Religions, Rocks and Ages:
Turkey, Jordan and Israel/Palestine

Jan. 11–31, 2009


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Program leaders: Ed Langerak, professor of philosophy, and
Lois Langerak, dental hygienist

Join us for a thought-provoking journey through much of the birthplace of Western Civilization. It is hard to imagine three countries with a more interesting combination of rich history, vibrant culture, fascinating archeology and iconic monuments, all in a time and place of vigorous political debate and religious diversity. We will visit many sites and talk with local people about their views of politics and religion including issues of toleration, respect for differences and the reasons for fanaticism and intolerance. For decades, St. Olaf has maintained close contacts in these countries with people and organizations who know how to arrange tours that combine visits to the most interesting places with a primary concern for safety.

“Where in the world is Turkey?” a visitor asks of the country that negotiates a unique historical and geographical position that is part Europe and part Asia. We begin in Istanbul with visits to Hagia Sophia and its neighbor, the Blue Mosque, as well as palaces and museums that delight the eye and stretch the mind. Talks from two of Turkey’s foremost political scientists from Bogazici University will orient us to Turkey’s rich history and unique political situation. Visits to ancient Troy and Ephesus and other sites on the Dardanelles and the Aegean Sea will round out our visit. And we won’t neglect the exquisite cuisine!

In Israel and the Palestinian Territories we will explore Jerusalem — Temple Mount, Wailing Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Mount of Olives — as well as Bethehem. Encountering the Separation Wall will raise many questions that will be addressed by local scholars and religious authorities. The Sea of Gallilee, Mount of Beatitudes, Peter’s house at Capernaum and the Dead Sea are also on our itinerary.

The highlight in Jordan will be the red rock city of Petra, but we will see other fascinating sites such as the Citadel in Amman, the huge and well-preserved ruins of Jerash and the mosaic map of biblical sites at Madaba. St Olaf’s long-term connections with the American Center of Oriental Research in Amman give us friendly and knowledgeable guides to the treasures of Jordan.


Program Leaders
Ed and Lois Langerak are experienced travelers and group leaders, having led St. Olaf College’s 1989–90 Term in Asia (Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Hong Kong, Thailand and China), 1996–97 Term in the Middle East (Turkey, Morocco, Egypt, Jordan and Israel/Palestine), and 2003–04 Global Semester (Geneva, Turkey, Egypt, India, Thailand, Hong Kong, China and Korea). Ed received his Ph.D. from Princeton University and has taught philosophy and interdisciplinary courses at St. Olaf since 1972. His recent research and publications have focused on issues of toleration and pluralism. Lois is a dental hygienist in Northfield.


Program Fee
The program fee is $5,775 per person through Sept. 15, 2008. Based on double occupancy, it includes:

  • Seminars by Ed Langerak and guest speakers
  • Assistance by Lois Langerak and a national guide in each country
  • Roundtrip airfare from Minneapolis
  • Airfare between Istanbul and Tel Aviv
  • Accommodations
  • Breakfast daily and several other group meals
  • Group tours
  • Admissions for group activities
  • Ground transportation
  • Gratuities

For single occupancy, add $400. To travel Land Only (making your own flight arrangements to Istanbul and from Amman), subtract $1400.

After Sept. 15, 2008, the program fee is $5,925 and could be subject to additional airfare. Payment schedule

Continuing Education Units
Approximately 46 hours of continuing education are available.

Register
Register online, call toll-free 866-255-6523 or fax 507-786-8232. A deposit of $500 per person guarantees your space.