Turkey and Greece

September 22 - October 8, 2026

The Rev. Dr. Don Carlson, Co-Host
a LEAD Pauline study pilgrimage for rostered leaders and inquiring disciples

People ask, “After 11 trips, haven’t you found Paul yet?” The truth is that every trip brings newly found insights about the Paul we thought we knew. And another truth is that the real Paul is often lost: clouded by ignorance about Paul’s cultural and religious context, and therefore often misconstrued amid sectarian arguments and “culture wars.”

Contemporary Biblical scholars often list four “Pauls” —

• The Paul of the autograph leƩers: Philemon, 1 Thessalonians, Philippians, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, and Romans.
• The “Paul” of Ephesians, Colossians, and 2 Thessalonians.
• The “Paul” of the pastorals: 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus.
• The “traditional Paul” of Acts.

Lutherans and other churches may also have a “fifth Paul” - the “Reformation Paul” of the 16th century.

But, how did the “real Paul” of the 1st century understand justice, righteousness, salvation, faith, and the gospel as he wrote to diverse urban people living in a culture permeated with religion, patronage, classism, plutocracy, oligarchy, and Roman Imperial Theology? How can his gospel’s 1st century context inform our 21st century context? These are but some of the issues we explore together on every trip.

Participants commit to advance preparation so there will be common ground for discussion.

• Read the essential books on the reading list, and other articles that will be shared electronically.
• Take part in three pre-trip orientation and discussion Zoom meetings in June, July, and August.

So, come along and seek the life and faith of the early church. Come along and search for Paul!

Friends in Christ,
This picture of me was taken during our study of 1st Corinthians while gathered in the forum of ancient Corinth. That evening we sailed for Patmos; then back into Türkiye. Ephesus and many other sites and discussions awaited us. 2026 will be our 12th journey. I increasingly appreciate the observation of N.T. Wright, “For too long we’ve read the scriptures with 19th century eyes and 16th century questions. It’s time we get back to reading with 1st century eyes and 21st century questions.” In many ways, our 21st century is not unlike the 1st century. In no other period of my lifetime could a 1st century understanding of Paul be more relevant: his gospel in the context of empire; his vision of the just world Christ’s return would usher in; his alternative Christ communities negotiating the imperial meantime. Come along on this historical, cultural, and theological immersion. 

Full info at: https://leadconnects.org/in-search-of-paul-2026/

Grace and peace,
Pastor Don Carlson

Tour Host

Rev. Dr. Don Milton Carlson