WALKING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF PAUL
A Two-Day Biblical Rome Experience Before Our Steps of Paul Cruise
Before we sail in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul across the Mediterranean, we are inviting you to join us for an unforgettable two-day pre-extension in one of the most important cities in the history of Christianity… Rome.
This is not just another sightseeing tour.
This is an opportunity to stand where the Apostle Paul stood. To walk the roads he walked. To see the places where the early church suffered, preached, endured persecution, and changed the world forever through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Rome is where Paul was imprisoned.
Rome is where Peter ministered and was martyred.
Rome is where Christianity collided head-on with the power of the Roman Empire.
And over these two incredible days, we will experience both the grandeur of ancient Rome and the powerful biblical story that unfolded here.
And adding to the experience, our group will stay 3 Nights at the beautiful 4 star hotel Rome Central, opening this summer in the heart of Rome. This stunning new 4 star hotel property places us close to the historic center while providing the comfort, quality, and modern elegance you would expect from a premier 4 star hotel experience.
DAY ONE
IMPERIAL ROME, PAUL’S IMPRISONMENT & THE RISE OF CHRISTIANITY
We will begin our day at the world-famous Colosseum, one of the most recognizable structures on earth. Standing inside this massive arena, we will discuss the rise of imperial Rome, the culture of persecution, and the tremendous courage of early Christians who lived under Roman rule.
From there, we will walk through the Roman Forum, the political and religious center of the empire during the days of the New Testament. As we move through these ancient ruins, Scripture will come alive as we discuss Roman citizenship, emperor worship, and why the gospel spread so rapidly throughout the Roman world.
One of the absolute highlights of the day will be standing before the Arch of Titus, one of the most important biblical artifacts in Rome. Built after the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, the arch still contains carvings of the golden menorah and treasures taken from the Jewish Temple exactly as Jesus prophesied.
You won’t just read about biblical history… you’ll see it carved in stone.
We will also visit the Mamertine Prison, traditionally recognized as the prison where both Paul and Peter were held. Imagine standing in the dark underground chamber where Paul may have written some of his final words before martyrdom:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
Throughout the afternoon we will stroll through some of Rome’s most iconic locations including:
- Trevi Fountain
- Pantheon
- Spanish Steps
- Piazza Venezia
- Ancient Roman streets and piazzas
Along the way, we will enjoy authentic Roman cuisine, incredible fellowship, unforgettable teaching moments, and the beauty of one of the greatest cities in the world.
DAY TWO
THE VATICAN, PETER, THE CATACOMBS & THE APPIAN WAY
Our second day focuses on the explosive growth of Christianity in Rome and the legacy of Peter and Paul.
We will begin at the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel before entering the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, built over the traditional burial site of the Apostle Peter.
Here we will discuss:
- Peter’s ministry in Rome
- The persecution under Nero
- The growth of the early church
- The incredible transformation of Christianity from persecuted movement to global faith
From there we travel to the Catacombs of Callixtus, where early Christians buried their dead and secretly worshiped during times of persecution. Walking through these underground passages is one of the most powerful experiences in Rome and gives incredible insight into the faith and hope of the early church.
We will then drive along the ancient Appian Way Regional Park, one of the oldest roads in the Roman Empire and likely the route Paul traveled as he entered Rome under guard in Acts 28.
Finally, we will conclude at the incredible Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, traditionally built over the burial site of the Apostle Paul himself.
For many believers, this becomes one of the most emotional moments of the entire trip.
THIS IS FAR MORE THAN A TOUR
This experience has been carefully designed to combine:
- biblical teaching
- church history
- archaeology
- spiritual encouragement
- fellowship
- world-class sightseeing
- incredible food
- unforgettable moments
You will not simply “see Rome.”
You will experience the story of the New Testament in one of the most important cities in Christian history.
THE VALUE OF THIS EXPERIENCE
A comparable private Rome experience with guided tours, skip-the-line entries, transportation, Vatican access, the Colosseum, Catacombs, and biblical teaching can easily cost hundreds of dollars per person when booked independently. This extension allows us to experience these world-class sites together with carefully planned logistics, rich biblical teaching, fellowship, and the convenience of traveling as a church family.
WHY THIS MATTERS
There is something deeply moving about opening your Bible in the very places where these events happened.
The New Testament becomes more real.
The courage of the early church becomes more tangible.
The cost of following Christ becomes more visible.
And the greatness of the gospel shines even brighter against the backdrop of the Roman Empire.
Come walk where Paul walked.
Stand where Peter stood.
See the world of the New Testament come alive before your eyes.
This will be an unforgettable beginning to our Steps of Paul journey.
