Lina AbuJamra founded Living with Power Ministries and is a popular Bible teacher, podcaster, and conference speaker. She's also the host of a radio show and the author of several books, including Fractured Faith and her new Bible Study Through the Desert: A Study on God’s Faithfulness. Lina is a pediatric ER doctor who practices telemedicine, and in her “spare” time, she provides medical care and humanitarian help to Syrian refugees and others in disaster areas. Learn more about her at LivingWithPower.org.

Jorge Acevedo loves Jesus Christ and his Church. Touched by the grace of God at seventeen and rescued from a life of addictions, his greatest delight is connecting people to Jesus and the Church. He is married to Cheryl Montgomery. His son, Daniel, is married to Courtney and they have 4 children. Jorge and Cheryl also have a younger son, Nathan. Jorge is the Lead Pastor at Grace Church, a multi-site United Methodist congregation in SW Florida. In August 2023, he will step away from the church to begin a coaching, consulting, writing, and speaking ministry. Jorge has authored or co-authored six books and has received numerous awards for ministry and evangelism.

Dr. Bill T. Arnold joined the faculty of the Old Testament Department at Asbury Theological Seminary in 1995, and became the Paul S. Amos Professor of Old Testament Interpretation in 2007. During his time at Asbury, he has taught scores of pastors, missionaries, and teachers, and has published seventeen books, most recently the edited volume The Cambridge Companion to Genesis (Cambridge University Press, 2021). His research and writing cover several aspects of biblical interpretation, including the history of ancient Israel and the Hebrew language. His publications include commentaries on Genesis, Deuteronomy, and 1 & 2 Samuel, as well as a grammar of Biblical Hebrew and introductory textbooks.

Arnold served as an editor for the Old Testament notes in The Wesley Study Bible (Abingdon, 2009), and contributed its study notes on Genesis. He also served as co-translator of Genesis for the Common English Bible (Abingdon, 2011). He is an Ordained Elder in The United Methodist Church (1984), and has been a delegate to four General Conferences.

Journey Through the Bible Speaker January 4 - 14, 2024

Rachel Billups is a visionary, leader, speaker and author. Currently she serves as Senior Pastor at Ginghamsburg Church multi-campus ministry in Tipp City/Dayton Ohio. Rachel draws on her love of people and passion to explore new venues for ministry and mission.

Rachel is an ordained Elder within the United Methodist Church and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Bible/Religion and History from Anderson University and a Master of Divinity Degree from Duke Divinity School.

Most days you can find Rachel reaching out – praying online, hosting Open Table gatherings in her home or enjoying moments with husband Jon and their four loves: Adeline, Christopher, David and Sarah. She also might be cheering for those Duke Blue Devils and The OSU Buckeyes.

Rachel is a popular speaker for national gatherings and has recently authored BE BOLD: finding your fierce as well as co-authoring Down to Earth: Hopes and Fears of all the Year Are Met in Thee Tonight and Sent: Delivering the Gift of Hope at Christmas – all by Abingdon Press. You can find her on social media at: @rlbillups.

After 35 years teaching in liberal arts colleges (most recently Wheaton College in Chicago), Gary Burge joined Calvin Seminary in 2017 as a Professor of the New Testament. He specializes in the gospels and the ancient cultural context that shaped them. He is a frequent visitor to the Middle East, having served in eight of its countries, and has led students through the Holy Land over 25 times. He studied at The Univ. of California (BA), The American University of Beirut, Fuller Seminary (MDiv), and Aberdeen Univ., Scotland (PhD). He has authored many books and articles on the New Testament and the conflicts in Israel/Palestine. His textbook, The New Testament in Antiquity, is used widely in American colleges, and his commentaries are regularly utilized by pastors today.

Join Rev. Joel Hess of St. James Lutheran Church Chicago, Rev. Paul Koch of Grace Lutheran Church Ventura, and the whole Ringside Community for an experience you will never forget! Together we will explore the Lands of the Bible considering the topic “IS THE BIBLE TRUE? Evidential Apologetics in the Holy Lands.” Get ready for interactive podcast discussions, devotions, and a great time with friends 

Rev. Dr. Kelly Jackson Brooks, LPCC holds a Doctorate of Ministry from Claremont School of Theology, a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of New Mexico, and a Master’s degree in Divinity from United Theological Seminary. She is the Executive Director of Chrysalis Consulting Center for Clergy (https://chrysalisconsultingcenter. org),  which focuses on clergy mental health and currently serves as the Executive Pastor with Central United Methodist Church in Albuquerque, NM. Kelly is a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) and has served as the Chair of the New Mexico Counseling Association and the Chair of the New Mexico Association for the Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling, along with other community and United Methodist Church faith-based boards. Involvement in the spiritual, religious, and mental health fields as they relate to community and connection are the foundations and passions of Kelly’s work.

Host and Guest Speaker on Civil Rights Tour & 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington

Dr. Michael Brown is an author, motivational speaker, and adjunct professor. He is currently teaching at Duke Divinity School and High Point University. He is an ordained United Methodist clergy who retired after serving Marble Collegiate Church in New York City and churches in NC. He is the author of numerous books. He has contributed to The Huffington Post and Thrive Global. Michael has been featured on TV specials for ABC, PBS, and NBC and has also been a guest on other TV and radio shows. He is known as a gifted speaker who uses humor and anecdotes to bring meaning, joy, and hope his listeners.

Bill has led a 3200+ member church for over a decade. He holds degrees from Jacksonville State University, Emory University, and Wesley Theological Seminary. He has also been a Lewis Fellow through the Lewis Center for Church Leadership. Bill has served at churches of various sizes throughout his ministry and has served as a District Superintendent in The United Methodist Church. Bill is one of the co-creators and content providers for www.thelifeofpurpose.org – a resource for small group and preaching materials. Bill is married to Michelle. They have 3 children, 1 in-law, and 3 granddaughters.

Dr. David Buegler has extensive ministry experience serving parishes in Ohio and Michigan, as Superintendent of the Lutheran High Schools in Cleveland. He was Ohio District President for several years and served also as a Vice-President for the Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod. He is known for his leadership skills and motivational speaking. He will go back 500 years to the Protestant and Lutheran Reformation and relate the church from that time to the challenges of being the church today.  These are glorious days of modern reformation. “God used both cultures to accomplish His mission.”

Jaime Clark-Soles is Professor of New Testament and Altshuler Distinguished Teaching Professor at Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. She earned her Ph.D. in New Testament from Yale University. Among her areas of expertise are Women in the Bible and Immersion trips to Israel and Palestine. She speaks and writes widely for academic and popular audiences including contributions to Feasting on the Word, Disciple Bible Study, and Covenant Bible Study. She is the author of numerous books including Women in the Bible (WJK, 2020). Jaime served as the New Testament editor of the CEB Women's Bible. 

Dr. Stan Copeland is Senior Pastor for Lover’s Lane United Methodist Church, Dallas, TX, where he has served since 1998. Stan has also served churches in Houston and East Texas and has become well known as a storytelling preacher, a visionary leader, and a multiple-award-winning cook and canner. He is an author of five books, including two pickling and canning cookbooks. His upcoming book, “Feeling the Heat in an Alaskan Kitchen, Recipes, and Stories About Caring for the Beautiful Earth,” is set in Alaska. It will feature the art of pressure canning meats and vegetables, but as with all of his cookbooks, it’s the stories that inspire. Stan will be joined on the cruise by his wife of more than four decades, Tammy. Tammy is a retired educator and school administrator who is quick to say, “It’s my second job to keep Stan well-grounded and about the work of the Lord on this planet.  My first job is being “Sugar” to two wonderful granddaughters.”

Glenn J. Corbett is Editor of Biblical Archaeology Review magazine and a specialist in the archaeology of the lands of the Bible, with more than two decades of excavation and field experience working on projects in Jordan, Turkey, and Israel. Prior to joining BAR, Glenn was Associate Director of the American Center of Research in Amman, Jordan, where he directed the award-winning Temple of the Winged Lions project in Petra.  In addition, while working as Program Director for the Council of American Overseas Research Centers, he spearheaded efforts to help preserve threatened archaeological sites and museums in Yemen and other countries ravaged by conflict. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago in 2010, specializing in the archaeology and epigraphy of pre-Islamic Arabia.

In 30+ years of ministry, Al has found numerous ways to reach people for Christ at their level, regardless of age or background. As a Dove Award-winning Christian recording artist, Al has been extremely successful, having 19 top ten songs (eleven of which hit #1) and inducted into the Christian music Hall-of-Fame in 2009. Al’s compassion and encouragement for others are evident in all he does and he is nowhere near done using his creative talents.

A popular speaker on several of our cruises, David serves as Trustees' Distinguished Professor of New Testament Studies at Ashland Theological Seminary.  He has authored thirty-five books, including Honor, Patronage, Kinship, and Purity: Unlocking New Testament Culture (2nd ed., 2022), Discovering Revelation (2021), A Week in the Life of Ephesus (2020), Introducing the Apocrypha (2nd ed., 2018), a widely-used Introduction to the New Testament (2nd ed., 2018), and commentaries on Galatians, Ephesians, and Hebrews.  He is also a frequent contributor to adult curriculum and study Bibles.

Rev. Brian Erickson is Senior Pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church in Birmingham, AL. Previously he served First UMC in Alabaster, AL, during a period of significant growth in membership and missions outreach. He was also chaplain at two United Methodist universities, where he taught classes in Wesleyan theology, Christian liturgy, and led service-learning classes to Harlem and Chile. Brian has degrees from Birmingham-Southern College and Candler School of Theology at Emory University. 

Rev. Dr. E. LeBron Fairbanks is president emeritus of Mount Vernon (OH) Nazarene University and Asia Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary, Manila, Philippines. Following retirement as Education Commissioner and administrator, International Board of Education, Church of the Education, he founded and directs BoardServe LLC, a consulting and teaching resource for non-profit boards and their leaders. His web address is: www.BoardServe.org.

Dr. Fairbanks is the author of numerous books and articles, including “Mentoring and Modeling Leadership Character,” “Leading Decisively! Leading Faithfully! Reflections and Markers,” and “Learning to be Last.” He is a graduate of Trevecca Nazarene University, Scarritt College, Nazarene Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary.

Bishop Leonard Fairley is the Resident Bishop of the Louisville Area, which includes the Kentucky Conference in the Southeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church. He also serves as the Interim Bishop for the Raleigh Episcopal Area.

Dr. William and Marilyn Francis are retired commissioners of the Salvation Army. Marilyn is an accomplished vocalist and pianist and has produced an audio recording of vocal and keyboard improvisations. Bill is the author of three books. His most recent publication is Building Blocks of Spiritual Leadership (2015). Together, they have led 20 tours to Israel, as well as multiple journeys to Jordan, Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Malta, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, England, and Ireland. 

Michelle Funk serves as the Women’s Ministry Program Director at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas. She provides direction and support for all discipleship opportunities specific to women, including a ministry for moms, bible study offerings, denominational ministry, women’s small groups and special events.

Ginger E. Gaines-Cirelli is Senior Pastor of historic Foundry UMC in Washington, DC, the first woman to hold this leadership position. A graduate of Yale Divinity School, she contributed to and served as a general editor for The CEB Women’s Bible and authored Sacred Resistance: A Practical Guide to Christian Witness and Dissent. Ginger is a sought-after preacher, teacher, and facilitator at local, regional, and international events.

Drexel Gilbert has more than 40 years of experience as a television journalist and public speaker. A life-long Christian who says she’s an unabashed “Jesus Freak”, Drexel is a sought-after speaker in both the faith-based and corporate worlds. Her high-energy presentations often have the audience out of their seats and moving their feet! Her messages, books and bible studies tackle tough subjects with a light touch and with practical advice for living a better life and doing so with enthusiasm! In her journalism work, Drexel focuses on stories of overcomers and encouragers and the lessons they can teach us all. Drexel is married to the Rev. Dr. Wesley Wachob and is mother to two grown daughters.

The Rev. Dawn Hand, an ordained elder of The United Methodist Church, currently serves as Central Maryland District Superintendent. She held other roles at the Western North Carolina Conference and served in local parishes in NC and Washington, DC. She is a prominent advocate for social justice and has a special passion for young people. Dawn enjoys travel, music, sports, hiking, and cycling and has an adventurous appetite for food. She loves to laugh and suggests that God has a wonderful sense of humor for calling her to ordained ministry.

Jim Harnish retired in 2014 after 43 years of pastoral ministry in the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church including 22 years at Hyde Park United Methodist Church in Tampa.  Known across the church as a leader and preacher, he is a facilitator for the Institute of Preaching at Duke Divinity School.  He is the author of more than 15 books and bible studies for Abingdon Press including A Disciple’s Path and Strength for the Broken Places. He was a Consulting Editor for “The New Interpreter’s Dictionary of the Bible” and a contributor to The Wesley Study Bible. He shares his “FaithMatters: Reflection on Life and Faith” at www.jimharnish.org.

The Rev. Cynthia Fierro Harvey is presiding Bishop of the Louisiana Annual United Methodist Conference. She also heads the United Methodist Committee on Relief, the denomination’s relief agency. Bishop Harvey previously was the director of missional excellence for the Texas Annual (regional) Conference.

In that role, she initiated a partnership with the Côte d’Ivoire Annual Conference. She also has previously served as executive associate pastor of Memorial Drive United Methodist Church in Houston and associate pastor of Foundry United Methodist Church in Houston. She is a graduate of Southern Methodist University’s Perkins School of Theology. 

Dr. Craig C. Hill is Dean and Professor of New Testament at Perkins School of Theology. Previously he was on the faculty at Duke Divinity School and Wesley Theological Seminary. Dean Hill served as Chaplain at Christ Church College, University of Oxford and has been on staff at three United Methodist Churches. Dean Hill is also the author of numerous scholarly articles and books.

Dr. Ed Hindson is the Bible Teacher on The King Is Coming telecast and the Dean Emeritus of the School of Divinity at Liberty University, in Virginia. Besides teaching thousands of students each week, he is an active conference speaker and a prolific writer who has written over 40 books, including Final Signs, Approaching Armageddon and The Illustrated Bible Survey (B&H).

Dr. Hindson is one of the most well-educated Bible teachers on the air today with earned doctorates from Trinity Graduate School, Westminster Theological Seminary, and the University of South Africa. Dr. Hindson has a gift for making complicated Biblical passages easy to understand for the average Bible student. He has traveled and taught in the Bible lands dozens of times.

Ed and his wife Donna are natives of Detroit, Michigan. They have three children and seven grandchildren. Ed says, “My greatest desire is to lift up Jesus Christ and proclaim His Gospel to the entire world.”

Bishop Hopkins is the interim bishop of the Northern Illinois Conference of The United Methodist Church. He served the East Ohio and Minnesota Conferences from 1996-2016. He graduated from Indiana University, Yale University and completed a residency in hospital, campus, and parish ministry at The Church of Christ at Dartmouth College. He has a passion for mission and was instrumental in the launch of Operation Classroom in Liberia and Sierra Leone. He was the first Chair of The Connectional Table which coordinates the worldwide mission and ministry of The United Methodist Church. Bishop Hopkins has traveled extensively and been a speaker on numerous EO tours.

Dr. Neal Jackson can be seen across the country through the telecast of Truth for Today which is currently broadcast in over thirty million homes each week by way of television, radio and streaming platforms. Dr. Jackson’s published works include The Coming Destruction of America, The Upside Down Way to Success and the best-selling devotional, My Favorite Bible Verses. He has earned doctorates from Luther Rice Seminary in Georgia and The Masters Seminary in California.

Dr. Jackson has led numerous Bible land tours and loves helping travelers discover how God has worked in the past and how that same all-powerful God desires to show himself strong on their behalf. Neal Jackson has pastored the Beulah Baptist Church, in Bennett, North Carolina for eleven years and is the founder of the Your Truth Radio Network.

Neal and his wife Tracy have five children: David, Victoria, Reagan, Aiden, and Hayden.

Dr. Ronnie Kent, M.D.- Founder and Medical Director of Connections in Hattiesburg, MS. Dr. Kent is an expert in the treatment of adolescent behavioral and learning issues and a frequent lecturer on family dynamics and health.

Michelle Kirby has been on staff at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas since 2002.  In her tenure her position has included managing the discipleship staff and volunteers, teaching, curriculum writing and development, and leadership development. Michelle is a published co-author of the Journey 101 Course curriculum. She has been involved in the Alpha ministry since 2000 and has been a guest speaker at multiple regional and international Alpha conferences.  She currently serves as the Lead Director of Creative Content Development where she provides leadership and oversight to ensure projects move successfully from concept to execution.  Michelle has helped to lead multiple educational trips to the Holy Land. 

Jeff Kloha is the Chief Curatorial Officer at the Museum of the Bible. 

The Rev. Dr. Brian Kneser has been an ordained pastor for over 40 years. He resides in Lakeland, FL with his wife Debbie. He received his MDiv from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN, and DMin from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO. Dr. Kneser served as a Circuit Visitor and Vice President of the FL-GA District and on its Board of Directors. While pastor of a unique congregation near Orlando, FL, he served on the faculty of Concordia House of Studies as an Adjunct Professor of Old Testament. During this cruise, he will reflect upon concepts of the Reformation and apply them to the life of a Christian today. His guiding motto: “It’s Still All About Jesus!” 

Rev. Paul Knight has served Hope Church - Grand Forks, ND for 32 years. In that time, the church has grown from 50 people per week to over 1,000. He has also served in denominational leadership for the Evangelical Covenant Church. Paul is part of a weekly radio show and “loves being able to answer real questions and to consistently bring up the reality of Jesus’ love.” Pastor Paul is a pastor/evangelist at heart with a love for Jesus Christ, his people, and the Church. He and his wife Bonnie have three adult children and three grandchildren. 

Kory is Sr. Minister at Custer Road UMC, Plano TX. He received degrees from Evangel Univ, Perkins School of Theology, and Portland Seminary, Kory has specialized in revitalizing local churches. He has been recognized for outstanding effectiveness in evangelism and church growth. He is also an author. Kory and his wife Jennifer have 3 children.

John F. Kutsko is the executive director of the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL). He holds a PhD in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations from Harvard University and an MA from the Department of Near Eastern Studies at the University of Michigan. He is also an affiliate professor of biblical studies at the Candler School of Theology, Emory University. He has taught writing and publishing workshops for the Forum for Theological Exploration, is a consultant for the International Qur’anic Studies Association (IQSA), and is on the editorial advisory boards of the Journal of General Education and Biblical Archaeology Review.

The Reverend Dr. Russell Levenson and his wife, Laura, live in Houston, Texas where he has served our nation’s largest Episcopal Church, St. Martin’s, for over a decade.  He received his Master of Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary and his Doctor of Ministry from Beeson Divinity School.  Prior to coming to St. Martin’s, Levenson served in Sewanee, Tennessee; Birmingham, Alabama; Lafayette, Louisiana; and Pensacola, Florida.  In addition to being a frequent guest speaker and retreat leader, he has written over 50 articles for various magazines and theological journals, preached a number of times for Day One and authored four devotional books – Autumn Leaves, Preparing Room, Provoking Thoughts and Summer Times about which political historian and former editor of Newsweek magazine, Jon Meacham, wrote, “The traditional Anglican term for the days and weeks of summer is ‘Ordinary Time,’ but this small but potent book is anything but.  It is a an extraordinary gift to all of us from Russ Levenson, priest and pastor.”

Jack is W. J. A. Power Chair of Old Testament Interpretation and Biblical Hebrew at Perkins, SMU. A graduate of Wheaton College, Cambridge University, and Duke University, Jack has been a research fellow at St. Andrews University in Scotland, Eberhard-Karls Universität in Tübingen, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität in Munich, and Oxford Brookes University. His essays have appeared in huffpost.com, parade.com, relevant.com, and beliefnet.com, and his recent book, A Bountiful God: The Spirit According to the Old Testament, was a 2021 Award of Merit winner in Christianity Today.

Priscilla and Jack have lived in St. Andrews, Scotland, where Jack was a Rotary Scholar, and Priscilla earned her doctorate in practical theology. They love the landscape, people, and mystery of Scotland. Priscilla and Jack recently became Faculty-in-Residence at Southern Methodist University, so they live on campus with nearly 200 undergraduates.

Priscilla Pope-Levison [DePauw University (B.Mus.), Duke Divinity School (M.Div.), and the University of St. Andrews, Scotland (Ph.D.)] is Research Professor of Practical Theology at Perkins School of Theology/SMU. Her published areas of research (seven books and more than 30 articles, dictionary entries, and chapters) include women’s religious history, contextual theology, missiology, evangelism, and ecumenism. She has recently received two-million-dollar grants from the Lilly Endowment for her work to revitalize congregations. Priscilla, a United Methodist minister, has served in the local church, as a college chaplain, as a college and seminary professor, and as a seminary administrator. She is also a current participant in the World Methodist Council’s international dialogue with the Roman Catholic Church.

Priscilla and Jack have lived in St. Andrews, Scotland, where Jack was a Rotary Scholar, and Priscilla earned her doctorate in practical theology. They love the landscape, people, and mystery of Scotland. Priscilla and Jack recently became Faculty-in-Residence at Southern Methodist University, so they live on campus with nearly 200 undergraduates.

Bishop Sharma D. Lewis, resident bishop of the Richmond episcopal area, became the first African-American woman to be elected bishop in the Southeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church in 2016. Prior to her episcopal assignment, she held a distinguished record of service in the North Georgia Conference. In 2007, Bishop Lewis’ remarkable pastoral leadership at Wesley Chapel, a three-year tenure, led to over 600 new and restored members and worship attendance doubled. While there, her visibility as a strong spiritual and pastoral leader propelled her into numerous leadership roles in the local community, including Hands on Henry County and Many Hearts, Many Hands McDonough. Bishop Lewis worked as a research biologist and chemist prior to surrendering to God’s call upon her life. She has led mission experiences to Jamaica, Kenya and the Philippines.

CH (COL) David Lile is currently Chaplain at the Inter-American Defense College at Fort McNair, NCR. David served in the Peace Corps before being ordained an Elder in The United Methodist Church. He served churches in Kentucky and then became a military chaplain. He holds advanced degrees from Duke Divinity School and numerous military institutions. He has served in a variety of roles and settings around the world as a chaplain. He has received many awards and decorations including the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal. He and his wife Gladys, from Moquegua, Peru, have 3 children and 3 grandchildren.

The Reverend Justin Alan Lindstrom is the Associate Rector for Community Formation at Christ Episcopal Church in San Antonio, TX. Justin has served as Dean of St. Paul’s Cathedral in Oklahoma City and was the Founding Vicar of Saint Aidan’s Episcopal Church in Cypress, Texas. Justin has a heart for people and a strong desire to share the love of God with all is a community organizer and sees his role as a Priest of the Church to be involved with the community. Justin has served on numerous boards and community organizations wherever he has served. Justin is the author of Faith, Family, Focus, Finances, a framework to help individuals and families discover their core values, live out their values, become debt free and live with intention. Justin is also a dynamic communicator, effective teacher, and caring leader. His wife Susan has been supporting his ministry throughout their marriage and currently leads the College Ministry at Christ Episcopal Church in San Antonio.

Dr. Bryan Loritts is the Executive Pastor of Teaching and Development at The Summit Church in North Carolina.

He is an award-winning author of seven books including Saving the Saved (Winner of the Christianity Today Award of Merit), Insider Outsider, and his newest release The Dad Difference. Dr. Loritts co-founded Fellowship Memphis in 2003, was Senior Pastor of Abundant Life Christian Fellowship in Silicon Valley, California for 16 years and founded The Kainos Movement--an organization committed to seeing the multiethnic church become the new normal in our world. In addition to his responsibilities as a pastor, Bryan travels extensively throughout the world preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ at conferences and events.

Dr. Loritts is the privileged husband of Korie and the graced father of three sons--Quentin, Myles and Jaden.

General Lynch graduated from West Point Academy. After commanding engineer and tank units, he was promoted to Brigadier General in 2001 and served forces around the world including 2 infantry divisions, Kosovo Forces, and Joint Force Command Naples. After 15 months of service in Iraq, he commanded III Corps and Ft Hood, TX before finishing his distinguished military career as Commanding General, Installation Management Command and Assistant Chief of Staff, Installation Management. He transitioned to become Executive Director of the University of Texas at Arlington Research Institute. General Lynch is now CEO of R Lynch Enterprises, LLC and consults, coaches, and makes presentations on adaptive leadership. He has written 2 books with the latest titled Work Hard Pray Hard: The Power of Faith in Action.

The Rev. Dr. David P. E. Maier and his wife Pat live in Michigan where he has served the majority of his 40 years in ministry. Currently, David serves as the President of the Michigan District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, as well as in leadership for other local and synodical groups. His great joy is engaging people in discussions about life, the Word of God, intersections with its truth, and pointing to the hope we have in Jesus Christ. An artist, former educator, and homemaker, Pat is Co-Founder of Visual Faith Ministry, creating resources and sharing the practices with others. Dave and Pat both enjoy the outdoors – especially northern Michigan and Montana – and spending time with their 4 children and 5 grandchildren.

Babbie Mason is an award-winning singer, songwriter, author and speaker. The recipient of 2 Dove Awards and numerous nominations for the Dove, The Grammy, The Stellar and The Emmy Award, Babbie’s melodious voice is a mainstay on Christian radio, television, internet and the silver screen. She has recorded 26 solo projects, authored 9 books, and written countless chart-topping Gospel and Christian songs. Babbie pours into the lives of the next generation of songwriters, music artists and entrepreneurs as an instructor at several Christian colleges and universities. She hosts Babbie’s House on TV and an internet radio station – www.babbiemasonradio.com. 

Dr. Eric Mason is the founder and lead pastor of Epiphany Fellowship in Philadelphia, PA. He is the founder and president of  Thriving, an urban resource organization committed to developing leaders for ministry in the urban context, and is the author of four books: Manhood Restored, Beat God to the Punch, Unleashed, and Woke Church. Dr. Mason has been graced by God to preach and teach at churches and conferences in the United States and overseas. Dr. Mason serves through Epiphany Fellowship in helping coach and train families to plant churches in cities locally, nationally, and internationally.

Rev. Dr. Gary Mason is a Methodist minister and directs a conflict organisation based in Belfast called "Rethinking Conflict." Prior to this, he spent 27 years as a Methodist clergy person in parish ministry in Belfast and has played an integral role in the Northern Irish peace process. He had a key role in establishing the Skainos project which is a world class urban centre developed in a post conflict society as a model of co-existence and shared space. It is acknowledged as the largest faith-based redevelopment project in Western Europe. Mason is a close advisor to Protestant ex-combatants on the civilianisation efforts of paramilitaries. He was instrumental in facilitating negotiations with paramilitaries and government officials in Northern Ireland, and in 2007 his contribution was formally recognised by the Queen. 

In 2009, Mason’s church was the stage from which Loyalist paramilitaries announced their weapons decommissioning. Mason has lectured in political and academic forums throughout Europe, South Africa, the Middle East and the U.S.A. on lessons from the Irish peace process. He has been interviewed on CNN, BBC, ITV and various radio programs. He holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Ulster, completed his theological studies at Queens University and has a Bachelor’s in Business Studies from the University of Ulster. Gary is a Senior Research Fellow at the Kennedy Institute for Conflict Intervention at Maynooth University in Ireland. He is an Adjunct Professor at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, lecturing on reconciliation, peace building and the history of the Northern Ireland conflict, racism, sectarianism and conflict transformation. Gary is a faculty advisor and partner to the Negotiation Strategies Institute a Harvard University programme on negotiation.

Rev. John Miles has been pastor of Jonesboro, AR First United Methodist Church, leading it through continued growth since he joined it in 2006. Previously he served Heber Springs United Methodist Church and other churches in AR for a total of 39 years.

He was honored with the Denman Evangelism award from the Arkansas Conference. John has degrees from Hendrix College Perkins School of Theology at SMU. John is married to Susan Smith Miles. John has two grown children.

Dr. Heath Peloquin joined the staff of Summer Grove Baptist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana on November 18, 2018 after serving as the Director of Missions for the North Texas Baptist Association. He has over 23 years’ experience in ministry. He received his Doctor of Ministry in Evangelism and Missions from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also received a Bachelor of Music in Church Music from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor.

Dr. Peloquin and his wife, Jennifer have four children, Emilee, Ethan, Anna and Logan.

God has gifted Heath with tremendous enthusiasm and passion for the lost. His faithfulness to the Word of God and his communication style make his sermons both powerful and engaging. He is uniquely gifted to clearly communicate the Gospel to all ages. He possesses the rare qualities of an evangelist heart, faithfulness to God’s word, and the ability to relate to all he meets.

Rev. Phil Print is the Lead Pastor of Crossroads Church in MN - a multi-site church with 4 campuses, 45 staff members, and over 3,000 attendees.  More importantly, he’s a husband, father, grandfather, and follower of Jesus.  Phil is a graduate of Bethel University and Denver Seminary. Phil has been an adjunct professor in the preaching department at Bethel Seminary for 12 years. He enjoys pickleball, fishing, hanging out at coffee shops, and turning people on to God, His Church, and His Word.

Matt Rawle is the Lead Pastor at Asbury United Methodist Church in Bossier City, Louisiana, and a graduate from the LSU School of Music and Duke Divinity School. Matt is an international speaker who loves to tell an old story in a new way, especially at the intersection of pop culture and the church. He is also the author of The Heart that Grew Three Sizes, The Grace of Les Misérables, What Makes a Hero?, The Faith of a Mockingbird, Hollywood Jesus, The Salvation of Doctor Who, and The Redemption of Scrooge. My wife, Christie, and I have four pretty awesome kids: Isabelle, Annaleigh, Cecilia, and Robert.

James Ridgway, President & CEO of Educational Opportunities Tours, has enjoyed a lifetime of international travel from which he has developed a great appreciation for art and kaiserschmarrn. James is a respected leader in the travel industry worldwide but his heart is focused on the ministry of the Church. He has assisted local pastors and congregations as well as national and international church leaders change lives through Christian travel.

Susan Robb, is the author of Seven Words: Listening to Christ from the Cross and Called, Hearing and Responding to God’s Voice. She is the former Senior Associate Minister and Pastor to Cox Chapel at Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas, TX, where she served on the church staff for 20 years. God’s call led her to pursue a Master of Divinity degree at Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. She graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2006 with an award in Homiletics. Susan’s area of expertise lies in writing and teaching Bible studies, exploring the idea of listening to and responding to God’s call with others, and mentoring those in the process of ordination. She is married to Ike, and they have two children, Caroline and James, and an adored St. Bernard named Maggie.

The Rev. C.K. “Chuck” Robertson is an internationally respected speaker and past EO Guest Speaker. He is a visiting professor at various seminaries, and senior review leader for Paul’s epistles for the recently completed NRSV Updated Edition of the Bible. He travels the world in his work for The Episcopal Church. Chuck has written many books including Barnabas vs. Paul, Conversations with Scripture: Acts of the Apostles, and Jesus & Paul: Global Perspectives, as well as books on religion and popular culture, including Theology & Batman. He is also producer of the recent documentary, A Case for Love.

Rick Rusaw serves as President of Spire Network, whose mission is to encourage and equip ministry leaders. Previously, he served as Lead Pastor at LifeBridge Christian Church in Longmont, CO for 28 years. He is the author of three books. Rick has a passion to help churches see beyond themselves and engaging their communities. He and his wife Diane are avid worldwide travelers. 

Paul is an accomplished vocalist and pianist. He has performed on some of the biggest stages in the world in opera, Broadway and Christian music. His passion is leading people in worship. He has served in churches since the age of 13 and is currently Director of Music Ministries at Centenary United Methodist Church in New Bern, NC. He also leads worship for special events and performs concerts around the country.

Susan Salley is an Associate Publisher at Abingdon Press, the publishing arm of The United Methodist Publishing House. Her team works on inspirational books and media-based Bible study. She received her MBA at The Owen Graduate School of Management. Her first career was in the tour industry creating a lifelong love of travel.

Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz is the Executive Director of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty in Washington, DC.  Previously, he was the Speaker of The Lutheran Hour radio program with over 1 million listeners across North America. He has also served at Concordia University Irvine, Life's Journey Ministries and in congregations in New York city, Dallas and Tampa.

Rebekah is passionate about reconnecting spiritual leaders with their God-given powers to co-create miracles with the divine. Her award-winning group coaching program, creating a Culture of Renewal® has energized church leaders across the country to reclaim their calling and to grow their ministries. Known for teaching leaders how to bring out the best in the people who frustrate them the most, her work transforms church leaders and the congregations they serve.

Rebekah is the author of Forging a New Path: Moving the Church Forward in a Post-Pandemic World, Dream Like Jesus®, The Jew Named Jesus, Green Church, Green Church Leader Guide, and 7 Simple Steps to Green Your Church.

A dynamic speaker, Rebekah has engaged and challenged audiences around the country. When she’s not on the road, you can find her on the hiking trail with her dog Beau or concocting in the kitchen with her wonderful husband Jerry Gonzales.

Rev. Dr. Thomas Smith is “Tom” to his friends, “honey” to wife Cathy, “dad” to his sons, and “Grumps”
to his four grandchildren. His journey from working with the Kentucky State Police to supervising a
factory that made explosives uniquely qualified him for serving 37 years as a pastor in churches of all
shapes and sizes, rural, county seat, urban and suburban. Tom is captivated by the beauty of nature. The
diversity of geography and how it intertwines with and affects history fascinates him. His book, Twilight
Springs, captures his vision of “the created seeing the Creator in creation.” His goal as a pastor, friend
and sojourner has been to help people glimpse the “Holy.” A few years ago, he “bought the farm”
literally, as he purchased a small farm in anticipation of retiring and spending time there. However, he
jumped at the chance to join Educational Opportunities as Executive Director of Travel Ministry in 2019
because he believes that travel changes people. He is aware of how impactful his travels have been on
him and loves to share that with others. Each and every journey has given opportunity for “thin space”
encounters that have shaped and formed his life and ministry.

Dr. Lester Spencer is Lead Pastor at St. James Church in Montgomery, AL (until September 1, 2023)  and is also President Pro Tem of the Alabama Emerald Coast Conference of the GMC. Lester also served other large churches in AL and FL after earning degrees at Auburn University and Candler School of Theology, Emory University. Lester has served or currently serves as President and on the Board of Directors of various ministry and mission organizations and has traveled extensively around the world.

Janeese Spencer is the CEO and Founder of Venture Life Coaching. She is an Executive Director with The John Maxwell Team as well as an ordained deacon (soon to be elder) in the GMC. She has over 30 years of experience speaking at conferences and retreats around the southeast. Janeese also writes and teaches Bible studies.

Lester and Janeese, have been married over 30 years and have 3 children and a son-in-law.

Dr. Lester Spencer has served as the Lead Pastor of St. James Church in Montgomery, AL for over 25 years. He is also President Pro Tem of the Alabama Emerald Coast Conference of the GMC. Lester also served other large churches in AL and FL after earning degrees at Auburn University and Candler School of Theology, Emory University. Lester has served or currently serves as President and on the Board of Directors of various ministry and mission organizations and has traveled extensively around the world.  

Janeese Spencer is the CEO and Founder of Venture Life Coaching. She is an Executive Director with The John Maxwell Team as well as an ordained deacon (soon to be elder) in the GMC. She has over 30 years of experience speaking at conferences and retreats around the southeast. Janeese also writes and teaches Bible studies.  

Lester and Janeese, have been married over 30 years and have 3 children and a son-in-law.  

Rev. Shane Stanford, D.D.- Senior Teaching Pastor of Christ UMC, Memphis, TN and author of 18 books including ‘A Positive Life’; ‘When God Disappears’, and ‘The CURE for the Chronic Life’.

Summerlee Staten is the Executive Director of Faith Formation & Education at Trinity Church Wall Street, a historic Episcopal Church in New York City, where she oversees adult and chil­dren’s ministries, and public-facing faith-based programs. Summerlee has a Master of Divinity Degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Master of Sacred Theology Degree from Yale Divinity School, where she focused on Biblical studies and Faith Formation and Education in church communities. She loves teaching and learning from people of all faith backgrounds, sharing in conversations and hearing about the spiritual journeys of others.

Rev. Dr. Brad Strait loves people – a hyper-extrovert who gets recharged hanging out with people. He is a global-hearted shepherd and loves traveling. He has studied, learned from, worked among, and laughed with people all over the world. Brad serves as Lead Pastor of Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church in Englewood, Colorado, and was Moderator of the 41st Evangelical Presbyterian Church General Assembly in 2022. He also teaches at Denver Seminary. He has also served as a Chaplain for fire and police departments and the Colorado House of Representatives.

Clark is an Executive Regional Director of PastorServe. Previously, he led a mega-church for many years. His mission is to engage, equip, encourage and ignite pastors to become the leader God designed them to be. Clark conducts leadership seminars that coach and equip church leaders. He also loves helping redirect churches that have lost their focus and passion. Another focus area is succession planning for the local church. Clark and his wife, Glennie, enjoy sharing ministry together and live in Portland, OR.

Albert is a gifted and dynamic communicator who is passionate about sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the local and global church. Albert presents the Gospel to people across the country in academic, retreat and conference settings combining humor and storytelling of God’s amazing grace and love. His unique and passionate style from the pulpit combines inspiration and challenge, laughter and tears as people are engaged at their core. His hope for Fellowship is to cultivate a community of disciples that is unleashed to live out the Gospel by Growing in a life of worship, Gathering in community and Giving their lives away on mission.

Emmy award-winning artist/videographer/teacher Anthony Thaxton will present Drawn to Christ; an experience of the power and poignant beauty of watercolors taught by a master. Anthony is the Director of Creativity for The Moore-West Center.

Rev. Dr. Byron E. Thomas is a native of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. A veteran of the United States Air Force, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion and Philosophy from Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia and a Master of Divinity degree from Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. He also holds a Certificate in Executive Leadership from McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, Illinois. In 2016, Rev. Dr. Thomas graduated from the Association of Chicago Theological Schools (ACTS) program with a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) in Preaching through McCormick Theological Seminary. 

Rev. Dr. Thomas has served as Senior Pastor of Ben Hill United Methodist Church in Atlanta, Georgia since June 2013 where his focus has been on strengthening the link between spiritual formation and missions. Placing a premium on discipleship as opposed to membership, he has emphasized the importance of spiritual formation as foundational for faithfully executing the ministry God has entrusted to the Church. Rev. Dr. Thomas teaches the Six Marks of Discipleship as foundational principles and practices that support the vision and mission of the church. He encourages believers to participate in worship weekly, engage in daily Bible Study, engage in daily prayer, serve others, give, and develop spiritual friendships. He is a servant leader who works to implement the finest principles of Discipleship and Social Justice.

Rev. Dr. Thomas currently serves as the chair of the North Georgia Conference Delegation to the 2020 General and Jurisdictional Conferences. He has been appointed to serve as District Superintendent of the Central South District, which includes DeKalb, Henry, Newton, and Rockdale Counties effective July 1, 2021. Rev. Dr. Thomas is married to DuWanna and they are the proud parents of two wonderful sons, Ntchwaidumela and Mustafa.

Rev. Brian Tillman is Associate Pastor at Ben Hill United Methodist Church in Atlanta, GA. Rev. Tillman is committed to the core values of grace & mercy AND justice & righteousness, all wrapped up in the love of Jesus Christ. His passion for racial justice and reconciliation began at Morehouse College and continued when he created the Candler Society for Multiracial Congregations at Candler School of Theology. As Chair of the Commission on Religion and Race for the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church, he works to bring the church to racial justice and reconciliation. 

Pastor Bill serves at Concordia Lutheran Church of San Antonio, TX as the Senior Pastor. Bill has also pastored in Illinois and was a Marine Corp and fire/police chaplain. He is co-founder of Pastor360. com which supports and trains pastors. Bill and his wife Julie have led numerous mission trips and journeys to the Holy Land.

Julie serves at Concordia Lutheran Church of San Antonio, TX as Director of Missions & Retreats. Julie is also Emergency Management Director for the Texas District of the LCMS and assists EO with the Ukraine refugee project in Jerusalem. Julie and her husband have led numerous mission trips and journeys to the Holy Land.

Matt  serves as an Executive Minister at Highland Park UMC in Dallas, Texas where he leads HPUMC’s contemporary worship community, Cornerstone.  Matt is known as a gifted preacher and teacher, with a passion for helping people engage with the bible and a conversational style that helps people connect with his messages. Previously, he served churches in Georgia and Virginia. Prior to being in ministry, Matt worked in special education and as a nature guide. Matt is married to Amy and they have three children. Matt spends most of his time with his family or congregation, but also enjoys a variety of outdoor activities and reading.

Amy Van Dyke, Lead Curator of Art & Exhibitions at the Museum of the Bible, has training and degrees in art history, secondary education, and museum studies. She has taught various courses in art, art history, and world history. She also developed and wrote a school-wide art curriculum. Amy has given several lectures, including “Biblical Art and Theology: How Artists Influence our Understanding of the Bible” and “How to Illustrate God: The Difficulty in Depicting the Divine.” Since joining Museum of the Bible in 2012, Amy has coordinated, written, or assisted with over 50 exhibitions. Her current work as lead curator of art and exhibitions involves developing content, coordinating and curating exhibitions, and researching, lecturing, and curating the art within the museum collections.

Magrey deVega is the senior pastor of Hyde Park United Methodist Church in Tampa, Florida. He is the author of eleven books, most recently The Bible Year: a Journey through Scripture in 365 Days and Questions Jesus Asked: A Six-Week Study in the Gospels, both by Abingdon Press. He has been the featured speaker and workshop presenter at conferences nationwide and is the proud father of two college-aged children who share his love for reading, Marvel movies, and live theater.

The Rev. Dr. Peter Walker first visited the Holy Land in 1981 and has been leading tours on a regular basis since 1984—tours for clergy, students, and lay people, tours for people from every continent (but especially UK, North America, and East Africa). He has a particular interest in helping those in ordained ministry to gain insights from their visit to the Holy Land which will inform their life-long teaching ministry.

His own doctoral research work investigated how the first Christians understood the significance of Jerusalem—from the time of the apostles through to the Byzantine era in the fourth century. Peter has written numerous books, including popular-level books In the Steps of Jesus, The Story of the Holy Land, and In the Steps of Saint Paul.

The Rev. Dr. Debra Wallace-Padgett is a Bishop of The United Methodist Church. She currently serves the North Alabama and Holston Conferences. Debra is also the chair of the standing Committee on Evangelism for the World Methodist Council. Previously, she served local churches in Kentucky and held numerous leadership roles at the Conference, Jurisdictional, and the General Conference levels. She is married to the Rev. Lee Padgett and they have two grown children and 2 granddaughters.

Rev. Dr. Laceye Warner is the Royce and Jane Reynolds Associate Professor of the Practice of Evangelism and Methodist Studies and Associate Dean for Wesleyan Engagement at Duke University Divinity School in Durham, NC. She earned her Ph.D. in Historical Theology from Trinity College, University of Bristol, U.K. Among her areas of expertise are women in church history and practices of Christian mission and discipleship. Warner is the author of numerous books and articles. Dr. Warner lives in Texas on a farm with her husband and daughter, where they care for a variety of creatures. She is also a licensed flower farmer and enjoys cultivating sustainably grown flowers for their local church and community.

Bishop Watson is the Ecumenical Officer for the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church. Previously, he served as Bishop in Georgia for 16 years. Mike has served on the boards of many United Methodist and World Methodist boards, agencies, and organizations, as well as colleges, universities, and seminaries. He has visited 70 countries, speaking in over 35 of them. He and his wife Margaret have 2 children and are proud grandparents of 6 grandchildren. 

Bishop Willimon is the most read author among United Methodist pastors. He is a Professor at Duke Divinity School and former Dean at Duke Chapel. His works include books on the Methodist Reformation, Revitalization of the Local Church, Evangelism of young adults and missions.

As an engaging leader and speaker, Don has held several pastoral and leadership positions. In 1982, he and his wife Sue started Christ’s Church of the Valley in his living room, and it expanded to include eight campuses in the greater Phoenix area with attendance over 27,000 and a 300-person staff. In addition, Don has conducted leadership training for over 7,000 pastors and leaders internationally. He recently launched Accelerate Group with a primary purpose to address the challenges of pastors and wives across the US and beyond. Some statistics indicate an 80%+ dropout rate of pastors within the first five years of ministry due to the demands of the job. Accelerate Group also focuses on leadership selection and transition, governance and role definitions to enable organizations to function more effectively.

Ben Witherington III (PhD, University of Durham) is a prominent evangelical scholar and Jean R. Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. Witherington has written over forty books, including The Jesus Quest and The Paul Quest, both of which were selected as top biblical studies works by Christianity Today. His other works include The Indelible Image, Women and the Genesis of Christianity, The Gospel Code, A Week in the Life of Corinth, and commentaries on the entire New Testament. He also writes for many church and scholarly publications and is a frequent contributor to Patheos and Beliefnet.

Witherington is an elected member of the prestigious Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas, a society dedicated to New Testament studies. He is a John Wesley Fellow for Life, a research fellow at Cambridge University, and a member of numerous professional organizations, including the Society of Biblical Literature, Society for the Study of the New Testament, and the Institute for Biblical Research. He previously taught at institutions like Ashland Theological Seminary, Vanderbilt University, Duke Divinity School, and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.

An ordained pastor in the United Methodist Church and a popular lecturer, Witherington has presented seminars for churches, colleges, and biblical meetings around the world. He has led numerous study tours through the lands of the Bible and is known for bringing the text to life through incisive historical and cultural analysis. Along with many interviews on radio and television networks across the country, Witherington has been seen in programs such as 60 Minutes, 20/20, Dateline, and the Peter Jennings ABC special Jesus and Paul—The Word and the Witness.

Dr. Carla Swafford Works (Ph.D., Princeton Theological Seminary) is Professor of New Testament at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. Her research interests encompass the Pauline epistles, the New Testament’s use of Israel’s scriptures, biblical ethics, and theological interpretation. (Her publications include The Least of These: Paul and the Marginalized (Eerdmans, 2020), The Church in the Wilderness: Paul's Use of Exodus Traditions in 1 Corinthians (Mohr Siebeck, 2014), and "Philippians" in The Women's Bible Commentary (Westminster John Knox, 2012). She is passionate about teaching and learning for the service of the church and enjoys leading student groups to the Holy Land, Greece, and Turkey to see the biblical texts come alive in their midst.

K. K. Yeo, Harry R. Kendall Professor of New Testament at Garrett-Evangelical Seminary, Affiliate Faculty at the Department of Asian Languages and Cultures at Northwestern University (Evanston), and a Visiting Professor of Minzu University and Tsinghua University in China. He is a Lilly Scholar (1999) and Henry Luce III Scholar (2003). He has authored or edited more than 35 Chinese and English language books on critical engagement between Bible and cultures. He loves the Bible and the land and its rich cultures, thus very much likes to share with you in this study tour and pilgrimage. Write him if you have any questions: khiokyeo@gmail.com.

Pastor Phil Young currently serves as the Mature Adult Pastor at Lakes Church in Lakeland Florida. Having served in ministry for 45 years, Pastor Phil holds a Masters of Pastoral Ministry from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a Master of Church Music from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. As well as serving churches in Florida, Pastor Phil is a native of New York State and has served churches in New England and done mission work in Canada so he brings a unique faith perspective to people of the region. Plan to join him as he takes an in depth look at Paul's letter to the Colossians and how it relates to this region that was the birthplace of the Great Awakening of the 18th Century. Pastor Phil and his wife Janet have been married 42 years, reside in Lakeland and have 5 married children and 18 grandchildren.