There’s a trip afoot; another event to include as part of our 125th anniversary celebration. Dr. Barry Wenger, our director of music, Jean Lilley, and Pr. Phyllis Hörmann are planning a pilgrimage to Germany, where we will walk in the footsteps of Martin Luther and revisit our heritage as well as renew our spirits. We are working with Christian Tours Europe based in Wittenberg.
The target departure date for this trip is May 24,, 2026, and the return date is June 5. It will start in Berlin and end in Prague. Travel will be by private motor coach. Between Berlin and Prague, we will spend time in Wittenberg, Torgau, Leipzig, Eisleben, Erfurt, Eisenach, and Dresden. It will be a pilgrimage filled with interesting stories and history from a couple of pastors as well as local guides. Besides walking in Luther’s footsteps, we will visit other significant religious and historical sites, museums, churches, and castles and see some beautiful countryside. We will hear organ concerts compliments of Dr. Barry and possibly other organists or a choir. Details and registration information will be available in the next few weeks, as we continue our planning with the tour company.
Space is limited! Our current plans are for a group of 30 participants. Once registration is open, we will operate on a first come, first served basis. LCH ‘ohana members will have priority, but we will open the tour up to others should we have room. Cost is based on the number of participants and for 30 is $2800/person for double occupancy. Included in the cost is ground transportation, hotel accommodations, and most meals, entrance fees, and tips. It does not include air fare to and from Europe. A non-refundable $1,000 deposit will be required upon submission of the registration form. Deadline is still to be determined. Full payment is due 10 weeks prior to departure. Payments are to be made to the Lutheran Church of Honolulu.
Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Europe. Randy Christensen has kindly offered to help with flight arrangements for those who wish it and will book a desired flight for $25. Should you choose to book a flight he finds, there is no charge.
A couple of notes up front: Participants may consider purchasing trip insurance to cover health, including medical transportation, if necessary, trip cancellation, and loss of baggage. You will need a passport (check your expiration date now). Also, please note that there will be a certain amount of walking involved as we tour the small towns of Luther. Some hotel accommodations may not have elevators and steps may be involved as well.