblical, historical, and cultural sites throughout Israel before concluding the tour in London.
*We are mindful of the ongoing situation in Israel and the Middle East, and our hearts remain concerned for all those affected. Thank you for your patience as we navigate these events. While we know there will always be “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6–13), we trust that God is using this in the lives of His chosen people, as well as in our own.
More Than a Tour
For previous travelers, visiting Israel has been much more than an opportunity to see famous landmarks. It has deepened their understanding of Scripture and helped them picture the real places where biblical events unfolded.
Tim and Lori Yankee describe their 2019 trip as “life-changing.”
“Now, when we read Scripture passages, we can actually visualize them because we have been to so many of the places we read about,” they shared. “It really makes the Word of God come alive and gives such a better perspective.”
Pastor Nathan Gast had a similar experience. Sailing on the Sea of Galilee prompted him to reflect on the waters where Jesus calmed the storm. Walking near the Temple Mount helped him imagine Jesus traveling to Jerusalem for worship and the appointed feasts. Seeing the tomb associated with Christ’s resurrection brought the reality of His death, burial, and resurrection into sharper focus.
“These experiences did more than allow me to see the places I had read about in Scripture,” Gast explained. “They helped me better understand the historical and geographical context of God’s Word and brought the biblical accounts to life in a deeply personal way.”
Pastor Brad Fincham also found that visiting the places connected to Christ added a new dimension to his study of the Gospels. “Being at the Sea of Galilee, in Capernaum, in Nazareth, and on the Mount of Olives gave me a greater appreciation for the places where Jesus lived, taught, and ministered,” he said.
Don Johnston has traveled to Israel three times, including twice on tours sponsored by Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary. He describes each visit as “truly life-changing and ministry-enriching” and “I believe every pastor and serious Bible teacher should take a tour of Israel if at all possible.”
This tour will also visit the Valley of Elah, where David confronted Goliath. This location was especially meaningful to Pastor Matt Reno, who was preparing to preach through that passage in 1 Samuel.
“Being able to stand in that same area, to be in the creek where David would have gathered his stones, was a true joy,” Pastor Matt said. When he later preached the passage, he did so with renewed excitement and even allowed the children to touch a stone he had brought home from the creek.
Learning and Worshiping Together
Traveling with a Faith group offers more than shared transportation and an itinerary. It provides opportunities to learn from knowledgeable leaders, discuss what participants are seeing, worship together, and enjoy fellowship with others who love God and His Word.
Taking part in a guided tour helps travelers understand each location within its biblical, historical, and cultural context. Pastor Matt described traveling between the various sites as “the best education in understanding the geographical location and topography.”
“The Bible just comes alive when you are reading about Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane while standing in the garden, or on a boat on the Sea of Galilee, or walking through the Temple Mount,” he explained. “And now, when I read those passages, the visuals, the smells, and the memories all come flooding back.”
Pastor Gast summarized his own experience with one word: time. Visiting Israel helped him consider the past, present, and future of God’s plan.
“In a remarkable way, Israel allowed me to see how the past, present, and future intersect in God’s Word,” he said. “It was a powerful reminder that the Bible is not simply a record of things God has done, but also a testimony to His faithfulness today and the promises He has yet to fulfill.”
From Jerusalem to London
Following the tour of Israel, participants will fly to London for several additional days of sightseeing. Stops will include the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, and the Metropolitan Tabernacle, where Charles Spurgeon preached to thousands during his influential ministry.
This portion of the trip will give travelers an opportunity to explore important sites connected to British and Christian history—including the legacy of Spurgeon and the translation of the King James Bible—while also enjoying free time in London.
See It for Yourself
Pictures, maps, and classroom instruction can teach much about the geography and history of the Bible. Standing in those places, however, offers a perspective that is difficult to reproduce.
“Visiting Israel helped bring the Bible to life in a way that’s hard to explain until you’ve experienced it yourself,” Pastor Brad shared. Sharing the journey with his wife made the experience even more special. “If I had the opportunity to go back, I would do it again in a heartbeat!”
Pastor Gast agreed: “If someone really wants to grasp these understandings, they really need to see it for themselves.”
The Yankees wholeheartedly recommend the experience as well: “You will learn so much and never regret visiting the Holy Land!”
The cost of the 2027 Israel and London Tour is $5,259 per person based on double occupancy, including round-trip airfare from Chicago. Airfare from Des Moines is available for an estimated additional $170. The price also includes 10 nights in four-star hotels, daily breakfast and dinner, professional guides, transportation, entrance fees, and many other tour expenses.
The registration deadline is quickly approaching. A $300 nonrefundable deposit and completed reservation form are due by October 29, 2026. Because space is limited, early registration is strongly encouraged.
Join Faith Baptist Bible College for this extraordinary opportunity to walk through the lands of Scripture, deepen your understanding of God’s Word, enjoy fellowship with other believers, and create memories that will continue shaping your reading, teaching, and ministry for years to come: Register for Israel and London Tour
