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Israel May 2024

COR 375 Dr. Tom Holsinger-Friesen & Dr. Brian Kono

$1,600 student cost*

*Cost with the full university discount. $150 study abroad fee is not included in this amount.  University  discount applies to 1st CCS program only. Students who transfer in 58+ credits should contact the CCS  office to determine their level of discount.

The modern nation of Israel occupies land that is strategic – geographically and religiously. Historically, this land has been identified as Canaan, Biblical Israel, Roman Palestine, the Holy Land, part of the Ottoman Empire, and more. After British administration of the territory ended in 1948, the state of Israel was born. The fact that the nation sought to be both a Jewish homeland and a democracy reflects an idealism that generates social tensions up to this day. Significant numbers of Palestinian Arab and Christian residents within this national jurisdiction have since struggled for equality and justice. The SAU cross-cultural program will provide opportunities for students to engage a variety of people and cultures within Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and secular traditions in Israel.

Learning activities may include:

Economics

Witness the dynamic and diverse economy of Israel – from Tel Aviv’s “Silicon Wadi” to the massive traditional Middle Eastern market, Carmel Shuk. Hear lectures in Eliat from agricultural specialists and learn of technology used in the Negev Desert. Meet with scholars at the Tel Aviv University for more insight on the state of Israel, its history before 1948, and more.

Education

Meet with Faydra Shapiro, a noted educational expert and discuss Jewish views of education and family life. Experience the UN refugee camp in Bethlehem and talk with the teachers in the school there. Participate in a service project with Bridges for Peace and learn about the educational system of Israel.

Family

Talk with senior citizens to learn how family life has changed over the last 50 years. Speak with local college students about marriage, family, child rearing, divorce/remarriage, elder care, and learn about their views on government and minority policies. Experience Shabbat with possible weekend or overnight stays with Jewish families.

Government

Visit the U.S. Embassy and learn more about U.S. and Israeli relations. Tour and talk with a member of the Knesset to gain an understanding of Israel’s form of government, its pro-settlement policies, and its relationships with neighboring Arab states. What long term trends for regional peace are emerging? Talk with a member of the Knesset Christian Allies Caucus and learn how Christians are making a difference in diplomacy around the world.

Religion

Visit a mosque and learn about Muslim beliefs and practices. Attend a Shabbat service with a Messianic Jewish congregation and get your questions answered. Participate in an evangelical or mainline Christian service comparing it with the other religious traditions we experience on the program. Speak with leaders on Christian/Jewish relations in Israel.

Other highlights may include:

Visit sacred sites such as the Western Wall, the Sea of Galilee, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (site of Jesus’s crucifixion and tomb) to learn about pilgrimage and religious experience. Stand on the heights of the fortress of Masada (once besieged by Roman armies) and float in the depths of the Dead Sea (the lowest spot on Earth).

Young woman looks over a desert with flag of Israel behind her.

Travel Information

Departure Dates

May 2024 experiences will begin sometime during the week following the projected commencement date and will last 19–23 days. Students should not make irreversible plans until their departure date is confirmed by the CCS office in February 2024.

Health & Safety

This experience, like all CCS experiences, is subject to political and safety realities at the time of departure. CCS options can be physically and emotionally intense and stretching. Before enrolling, all participants should consult the disclosures on Physical Hardships of CCS.

Covid shots are not required as of December 2022 for Israel. For more details on required immunizations consult the immunizations chart.

Passports and immunizations required (both at additional cost).

Trip Costs

CCS May program costs do not include summer school tuition charges. Participants who are full-time students at SAU both fall and spring semesters 2023–2024 are encouraged to consider NOT taking a class for interim (January 2024), as the available January credits may then be applied to the summer school tuition charges of a May or Summer 2024 CCS. Tuition and program costs are separate monies.

CCS program costs do not include: tuition, passport, immunizations, or the $150 study away fee. The study away fee provides basic medical evacuation insurance, travel photos, and support services.

CCS trips are not guaranteed and are subject to change.