In October 2010, Aldersgate will partner with Beth El Hebrew Congregation for a joint journey to the Holy Land. The trip represents the larger effort of Aldersgate’s pastors to establish a deep and collaborative relationship with Beth El.
The first step in this relationship is a church-wide study planned for this coming winter, in which Jason and Rabbi Brett will do a joint study of the Gospel of Matthew and the Jewishness of Jesus.
The following step will be a Holy Land Trip in 2010 will include congregants from Beth El. This trip will be unique from most Holy Land trips because it will include visits to significant Christian and Jewish sites. Rabbi Brett R. Isserow, Rev. Dr. Dennis Perry, and Rev. Jason Micheli plan to lead this trip. The lay leader is Tom Devine.
Oberammergau Passion Play
Another possible trip is to see the Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany, the summer of 2010. The Oberammergau Passion Play was first performed in 1634. It is the result of a vow made by the residents that if God spared them from the effects of the bubonic plague they would perform a passion play every ten years. The play is now performed in years ending with a zero, and involves over 2000 actors, singers, instrumentalists and technicians who live in the village.
This proposed 11-day trip would include stops in Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Dr. Perry would attend this trip. The lay leader is Barbara Boyce. All of those who express interest in knowing more about this trip will be invited to attend an informational meeting in July when details, costs, and dates will be discussed.