Going On Faith Fall 2025

Gozo: an island-sanctuary of Marian devotion

Jean Pierre Fava - VisitMalta

Marian devotion in the Maltese Islands began with Christianity itself. Our special patron is the Blessed Virgin Mary in her Assumption; the Archipelago is dotted with churches dedicated to the Assumption –the Gozo Cathedral being the archipelago’s highest-ranking church with this title. A number of documents prove that the first church on the site predates the cathedral by centuries. It was possibly dedicated to the Dormition of Mary, from which the title of the Assumption developed.

The first church too has predecessors. The earliest was probably a megalithic temple. It is possible that Iċ-Ċittadella – the site of today’s cathedral – became a center of activity in an early prehistoric period. Its position, together with its covering of red topsoil, considered sacred by the Neolithics, made it an ideal temple site, but successive cultures wiped out the remains of previous settlements.

The National Shrine of Gozo – the Sanctuary of the Madonna Ta’ Pinu - also goes back centuries. Indeed, the beginnings of the devotion to the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu are so ancient that they are lost in the midst of time. Eventually, due to the happenings of 1883, the modest unknown chapel in the countryside became a revered Marian Shrine, visited by locals and foreigners. The Ta’ Pinu Marian Shrine is also known as “The Church of Miracles”.

On the 22nd June 1883, Karmni Grima from Għarb heard a call on her way home. A mysterious voice called her three times: ‘Come! Come! Come!’. The same mysterious voice again told her: ‘Come, come, today, because a year will have passed before you will be able to visit this place again’. So she walked towards the chapel in awe figuring that she would see the Blessed Virgin. Recovering her composure, she entered the chapel and prayed, a feeling of ineffable rapture gripped her. The same voice said: ‘Recite three Hail Marys in remembrance of the three days during which my body lay in the tomb’. For two years Karmni said not a word about what had happened. Then she disclosed her secret to Franġisk Portelli; an upright man who was renowned for his devotion to Our Lady. Franġisk told her that at about the same time, he had heard a mysterious voice asking him to say prayers in honour of Christ’s hidden shoulder wound caused by the weight of the heavy cross along the path to Calvary. A short time later, Franġisk’s mother was miraculously healed by the intercession of the Blessed Virgin. Extant documents written by Karmni’s spiritual director also testify that the Blessed Virgin appeared to her even at her home . Today, Karmni’s home is open to visitors.

Apart from these major churches, Gozo is also full of chapels. Although tiny and less renowned, these arouse deep devotion. For instance, the ancient Church of the Visitation of Our Lady to St. Elisabeth in Għarb, also known as “Il-Knisja tażŻejt” (Church of the Oil) has a strong tradition surrounding it. There was a poor pious woman named Marija (Mary in Maltese), whose only source of income was weaving lace.

Throughout her life she visited this sanctuary and prayed fervently. Every day she would pick flowers from the fields and offer them to the Madonna. But she lacked the means to buy oil daily to fill the Madonna’s lamp. She prayed the Blessed Mary for help. Marija fell ill and she became poorer. So, in the silence of her home, she prayed and asked Mary to help her heal. Suddenly, when she was alone in her room, a beautiful shining woman appeared to Marija. The glowing lady ask her to get out of bed and go to church with a jar – and so she did. As soon as Marija arrived near the chapel, she saw a large stream of oil coming out from under this tiny church. Then she remembered what the beautiful lady had told her. Marija was now convinced that the lady was the Blessed Virgin Mary. She filled up the jar, knowing that there was enough oil to light the lamp in front of the Madonna and the whole of Gozo! The news spread like wildfire throughout the Archipelago, and hundreds went to pray to The Lady of the Oil.

The Marian devotion in Gozo is evident through fervent faith, majestic churches and shrines, “tiny” millennial chapels, and so much more - like the little church of the Immaculate Conception of Qala, also going back many centuries. Another witness to this solid faith is the sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Għajnsielem, reminding us that Our Lady’s apparitions and miracles, of 1858 in the Grotto of Massabielle, were embraced by the Gozitans before they were officially approved in France.

North Carolina’s uncrowded coast is the delightfully-perfect place to plan any size group getaway. Visit crystalcoastnc.com/gof to get started.

Groups holding retreats at Campus by the Sea outside Los Angeles can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Photo courtesy Campus by the Sea.

Museum moments make a fascinating way to explore the Peach State.

These facilities offer visitors peace, quiet and beautiful views. Malta offers a gorgeous blend of

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The Cincy Region wowed faith-based travel planners at this annual event.

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Invite your group to discover a powerful story of hope at the Billy Graham Library. Together, you can retrace Billy Graham’s journey of faith as you explore multimedia presentations, displays, photos, and memorabilia. Come see what God can do through a life that is fully surrendered to Him.

Making space SPIRITUAL GROWTH for

BY BRIAN JEWELL

Some of the most impactful spiritual experiences take place outside of a church.

At a basic level, your church group’s travel activities probably look a lot like most any other tour group’s — you gather with some like-minded friends, travel via motorcoach, visit attractions, stay in hotels and eat in restaurants. But yours is not just any tour group. Because you have a higher purpose in mind.

At their best, faith-based trips can usher people into deep spiritual experiences. Some of those can feel more authentic or meaningful than what typically happens at church on Sunday.

Here are five subtle ways to create space for spiritual impact on your next trip — without making it feel like a church service.

later starts

Christian author John Mark Comer struck a chord in popular culture several years ago when he published “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry,” a book that inspired thousands of people to pursue spiritual growth by intentionally slowing their pace of life. It’s an outlook that might serve faith-based travel groups well, too. Instead of starting the day early and cramming as much activity as possible into the itinerary, consider a lighter schedule and a later start, giving your travelers time for independent mindfulness, reflection and prayer.

time outdoors

When it comes to forging connections with a higher power, few experiences can match the effectiveness of spending time immersed in the wonders of nature. Time outdoors can help people relieve stress, center themselves and reframe their perspective on their place in the universe. You can facilitate this by creating opportunities for your travelers to spend quiet, slowly paced time in the scenic settings that are unique to each destination the group visits.

acts of generosity

Faith leaders throughout the centuries have consistently taught that generosity is a key to contentment, fulfilment and growth. Most travel is inherently self-focused by default, but it doesn’t have to be. You can help your travelers grow by creating opportunities for acts of generosity during your trips. This could mean being generous with their time, for instance, by spending part of the trip volunteering with a local ministry or nonprofit. It could also mean being generous with their resources by identifying a need or a cause in the communities they visit and contributing to it financially.

intentional conversations

One of the great benefits of group travel is that it sets the stage for new relationships to form and for existing ones to blossom. Much of that happens through organic conversation, but you can help catalyze that growth by suggesting conversation topics that will take people deeper than surface-level small talk. Whether it’s at a group dinner or during longer periods on the motorcoach, consider giving people conversation prompts or thought-provoking questions that may draw them into deeper connections with each other — and with God.

intergenerational experience

Much of church travel is siloed by generations — the senior adult Bible study group takes one trip, while the youth group takes another. Though there are some benefits to traveling with people from a similar background, there may be even more benefit to cross-pollinating age groups. Young travelers may find sources of wisdom, encouragement and mentorship; older folks could find new vitality in spending time with and serving the next generation. Opening up even one trip a year to the entire congregation could pay dividends that extend far beyond the duration of the itinerary.

Faith, History and Travel in America’s 250th: The Elizabeth Story

BY REV. DR. WANDA M. LUNDY

At the recent Going On Faith Conference for religious travel planners in the Cincy Region, I was reminded of something profound: faith is not only expressed in worship but also in the very act of travel. Journeying — whether to ancient cathedrals, sacred cemeteries or bustling marketplaces — is a way to encounter God’s story in community. Elizabeth, New Jersey, says to the world, Welcome World. Here, faith, history and travel converge in powerful ways.

A Living Tapestry of Faith

Founded in 1664, Elizabeth is New Jersey’s first permanent English settlement and a city where faith shaped freedom. The First Presbyterian Church was both sanctuary and statehouse, hosting the New Jersey Provincial Congress. Just steps away, the

Old First Cemetery holds patriots, pastors and pioneers whose lives testify to the resilience of belief under trial. To walk here is to trace the roots of America’s religious and civic identity.

But Elizabeth is not a relic — it is a living tapestry of faith. Today more than 50 denominations worship here, from historic Protestant congregations to Catholic parishes, synagogues, mosques and temples. This diversity will be on full display during Elizabeth’s year-long 250th commemoration (October 2025–October 2026). Events include the Old First Cemetery Reunion of Descendants, an Intergenerational Spelling Bee, interfaith worship services and heritage tours such as the Revolutionary Faith Trail.

Faith in Abundance

Pilgrims will also find abundance: Portuguese seafood, Colombian arepas, Haitian cuisine and Italian trattorias. At The Mills at Jersey Gardens — the state’s largest outlet mall — visitors can join a cultural scavenger hunt linking shopping with history. Elizabeth offers group-friendly hotels, walkable itineraries and easy access to Newark Liberty International Airport. And with FIFA 2026 bringing global visitors to the region, faith travelers can experience both the sacred past and the world’s biggest game. Visiting and staying in Elizabeth truly places you at the center of it all. In less than an hour you can be in New York City, Philadelphia, or even Boston — making Elizabeth both a pilgrimage site in its own right and a gateway to America’s great historic cities. Welcome World — your journey starts here.

TO PLAN YOUR PILGRIMAGE, CONTACT: JOSH ROUSE JROUSE@GOELIZABETHNJ.COM GOELIZABETHNJ250.COM goelizabethnj250.com

AS THE U.S. NEARS ITS 250 BIRTHDAY IN 2026, EXPLORE ITS REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. EXPERIENCE ELIZABETH...

IN 2026, EXPLORE ITS REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. EXPERIENCE ELIZABETH...

She’ll surprise you!

Step into the heart of New Jersey’s Revolutionary past! Just minutes from New York City and centrally located with easy access to major highways, airports, trains, buses, and seaport— we are the gateway to the state of New Jersey. Elizabeth invites you to walk in the footsteps of Founding Fathers. Walk the very battlegrounds where history was made, and tour the former home and school of Alexander Hamilton. Visit the residence that hosted Marquis de Lafayette, and explore Aaron Burr’s alma mater. Stand where George Washington once dined at Elias Boudinot’s home. Discover America’s oldest piano house and view one of the nation’s earliest Bibles. Visit New Jersey’s first capital established in 1664, and pay tribute at the burial sites of prominent Revolutionary War figures. We invite you to come, visit, and stay...at the center of it all!

Step into the heart of New Jersey’s Revolutionary past! Just minutes from New York City and centrally located with easy access to major highways, airports, trains, buses, and seaport— we are the gateway to the state of New Jersey. Elizabeth invites you to walk in the footsteps of Founding Fathers. Walk the very battlegrounds where history was made, and tour the former home and school of Alexander Hamilton. Visit the residence that hosted Marquis de Lafayette, and explore Aaron Burr’s alma mater. Stand where George Washington once dined at Elias Boudinot’s home. Discover America’s oldest piano house and view one of the nation’s earliest Bibles. Visit New Jersey’s first capital established in 1664, and pay tribute at the burial sites of prominent Revolutionary War figures. We invite you to come, visit, and stay...at the center of it all!

GOFC Cincy Region Highlight Superb Events in

BY

More than 200 faith-based buyers and sellers gathered August 6–8 in the Cincy Region for the 2025 Going On Faith Conference, where they were treated to an evening dinner cruise hosted by BB Riverboats and an afternoon tour of the Ark Encounter. The conference was held at the Marriott Cincinnati Airport in Hebron, Kentucky, and two busy marketplace sessions yielded hundreds of appointments between attendees from the United States, Ireland and Italy.

“The entire crew from the Cincy Region did a

magnificent job for our delegates,” said Going On Faith Conference general manager Jennifer Ferguson. “We’d like to recognize Lorey Hall and Stacey Howell of the Cincy Region, Nancy Willhoite of BB Riverboats and Eddie Lutz of the Ark Encounter for all their hard work to host this exceptional meeting.”

Captain Guy Gruters, a Vietnam War jet pilot who spent five years in a prison camp after being shot down, kicked off the conference with an inspirational recounting of his years during the war. His retelling of the bravery that his personal

faith inspired during that conflict earned a standing ovation.

The BB Riverboats Ohio River dinner cruise took place on a sunlit evening, and, after dinner, delegates gathered on the top deck to take in both sides of the surrounding cityscape. Cincinnati and its landmark stadiums were on full display, and smaller vessels sped by the elegant riverboat in both directions.

The Ark Encounter is one of the most popular Christian sites in America, and delegates spent a couple of hours in the immense structure that

GOING ON FAITH CONFERENCE COVERAGE

immerses guests in the biblical story of Noah, his family and the animal kingdom during the Great Flood. Afterward, many enjoyed the park’s petting zoo or a live performance during the park’s annual 40 Days of Christian Music event. Dinner was served at the on-site restaurant, Emzara’s Buffet.

Other meal sponsors included The Great Passion Play in Eureka Springs and Visit Owensboro, next year’s host city.

“I’m tired, but I’m happy,” said Cincy Region’s Lorey Hall at the conference’s close. “I think

we’ve been able to introduce these planners to some great faith-based stops, including the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum, Patriots Landing, area churches, the American Sign Museum, the Freedom Center and the Kentucky Faith Trail.”

For details on the 2026 Going On Faith Conference in Owensboro, Kentucky, visit gofconference.com.

“We’d like to recognize Lorey Hall and Stacey Howell of the Cincy Region, Nancy Willhoite of BB Riverboats and Eddie Lutz of the Ark Encounter for all their hard work."

— JENNIFER FERGUSON, GOING ON FAITH CONFERENCE

Saying Planners What Travel are

“This year, we did nine days in South Dakota with 40 people. We did a girls’ trip to Jamaica that included scuba diving as a bonding thing. I’m a diver, so I had women — including a 73-year-old — who tried it. There’s a spiritual aspect for me when I get people out of their comfort zones. I had a woman who wanted a ‘one love’ tattoo — I made sure someone good did it. I left the next day for Ireland and had 22 farmers and teachers there. I do my research. We learned about ‘The Troubles’ in Northern Ireland. Then I had a group of 38 in Scotland for seven days. I finished with 16 in London. I was gone for five and a half weeks.”

Tabitha Reeves R&R Travel Higginsville, Missouri

“This year, I did a ladies group of 25 to New York. I’m already putting a trip together back here to the Cincy Region for March 26 next year. I put these places on my social media, and I can fill trips as I go. People follow me and sign up. We’ll do BB Riverboats, the Ark Encounter, the American Sign Museum in Cincinnati and other sites. I’ll have 25 or more, and we’ll do it by bus. I just got back from a cruise to Alaska with 35 or so. That was a cruise/land trip.”

Tonya Matthews

Starstuff Travel Monticello,

Mississippi

“A few years back, I had a midlife crisis and bought a tour company — I should have bought a car! Actually, I love it. Let’s see — in 2025, we took 13 to Utah in June for eight days. We took 14 to Scotland for 11 days. I had 51 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, for five days, and I had 50 in Nashville at the Opryland Hotel for five days. We took 50 to Branson for six days. In 2026, I have a trip to Hawaii on the books for 12 days and already have 51 signed up.”

Deb Nicholson Spectrum Tours Macatawa, Michigan

“Currently, we do a lot of smaller trips, like to French Lick, Indiana, using our own resources. For longer trips or international trips, we’re using major tour companies like Collette or Tauck. We have group clients in Owensboro, Kentucky; Cleveland, Ohio; Pennsylvania; and other places. We do a lot of senior groups and church groups. We also create trips for a group we call ‘Women on the Go.’ We’ve taken them to Charleston, South Carolina; London and Paris; and on an Ohio wineries trip.”

Suzanne Connolly Provident Travel

Cincinnati, Ohio

Saying What

Destinations Travel Companies &

are

“This is exciting for us. We’ve been sponsors for years, but this is an opportunity. This time I can show buyers the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum. Once I get someone here, I can bring them back. Everyone in this region benefits from hosting this conference. We also have our 40 Days Christian Music Festival here right now, so that’s a huge bonus. Many groups will do the Ark in the morning, have lunch at Emzara’s and then do Christian music that afternoon. Their admission covers 40 Days.”

Eddie Lutz

Ark Encounter

Williamstown, Kentucky

“Like many attractions, 2019 had been our benchmark year. We beat that in 2023 and beat 2023 in 2024. We had 600 motorcoach groups in 2024. We work together with the Ark Encounter, so much so that we use the marketing phrase, ‘Two boats in one day.’ I copy all our attractions on our groups — I sell the boat by selling the area. Having these buyers on the boat on a beautiful evening this week was wonderful. We have nine riverboats coming in this October for America’s River Roots Festival. They’ll all be doing three to four cruises per day.”

Nancy Willhoite

BB Riverboats

Newport, Kentucky

“We’re having another record year at Collette. After Italy, Iceland and Ireland, I’d say Portugal, Spain, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Victoria Falls and Botswana are all top sellers. The price point for African destinations does not seem to be a factor. It’s a bucket-list trip that many people are doing this year. Our small group Explorations brand is very hot. We’re adding nine more destinations right now. Cruise fans will do our Spotlight tours because they fit their mode of travel. They unpack once and explore their destination.”

Mitchell Mack Collette

Pawtucket, Rhode Island

“We’re not really known for faith-based tours, but we have several that are selling well here. We offer trips to the Ark and Amish Country that include this area, and our Catholic Heritage Tour showcases the Maryland/Washington, D.C., area. We currently work with about a dozen churches, so I’m excited to see all the interest in this room by so many new churches. We’re adding a tour in 2026 we call ‘History and Humanity: Red Cross’ that highlights the life of Clara Barton. It’s very inspirational.”

Damon Anderson

MARS & Companies

Stevens City, Virginia

“I’m new, and I’m impressed by this group. In Monroe/West Monroe, Louisiana, we offer faith-based groups two focal points — the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens that includes the Coke Museum, and the Duck Commander headquarters from the popular television show a few years back. It is also now the headquarters for a women’s faith-based conference that draws thousands of women annually. I am a vocalist in my church, and I’m interested in young adult groups as well.”

Hollis Walker

Discover Monroe/West Monroe Monroe, Louisiana

“This is my first time attending this conference, and I’m surprised by the interest I’m getting. Half the buyers here have been to Ireland, and the other half want to go. Some of these buyers are doing multiple trips to Ireland each year. We can package anything these buyers want in Ireland. We customize trips much more than the large operators can. That’s our niche. I have to build a relationship first, then I can put together an itinerary and price it.”

Sean Reilly

Joe O’Reilly DMC Ireland

Overland Park, Kansas

Thanks to theseSponsors!

Ark Encounter and Creation Museum

Thursday Breakfast

Branson Restaurant Inc/IMAX

PhotoBooth Sponsor

BB Riverboats

Thursday Grab & Go Lunch Sponsor

Cincy Region

Host City

Circle Wisconsin Name Badge Sponsor

Collette Showcase, National Gold Star Sponsor

Dolly Parton’s Stampede –Pirate’s Voyage Dinner Show Phone Charging

Explore Branson Last Year’s Host

Going On Faith Magazine Magazine Showcase

Great Passion Play

Friday Breakfast

The Group Travel Leader Magazine Showcase

Marriott Cincinnati Airport Host Hotel and Conference Center

Naples—Marco Island—Everglades CVB Showcase

Southwest Adventure Tours National Gold Star Sponsor

Sweet Home Alabama Mobile App Sponsor

Visit Owensboro Friday Lunch

Visit Lubbock Marketplace Sponsor

Visit Oxnard Conference Padfolio

STATE OF FAITH

MemorableGeorgia’s

Museums

TAKE A TRIP THROUGH TIME IN THESE PEACH STATE INSTITUTIONS

BY JILL GLEESON

Whether they’re tasting hundreds of soft drinks from around the world, sitting down together for a Bibleinspired meal or exploring galleries dedicated to the gallant, groups can fully immerse themselves in Georgia’s museums.

These varying institutions tackle a huge range of historical and cultural subject matter, including famous foods and beverages, Georgia’s music scene, the history of biblical times and even global wars. And each museum is bound to fascinate every visitor, no matter their interests, thanks to their captivating collections and interactive exhibits.

Beginning in Atlanta, this itinerary takes historyloving groups southwest to LaGrange and then Columbus before turning east to explore Macon. It then wraps up on the east coast of Georgia in Savannah. Planners should allot five days to complete this itinerary of iconic Georgia museums.

Atlanta

HIGHLIGHT: World of Coca-Cola

After flying or driving into Atlanta, Georgia’s most populous city, groups can enjoy a fun, interactive museum experience at one of the area's most iconic attractions: World of Coca-Cola. The downtown museum opened in 2007, but its origins can be traced back to 1990 with an Underground Atlanta exhibit dedicated to exploring the brand’s history. Today, the impressive 20-acre complex includes exhibits that pull in all five senses for an immersive, interactive experience. Artifacts include Coca-Cola-related memorabilia from around the world that detail the fizzy beverage’s history, ranging from its days as a medicinal tonic to its worldwide expansion. Group rates are available for groups of more than 25. The experience begins with a short film in the museum theater, followed by a guided tour of its many galleries. Groups can visit a tasting room to sample up to 100 varieties of Coca-Cola products from around the world. They can round out their tour with a visit to the museum’s incredible gift shop.

Opposite page: The World of Coca-Cola Museum in Atlanta takes visitors on a multi-sensory journey through the brand’s history.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE: Atlanta has no shortage of iconic museums, ranging from art and history museums like the High Museum of Art and the Atlanta History Center, to more unique finds, like the Museum of Illusions. To learn more about the Civil Rights Movement, groups can head to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights or the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, which has several historic sites. The Jimmy Carter Presidential Museum and Library is also in Atlanta.

MORE INFO: worldofcoca-cola.com

LaGrange

HIGHLIGHT:

Biblical History Center

About 65 miles southwest of Atlanta, groups will find LaGrange, a small town with a population of about 34,000 and plenty of historic attractions. One of LaGrange’s biggest draws is the Biblical History Center, an archaeological museum dedicated to educating visitors about everyday life during biblical times. The museum, which opened in 2006 as Explorations in Antiquity, features more than 20 replicas of structures found in ancient times, from goat-hair tents to ancient tombs, as well as 250-plus artifacts from biblical times.

Groups can arrange a guided tour of the museum or enjoy a self-guided experience of its many exhibits. In addition to touring the Archaeological Replica Garden, complete with re-creations of ancient villages, farmland and even Roman city streets, groups can participate in even more interactive experiences. A biblical meal production is also offered, where groups will take a tour of the museum then enjoy a traditional meal from biblical times in a first-century setting. They’ll learn about ancient meals and their cultural significance, including practices like Passover.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE:

LaGrange is also home to several historic house museums, including Bellevue mansion and the Hills & Dales Estate. Groups can tour either of these homes and learn about their architecture and historic significance. At Hills & Dales, they’ll also find a beautiful garden worth exploring, and after visiting Bellevue, they can discover all the charms of downtown LaGrange.

MORE INFO : biblicalhistorycenter.com

3

Columbus

HIGHLIGHT: The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center

Less than 50 miles south of LaGrange, groups can make a stop in Columbus to visit The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. The museum, just outside of Fort Benning, opened in 2009 and chronicles the history of the U.S. Army Infantry, from the Revolutionary War to present day. It’s the only museum dedicated specifically to infantrymen. The 155-acre campus contains many indoor and outdoor exhibits, including galleries dedicated to the Revolutionary War, the Cold War and both World Wars. There are also several memorials and monuments honoring fallen infantrymen, including the Vietnam Memorial Plaza and the Global War on Terrorism Memorial, which contains a 13-foot steel beam from the World Trade Center Tower One. Additional attractions include the nation’s largest “Giant Screen Theater,” which shows documentary and blockbuster films.

Groups should be given three hours to explore the museum at their own pace, and itineraries are provided to enhance their self-guided experience. Guided group tours are offered for groups between 10 and 150 and should be arranged in advance. Discounts are offered to groups for the theater and on-site lunches.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE:

The Columbus Museum is another great stop for groups looking for regional history and art. Groups can visit the museum and its gardens, eat at the café and shop for souvenirs. Columbus is also home to the CocaCola Space Science Center, which can create customized group experiences centered around science, space and engineering, from a planetarium show to a simulated space launch. MORE INFO: nationalinfantrymuseum.org

Savannah

HIGHLIGHT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

To round out a Georgia museums itinerary, groups can travel 165 miles southeast to the Atlantic coast and visit Savannah, the “Hostess City of the South.” In Pooler, a Savannah suburb, groups will find the 90,000-square-foot National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, dedicated to exploring the Eighth Air Force, which executed dangerous bombing missions against the Nazis. The museum’s 12,000-plus artifacts feature historic aircraft, including a B-17 Flying Fortress, as well as uniforms, photographs, medals and other memorabilia. Firsthand accounts of missions from former members of the Eighth Air Force can be found throughout the museum.

Macon

HIGHLIGHT : The Big House Museum

Groups will find a hub of Georgia’s music culture in Macon, just over 100 miles east from Columbus. The Big House Museum, also known as The Allman Brothers Band Museum, is a large Tudor-style home where the Allman Brothers Band lived and recorded music from 1970–1973. It was here that the rock band practiced and played as they made waves in Macon’s music scene and found commercial success with hits like “Ramblin’ Man” and “Midnight Rider.”

The home contains plenty of memorabilia from the band, including instruments, clothing, awards and even handwritten lyrics. Some of the rooms are still staged as they were when occupied by the band and their families. Groups can go through the house’s many rooms and exhibits on their own to learn about the band’s music and their legacy. The museum doubles as a venue for special events.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE: If groups want to explore a little more of Macon’s music scene, they can visit the Otis Redding Museum and the Museum at Capricorn, which explores the history and impact of Capricorn Records with studio tours and interactive exhibits about the record label’s discography. Groups can also take a guided walking tour or self-guided tour of the city’s music history, with up to 43 music-related stops.

MORE INFO: thebighousemuseum.com

Group tours can be docent-led or self-guided, and lunch or dinner at the museum’s buffet-style cafe is an available add-on. Tours last approximately two hours and include multiple short films that fully immerse visitors in the sights and sounds of an Eighth Air Force mission and World War II. Outside, groups will also find a memorial garden and a chapel.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE: Savannah has no shortage of museums throughout its historic downtown. Many historic homes, such as the Davenport House Museum and the Andrew Low House Museum, offer tours and include historic furnishings and artifacts. Groups can also visit the Savannah History Museum, which details the city’s history from its founding to its modern-day involvement in the film industry.

MORE INFO: mightyeighth.org

WHERE HISTORY RESTS

Step into a powerful chapter of Georgia’s history. Mulberry Street Cemetery is the final resting place of Confederate soldiers, unmarked graves of the formerly enslaved, and Horace King—an enslaved man who became a renowned engineer and legislator. The site features an interpretive pavilion, peaceful walkways, seating areas, and one of the last five remaining King bridges. Come explore the stories that shaped our future.

MEDITERRANEAN MEMORIES

MALTA BLENDS ANCIENT HISTORY WITH ISLAND SCENERY

BY DIANA BOCCO

The Mediterranean nation of Malta packs more history per square mile than almost anywhere on Earth.

Made up of three islands that, combined, are smaller than many cities, this archipelago is home to prehistoric temples that predate Stonehenge, fortified cities built by medieval knights and some of the clearest diving waters in the world.

From the moment groups step off the plane, Malta reveals layers of civilization that span 7,000 years. Phoenician traders established ports here. Roman emperors built villas. Arab rulers introduced new crops and architecture, and the Knights of St. John transformed the islands into an impregnable fortress. Today’s Malta blends this epic past with modern Mediterranean life — world-class restaurants occupy former palaces, ancient quarries have become swimming pools, and traditional fishing boats share harbors with luxury yachts.

Groups can discover Malta through evening conversations with locals over Maltese wine, in the intricate lacework sold at village markets, and in the way ancient stones glow golden at sunset. From underwater caves and UNESCO sites to island-hopping between hidden coves, Malta rewards travelers with scenes straight from a Mediterranean postcard.

Essential

DESTINATIONS

VALLETTA

Malta’s capital city is a living fortress, built entirely by the Knights of St. John and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Groups can step into the National Museum of Archaeology, explore the Grand Master’s Palace or walk the bastions for stunning harbor views. The city’s grid of narrow streets reveals hidden gardens, traditional balconies and panoramic viewpoints at every turn. Modern Valletta also thrives with wine bars, artisan shops and restaurants serving contemporary Maltese cuisine. Groups can enjoy guided walks through the fortifications by day and experience the cultural scene at night, where traditional folk music mingles with craft cocktails in historic courtyards.

GOZO

Malta’s sister island offers a slower pace and more rural charm, perfect for groups seeking authentic Mediterranean experiences. The island’s centerpiece is the Citadel in Victoria, a medieval fortress overlooking rolling hills dotted with farmhouses and churches. Here, groups can explore the remains of the famous Azure Window rock formation, visit traditional craft workshops in Għarb or relax on Ramla Bay’s golden sands. The island’s culinary scene highlights local goat cheese, honey and sea salt, while traditional villages offer glimpses of island life unchanged for generations. For adventure seekers, Gozo’s dramatic coastlines provide excellent diving sites, and inland trails wind through valleys filled with carob trees and ancient chapels.

MDINA

Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina is Malta’s former capital, where narrow medieval streets wind between noble palaces and baroque churches. Groups can walk the ancient walls, visit the cathedral with its stunning frescoed dome or explore the dungeons that reveal the city’s darker history. The city’s elevated position offers breathtaking views across the island, while its traffic-free streets create an atmosphere of timeless tranquility. Traditional glass-blowing workshops and artisan boutiques line the ancient thoroughfares, and palace courtyards host intimate concerts and cultural events. After sunset, Mdina transforms into a magical cityscape, where lamplight flickers against limestone walls, and the only sounds are distant church bells and footsteps on ancient stones.

Built in the 1570s by the Knights of St. John, St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta is Malta’s spiritual and artistic masterpiece. Behind its plain exterior lies a Baroque interior of gilded stone, frescoed ceilings and marble tombs. Caravaggio’s dramatic “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist” is displayed inside the cathedral.

The megalithic temples of Ggantija on Gozo predate the Egyptian pyramids and represent some of humanity’s earliest monumental architecture. Groups can walk among these ancient stones and ponder the civilization that built them. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ggantija offers insight into Malta’s prehistoric culture and enduring role in Mediterranean history.

Pastizzi, flaky golden pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas, represent the heart of Maltese street food and daily life. Like other Maltese favorites — fresh lampuki fish, hearty minestrone soup and sticky imqaret date pastries — these diamond-shaped delicacies are best enjoyed warm from neighborhood bakeries where recipes have been passed through generations.

Island-hopping by traditional luzzu boats offers groups the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation — discovering hidden swimming spots, exploring sea caves around Comino Island’s Blue Lagoon and stepping ashore at secluded beaches accessible only by water. Groups can chart courses between Malta’s three main islands for diverse landscapes and experiences or venture to uninhabited islets for pristine swimming and snorkeling.

Peaceand Perspective

WATERFRONT RETREAT CENTERS MAKE PERFECT PLACES FOR REFLECTION

BY RACHEL CRICK

Whether they’re enjoying calm waters or making waves, retreatants find faith and friendship on the shores of rivers, lakes and oceans.

Water has always signaled peace, renewal and spirituality. It’s also great for beating summer heat and providing abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, like fishing, boating and paddle boarding. That’s why retreat centers frequently make use of nearby lakes, rivers and oceans as both beautiful backdrops and added amenities.

Here are five waterfront retreat centers across the country that can be enjoyed by church and youth groups of all kinds.

Lake Williamson Christian Center

CARLINVILLE, ILLINOIS

Lake Williamson Christian Center is the largest facility of the Christian Retreats Network, a collection of seven Christian retreat and conference centers across the country. Lake Williamson Christian Center is located in Carlinville, Illinois, which is about halfway between St. Louis and Springfield, Illinois, and about an hour’s drive north of St. Louis. Founded more than 50 years ago, the retreat center caters to groups of adults and children and offers a scenic setting and many amenities in all-inclusive packages.

The retreat center can accommodate groups of up to 1,350 overnight guests. Its lodging consists of motel- and dormitory-style rooms spread across the 400-acre campus. There are 127 motel-style rooms with two full-size beds and a bunk bed. The dorm-style rooms feature bunk beds. All retreat packages include three meals a day, which are served buffetstyle in the lakeside dining room. Retreat packages also include the use of a private meeting room with complimentary A/V.

Lake Williamson is known for its long list of amenities. Recreational facilities included in all retreat packages include an indoor fitness center, basketball, dodgeball, table tennis, volleyball and more. There’s also plenty to do outdoors, like archery, disc golf, football, hiking, mini golf and an obstacle course. Premium amenities can be added to retreats and include an indoor and outdoor pool, as well as Lake Williamson’s beach, where groups can enjoy waterslides, canoeing or boating. Eagle Crest Adventures, which features ropes courses, zip lining, an escape room and axe throwing, can also be added onto a retreat package.

LAKEWILLIAMSON.ORG

Pocono Plateau Camp and Retreat Center CRESCO, PENNSYLVANIA

The beauty of the Pocono Mountains in northeastern Pennsylvania is hard to overstate. Throw in misty mornings, autumn foliage and two serene lakes, and groups will find the stunning 750-acre Pocono Plateau Camp and Retreat Center. The center is open year-round, but it is only available for retreats when it’s not hosting summer camp, roughly from mid-August through late May. Guests can take advantage of the beauty of the mountains in autumn, winter and spring, and the center offers a unique backdrop during each season. With both themed retreats and outside group retreats on offer, groups seeking a religious getaway have plenty of options.

Accommodations at the main site of the retreat include three lodges, a log cabin, a chalet apartment and a gatehouse, totaling 170 beds. The Pocono Plateau Adventure Site has an additional capacity of 96. Meals are served buffet-style in Springer Hall, the dining room overlooking one of the property’s lakes, and menus can be adjusted as needed for retreats. The retreat center offers several spaces for private meetings or worship services, including a hall with space for up to 125.

The center emphasizes enjoying the outdoors and being active, and its activities reflect this. Groups can hike on the property’s seven miles of trails, and guests can fish in the lake or ice skate when temperatures allow. There’s also a nature center, plenty of outdoor games and campfire spots. The Adventure Site, a short distance from the main retreat campus, is open exclusively during the autumn months. Though its cabins feature fewer amenities than the cozy lodges, the Adventure Site is a perfect fit for groups looking to fully immerse themselves in nature for a camp-like experience.

POCONOPLATEAU.ORG

Throw in misty mornings, autumn foliage and two serene lakes, and groups will find the stunning 750-acre Pocono Plateau Camp and Retreat Center.

Campus by the Sea AVALON, CALIFORNIA

Twenty-two miles off the coast of Los Angeles, on Santa Catalina Island, Campus by the Sea is a Christian retreat center that has been providing retreats and camps for nearly 75 years. Retreats for groups from 20 to 200 are offered from March to June and August to November. Groups can take a short ferry ride from the mainland to the retreat center, where they can fully disconnect from the outside world and begin enjoying the island’s beauty. The property is built on land leased from the Catalina Island Conservancy, and it’s a wonderful place to relax, explore the ecosystem and deepen one’s faith.

The camp’s accommodations are modest and consist of enclosed cabins, open-air cabins, tent cabins and a couple speaker cabins for VIPs. There’s also a modern, centrally located bathhouse for retreatants. Meals are served cafeteria-style in a dining hall overlooking the ocean, and most common dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice. Several meeting spaces can be found on the property for large and small gatherings and programs.

Campus by the Sea’s long list of recreational activities is what makes it stand out. Guests can use its impressive waterfront (complete with lifeguards provided by the camp) for activities like fishing, tubing, paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming and even snorkeling. On land, groups can hike or play games like basketball, volleyball and table tennis.

CAMPUSBYTHESEA.ORG

Gulf Shores Beach Retreat

GULF SHORES, ALABAMA

Groups looking to get away to the Gulf of Mexico should look no further than Gulf Shores Beach Retreat. Located in one of the most popular resort towns on the Gulf, this Alabama retreat combines the hospitality of the destination with a family-friendly atmosphere. The retreat center was rebuilt in 2007 following damage and closure from two hurricanes, and it has remained a popular choice for youth and adult groups ever since. Perhaps its best feature is its proximity to the beach; the center is just across the street from its own private beach with a boardwalk leading directly to it.

Part of the retreat’s appeal is the independence it allows each group to experience. It features two identical camps under the same roof, meaning two groups can stay on either side of the property without

Groups can take a short ferry ride from the mainland to the retreat center, where they can fully disconnect from the outside world and begin enjoying the island’s beauty.

having to share many of their common spaces. Each side has four dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds as well as two staff rooms. The property can accommodate up to 160 guests total. Each camp has its own pool with a spacious pool deck, as well as a commercial kitchen where groups can cook their own meals. A volleyball court, basketball court, two charcoal grills and parking are also available on site. There’s also a shared, 1,600-square-foot meeting room for worship or any additional programming that groups can book.

Retreat groups should plan to bring some of their own supplies, such as towels, bedding and toiletries. If groups do not wish to cook their own meals, they can reach out to the retreat for an alternative solution

GULFSHORESBEACHRETREAT.COM

Koronis Ministries Camp and Retreat Center... is a 135-acre campus with a historic retreat center that’s been operational for more than 100 years.

Koronis Ministries Camp and Retreat Center

PAYNESVILLE, MINNESOTA

The Land of 10,000 Lakes is an ideal place to find renewal and spiritual growth. More specifically, groups can find these things at Koronis Ministries Camp and Retreat Center, located on the shores of Lake Koronis in central Minnesota. The retreat center is affiliated with Minnesota’s Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church and features a 135-acre campus with a historic retreat center that’s been operational for more than 100 years. From October to April, the campus can accommodate groups of up to 200, while groups of up to 300 can be accommodated from May to September.

The retreat center offers a variety of lodging options, from hotelstyle lodging at the 19-room Sunrise Inn to dorm-style accommodations at several bunkhouses and lodges, including Camp Koronis, which is ideal for summer camps. There are also cabins and several lakefront cottages with modern amenities like full bathrooms, kitchens and kitchenettes, and decks with views of the lake. Meals are served buffet-style in the dining hall. The retreat center’s multiple meeting spaces can be reserved for worship or other programming for up to 300 guests and come equipped with A/V.

Available activities for groups include archery, hiking, biking, boating, bird watching, campfires, disc golf, swimming, ice skating and tubing. An indoor gymnasium has basketball and volleyball courts as well as a game room that features a pool table, air hockey, table tennis and more.

KORONISMINISTRIES.ORG