Journey Italy

If you want to try out the serenity of a simpler life, then join InterVarsity Study Abroad for a weekend in Italy where you will step back in time in pursuit of a radically different vision for the future.

Imagine this...

From atop this layered village, you can see a patchwork of fields and vineyards, speckled with other medieval cities on hilltops. Perhaps those too have winding streets, gurgling fountains, and surprise staircases shortcutting from one level to the next. But you're grateful you’re in this particular village, because there’s something deeper here than a breathtaking view to give you a new perspective.

As sunset turns the stone buildings a dusty rose and the church bells tell you it’s time to gather for dinner, the invitation to this kind of simplicity has already shifted something in you, and your soul is thirsty to pursue more of the same after you leave this place...

What is possible by the end of Journey Italy?

  • You feel inspired and equipped to make countercultural choices regarding humility and simplicity, because you trust they will lead to greater freedom.
  • You’ve learned spiritual practices and heard stories of Christian role models that make it feel possible to seek a rich inner life with God even in the modern world.
  • Your devotion to Jesus flows from the experience of being profoundly loved by him; loving him back and loving others like he does now feels like freedom and not obligation.
  • Your sense of connection with all created things leads you to join the chorus of creation in worship of God, your Creator.

Why Italy?

  • You’ll linger in Assisi where young Francis gave up his nobility and earthly possessions in order to love the poor and outcast. His radical act of faith inspired a tectonic shift in the mission of the Church 800 years ago, the effects of which are still felt today.
  • You’ll explore how it’s possible to follow Jesus in the midst of wealth, power, and politics like St. Francis, St. Clare, and their monastic communities who lived at the heart of the Christian empire of their time.
  • You’ll touch the cool stone of the caves where the Franciscan brothers would spend 40 days at a time in prayer, and marvel at how the caves feel somehow still warmed by the presence of God’s Spirit that has been welcomed there for centuries.
  • You’ll begin in Rome, the city where Paul was imprisoned and Peter was killed by the Roman Empire for subversively preaching the gospel. Yet, it’s also a city where the church eventually became its own powerful empire. When you travel to Assisi the next day, you will feel the stark contrast to Empire. This contrast will help you consider ways God may call you to take spiritual risks when you return home to confront power structures and opposition there.

FAQ

When is Journey Italy?

March 23-29, 2024

Where is it?

Rome, then Assisi.

When should I arrive?

Arrive in Rome by 6 PM, Oct 28th

How much does it cost to attend?

$1875 for ministry partners (price includes overhead and scholarship money for study abroad students attending Journeys). InterVarsity staff can contact studyabroad@intervarsity.org for a staff only discount code.

What is included?

Journey Italy includes housing, transportation, and meals during the program. Note that transportation to and from the program is not included.

What if I need to cancel?

The deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.

What is housing like?

In Rome, we will be staying at an Airbnb or similar accommodation very close to St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican.

In Assisi, you will be staying in a pilgrimage retreat house, run by the Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement. It is in the heart of the town close to Santa Chiara Church.

Also, know in advance that space is a premium in European cities - everything is smaller: apartments, houses, hotels, and hostels. And, depending on pandemic conditions, these locations are subject to change.

What should I pack?

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Personal toiletries
  • Bible and journal

Which airport should I fly into?

Fly into the Rome airport. You can catch a train to Assisi from the main train station in Rome (Termini Station). Airports in Pisa, Milan, and Florence are also options.

How can I get from the airport to the hostel/starting point?

We recommend you fly into Rome’s main international airport, FCO. There is direct train from the airport to the main Termini in the center of Rome, leaving every 15 minutes. It takes about 30 minutes to arrive at the city center. From there, you can Uber, take a taxi directly to the accommodations (we will let you know that name and address). Or you can save a few bucks and take the Metro or public buses to a drop off close to our accommodations.

Can I stay in Italy longer?

You are welcome to find a flight any time after the program ends, but you are also welcome to stay longer in Italy, either before or after Journey. You will need to book your own hostel for any additional nights.

Where do I register?

registration coming soon


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