A Statement of Purpose:

MennoJerusalem focuses largely on organizing tours in Israel/Palestine, in Jordan/Egypt, and in Italy/Greece (with Turkey/Syria to be added in the future). We assist with all tour organizing and managing for congregations, seminaries, college classes, or interested groups, adapting the itineraries and content to meet the special interests of those groups. Our first desire is to present the scriptural text in context, bringing the Bible to life through an awareness of its geographical setting, the effects of historical influences on interpretation, cultural and religious impact, and a better understanding of current political issues through direct contact with the people and places.

With these experiences we offer opportunities for a deeper knowledge of the Land and the People, and an examination of Judaism during the time of Jesus and the biblical writers; reading and ‘visualizing’ the biblical stories [usually on site around the country]; touching on the development of Christianity in the first centuries—including the tumultuous and painful ‘parting of the ways’ with Judaism; and exposure to today’s people and institutions involved in peace, justice, and reconciliation work.

We briefly touch on the march of history, including the rise of Islam, the Crusades, the inquisitions and pogroms, and other impactful events in the areas most relevant to our life and situation today. In a nutshell, our goals are to help people discover the world of the Bible understanding it in its cultural, linguistic, and historical setting, and relating that to present-day issues of life and politics. Behind it all is an encouragement to “Come and see!”

Glenn Edward Witmer is a teacher, writer, and tour leader who is passionate about the importance of the Holy Land in relation to one’s spiritual growth and understanding of the Scriptures and their relevance for our daily life and work. Of chief significance is the decision to visit the Bible Lands in person—especially critical for ministers and teachers, but important for everyone to know more about the area which is the cradle of our faith. Of further relevance is one’s effort to understand better the religious roots of our beliefs—within Judaism and in the Land.

MennoJerusalem’s involvement with other groups supports these efforts on a number of fronts—contact with international religious education teachers who come to study the Scriptures with Rabbis, using Jewish sources; with international groups of students, who are then exposed to a new culture and way of thinking; and with general tour groups who want to understand more about the setting of the Scriptures in their ancient and modern sites.

Write or call to ask how we can organize a tour program to meet your interests.