Possible Weekend Trips and Excursions*
During the program we will have the opportunity not just to familiarize ourselves with Damascus but also to explore the many diverse cities and historic monuments of Syria. The cost of these weekend trips (travel and accomodations) are included in the overall cost of the program.
Here are a few of the trips we will take during the program:
1) South of Syria
including Izraat, Bosra city, Kanwat Cathedral, the National Museum in Sweida city. Possible group volunteer project in Sweida over one weekend.
2) Palmyra and Middle of Syria
visiting Homs city, Christian Valley, Crack Des Chevalier, St. George Monastery.
3) Aleppo, Hama and Hassake
Hama City, Apamea, St. Simon citadel, Aleppo city, overnight in Aleppo, Al-Hassake, visiting the Bishopric of the Syrian Orthodox Church, overnight in Al-Hassake.
4) Latakia and Tartous
swimming in Mediterranean sea, overnight in Latakia. Visiting Augarit city, Kassab and Soulonfe resorts.
5) Saydnaya & Mallula Towns and all monasteries existing in that area.
6) Mar Moussa Monastery
Gues Speakers*
Throughout the program we invite a number of guest speakers to address the group on various topics of interest. Some of these topics will include:
1) The Diverse Cultures of Syria
2) Syria's Tourist Treasures
3) Christian and Muslim Relations in Syria
4) Syria's Economic Reforms
5) Political and Social Challenges Facing Syria Today
6) Youth Contributions Towards Peace, Tolerance and Cultural Dialogue
7) Present Challenges within the East-West Dialogue
8) The Role of Religion in Overcoming Violence
9) Visiting Social and Diaconal Activities in Syria
10) Middle East Council of Churches Activities in Syria
Meetings and Discussion Groups*
During the program participants will have the opportunity to meet with a diverse range of religious and cultural groups in order to learn more about Syrian life, faith and culture. Some of these meetings will include:
1) Meetings with nonprofit and humanitarian organizations in Syria.
2) Meetings with different Christian youth groups of various denominations and backgrounds (orthodox, evangelical, catholic).
3) Meetings with Muslim students.
4) Meetings with Iraqi refugees.
5) Meetings with the Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Islamic Foundation.
We will also possibly meet with:
1) The Grand Mufti of the Republic
2) The Minster of Tourism, Information and Expatriates
3) The U.S. Ambassador
4) Organizations such as the Red Crescent, Association for Women's Development, Massar, Aghkan Khan, Al Safini, UNCR, etc.
* Please note that all weekend trips, meetings and guest speakers are subject to cancellation or change. Additionally, the above does not represent a comprehensive list. Additional trips and meetings will likely be added.
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