• Newsletter Find out what makes us special!
• Latest Regular Information for travelers
• EJournals Pilgrim Journeys Memories
• Director & Ministry Director Info and Ministry
• Concept Dive into Ministry to Tourism
• All Inclusive Crystal Cruises Luxury Services
• FAQ! All you want to know about MtoT

• News Letter

  November Newsletter #28. download

  I am pleased to offer you an Advanced Notice of my Jubilee special 2013 Pilgrim Journey to Biblical Lands------ Lands & Sea of Jesus, St Peter & St. Paul—Oct. 14-Nov. 9, 2013. Preliminary details, including the Holy Land segment, are below and attached or visit www.pilgrimjourneys.ca

  Prospective pilgrims want or should want to make this a “once in a life time” travel investment of their time and resources. In my experience over the years I know that once this decision is made, people do not want to compromise on the program and its quality.

  Join this festive “Jubilee Pilgrim Journey” during this Year of Faith. In leading his 22nd pilgrim journey to Biblical lands and around ancient seas, Fr. Kleiter is highlighting his two favorite destinations and experiences in world travel. It is around ancient seas and lands that Divine Providence revealed for Jews, Christians and Muslims the sacred mysteries in this “Cradle of Civilizations.” The journey begins where the early church began its outreach in Asia Minor (today’s Turkey), Greece and the city of Christian Martyrs: Rome. With the varied enrichment choices offered aboard the world-class Crystal Serenity cruise ship, Gisele Bauche will provide insights, making this pre-Holy Land experience ideal for deep inspiration, community building and enjoyment. Then actually visit the Holy Land, where Jesus walked around the Dead Sea, the Sea of Galilee and up to Jerusalem. Your life will never be the same! Start planning today. Invest wisely in memories for a life-time!

  November Newsletter #28. download

  August Newsletter #27. download

  June Newsletter #26. download

  May Newsletter #25. download

  April News Letter #24. download

• Latest News

  Lands & Seas of Jesus, St. Peter & St. Paul

  Follow their Footsteps in 2013 Oct.14- Nov. 9 or Oct. 25-Nov.9 Celebrating with Fr. Ralph Kleiter, Director of Ministry to Tourism, Diocese of Saskatoon

  “50 Golden Years of Ministry” to Parishes & Travel Pilgrims Your Pilgrim Journey to Biblical Lands will be Enriched by Gisele Bauche, Special Guest Facilitator Former Director of the Catholic Pastoral Centre and Queen’s House of Retreats, Diocese of Saskatoon Having also completed studies in Jerusalem, she now facilitates workshops and retreats on Scripture, Spirituality and Sacred Art. Join this festive “Jubilee Pilgrim Journey” during this Year of Faith.

  In leading his 22nd Pilgrim Journey to Biblical Lands and Around Ancient Seas Fr. Kleiter is highlighting his two favorite destinations and experiences in world travel! It is around Ancient Seas & Lands that Divine Providence deemed to reveal for Jews, Christians and Muslims the Sacred Mysteries in this “Cradle of Civilizations”.

  You will begin as the early church began its outreach in Asia Minor (today’s Turkey), Greece and the city of Christian Martyrs----Rome.

  With the varied enrichment choices offered aboard the world class Crystal Serenity Gisele Bauche will further enhance your insights making this Pre-Holy Land experience ideal for deep inspiration, community building and enjoyment. And then, actually visiting the Holy Land, where Jesus walked around the Dead Sea, the Sea of Galilee and up to Jerusalem. Your life will never be the same!

  Start planning today .Invest wisely in memories for a life-time!
  By BOOKING NOW you will be able to take advantage of many financial savings.

  TO ROME IN OCTOBER 2012 TO CELEBRATE
  VATICAN II 50TH ANNIVERSARY
  & CANONIZATIONS

  Christians of a certain age along with people around the world will remember the excitement that came with the visionary reign of Blessed John XXIII and especially with the opening of the Second Vatican Council Oct. 11, 1962,

  Even those who have no memory of this historic event realize that the church on the local and universal levels has been enriched because of this Council----the liturgical renewal, scriptural awareness, ecumenical stance and our call to be truly “People of God”---to mention only a few riches enabled by this Council. We need to celebrate with a renewed commitment the challenges Blessed John XXIII and the Fathers of the Council offered us fifty years ago.

  Personally, in my almost fifty years of ministry, I have been privileged to belong in this era. I have been approached and encouraged to enable this celebration with the universal church by designing a Pilgrim Journey to Italy, Oct. 9-23, 2012. I need to know immediately if you are interested in joining us.

  Please accept this invitation to stand in the light of this great council, “the greatest religious event of the twentieth century” (Bl. John Paul II). We will follow in the footsteps of Blessed John XXIII as Benedict XVI begins this celebration with the opening of a “Year of Faith”. We will begin in Rome Oct. 11, 2012 with the 50th Anniversary celebrations, visit Angelo Roncalli’s (John XXIII) humble beginnings in northern Italy---Scotto il Monte, Bergamo, Venice, Padua, Ravenna, Assisi etc----and culminate our Pilgrim Journey in joining the church, especially with our First Nations people in Canada, at the Oct. 21st canonizations. Blessed Kateri Tekawitha, first North American Indian to be so recognized, and Blessed Marianne Cope, close associate of St.Damien, Priest & Leper from Molokai (Hawaii), will be proclaimed Saints of the Church.

  I estimate the all inclusive cost per person sharing to be in the $3600.00-$4000.00 bracket for an exclusive two week program, Oct. 9-23, 2012. At this very late date, I need to know if you are interested. If at least a small group of 10-15 persons are prepared to make a commitment by Monday, May 28th I will immediately begin the process.
  Blessings,
  Ralph Kleiter

  ALERT!

  Comprehensive Holy Land Pilgrim Journey (Nov. 5-24, 2012) The presentation last Sunday of my 21st Holy Land program resulted in an overwhelming response. Only a few seats remain! The post Holy Land Option to Portugal (including Fatima) is also popular. Act today! Details: www.pilgrimjourneys.ca

  Just Announced! New Lower Limited-time Fares on remaining 2012 Crystal Cruises.
  Book an all-inclusive journey on Crystal Cruises (Serenity) by April 30 if you wish to “join the Chaplain’s table” and receive:
  Book Now Cruise-Only Fares from just US$2,620 All inclusive fares includes…..
  *Gratuities for bar, dining and housekeeping staff
  *Complimentary specialty dining, fine wines, champagne, premium spirits, beer and non-alcoholic
  beverages including bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees
  *Up to $400 shipboard creditfor every new-to-Crystal guest you bring on board
  *$1,000 per person additional Penthouse deck savings. Optional Air Add-Ons

  WHERE TO IN 2012?

  -Canary Islands Cruise, Nov.28-Dec.9, Lisbon to Barcelona from $3295.00

  -Atlantic Explorer, Dec. 9-21, Barcelona to Miami from $2620.00

  -Christmas Caribbean Cruise, Dec. 21-Jan.4/13, Miami Return Details: www.crystalcruises.com

  **Special fares & benefits when including the Trans Atlantic Passage ( only Crystal Serenity makes it an exceptional joy). There is simply no better time to experience the award-winning luxury and value of the World’s Best. Book your cruise before fares increase!

  PLANNING TO TRAVEL IN 2013? Let me know your preferred land and/or sea destinations. I will try to include them in my 2013 Programs.Rev. Ralph Kleiter, Ministry to Tourism 306-244-3747 kleiter@shaw.ca

  By Popular Demand

  Fr. Ralph Kleiter, Ministry to Tourism, has announced his 21st Pilgrim Journey to Biblical Lands for November, 2012.
  Those seriously interested in this exclusively designed (not off the rack) Pilgrim Journey to the Holy Land (including Jordan, Galilee, Jerusalem and Mt. Sinai areas) followed by an optional Portugal, Fatima and Canary Island cruise are invited to an informational meeting on Sunday, April 15 , 2:30 PM at St. Paul’s Co-Cathedral Meeting Room.
  Registration will follow shortly thereafter for the small group and no other extensive promotion is envisioned. Please call Lois at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre at 306-659-5837 to confirm your attendance.
  “Don’t delay in planning to experience Biblical Lands .The only regret will be…why did I wait so long?”

  Diocesan Delegation heads for Dublin

  The 50th International Eucharistic Congress will be held in Dublin, Ireland, June 10-17, 2012 with the theme “The Eucharist-Communion with Christ & with one another”. The Saskatoon Diocesan official delegation will be led by Bishop Don Bolen along with Fr. Ralph Kleiter, Ministry to Tourism.

  The general theme of the Congress will be explored each day with a special focus on some aspect of the theme. Each day will offer “teaching” moments (Catechesis) usually presented by a bishop. Words of encouragement and inspiration from a lay-person with a story of faith will follow. Wonderful celebrations of the Eucharist will also highlight each day’s theme and its challenges. Ample opportunities for meeting the universal church and cultural events have been worked into the week by the Irish hosts.

  After the Congress Week most of the twelve member Saskatoon delegation will continue to discover the “Emerald Isle”. It is hoped that there will also be opportunities during the Congress Week for independent travelers to Dublin from the diocese to meet with the Saskatoon delegation.

• Electronic Journals

  Easter Wishes from the Orient

  May you have a happy Easter all through the 50 Days to Pentecost
  May you feel assured in your faith that our Lord has risen as he said he would
  May your every day be glad with the expectation of your own glory to come
  And may you experience the inner peace of those who transmit this marvelous

  Easter Joy!

  Along with these Easter wishes I am adding a Reflection on Eastern Spirituality as I have observed it in the last few months. Everywhere in the Orient one finds that the family, especially the elder members, are held in great respect. Even deceased members are often given a certain presence in their home shrines. There are little and large shrines everywhere in the midst of the city’s life. It appears that people have faith and express this by making offerings or burning incense to the deities while some traditions observe regular prayer times.

  The faces of the people everywhere radiate smiles and respect. Tolerance seems to be stressed in the midst of such multi-faith traditions that they have lived with for centuries. Furthermore , these spiritual values seemed to surface in most of the local Guides as they shared the life in their homeland with us.

  In short, Eastern Spirituality is not only profound but far from disappearing in SE Asia regardless of the current impact of Western high tech and secular values. We in the West need to re-examine the richness of our Judaic-Christian roots. Had the Church listened to the early Jesuit missionaries of the 17th century and adapted Christian expression of faith the Church would have a greater presence here today.

  A Blessed Easter!
  Ralph

  2013 eJournals:

  Ejournal III Easter
  Ejournal II South East Asia
  Ejournal I Australia
  

  2012 eJournals:
  Ejournal X Christmas
  Ejournal IX
  Ejournal VIII
  Ejournal VII
  Ejournal I Dublin 2012 (Congress Report and Pictures)
  

  2011 eJournals:
  Ejournal VI
  Ejournal V
  Ejournal IV
  Ejournal III
  Ejournal II
  Ejournal I

• Ministry & Director

  Director: Who is Ralph Kleiter?

  You obviously have some interest in travel, since you have come to this web site. I enjoy preparing for travel and traveling, and I try to do this as part of my special ministry.

  On July 1, 1999, Bishop James Weisgerber of Saskatoon Diocese appointed me to the "Ministry to Tourism." I have been involved in parish ministry for over 30 years, and I was in the tourism industry before my ordination. I have continued to have a keen interest in the phenomenon of leisure-tourism. I have been involved in specialized travel for over thirty years. Through this time, my major goal has been to help travelers "discover the Sacred in reflective travel."

  The Pontifical Council of the Holy See is encouraging more and more dioceses to establish concrete pastoral or spiritual care for travelers. This is not to be limited to tourists being received, but in helping tourists become more enriched and responsible in their travels. I believe that the Church needs to have a presence, and to dialogue with all those who work with tourists (e.g. travel and hospitality industries.) The Ministry to Tourism is meant to be a response to the initiatives coming forth from Rome in recent years.

  I am convinced that good travel design, whether by land, air or sea should reflect our journey through life. This is not unlike a good retreat experience. People can experience in a good travel journey, "a pivotal moment in their spiritual life."

  There is an upsurge in the retreat movement and various types of spirituality. Tourism, especially in a Christian perspective, must have a holistic approach that sees the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.

  Ministry to Tourism
  Director: Rev. Ralph Kleiter
  Telephone: (306) 244-3747
  Fax: (306) 374-1208
  E-Mail: kleiter@shaw.ca

  Ministry

  What Makes Our Tours Different From Other Tours?
  - Our New Voyages Enrichment Program -
  (Ministry to Tourism's Special Contribution)
  A special feature of "Pilgrim Journeys" is Ministry to Tourism\'s Enrichment Program known as "New Voyages."

  Ministry to Tourism offers the valued feature of a special theme curriculum during a travel experience. In fact, as soon as you are registered, you will begin to receive printed materials to help you prepare for your travel experience.

  Ministry to Tourism offers:
  Orientation sessions before, during and after major site visits. Special theme celebrations, liturgical and otherwise, for participants regardless of religious backgrounds.
  Helpful "tools" and materials to assist participants to integrate the experience.
  Services of special presentations by guest facilitator(s).
  Exclusively designed special interest excursions at a minimum cost.
  Although many vacation packages offer exceptional value, our facilitator(s) accent this experience with a reflection focus that will prove to be even more alluring, meaningful and engaging.
  

  As we enter the third millennium, and a period of paradigm shifts, it is hoped that participants will experience a spiritual and physical integration towards wholeness in the midst of the travel experience giving hope and peace we all desire.

  If you still have unanswered questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
  Contacting us is simple. No problem. Just . . . (kleiter@shaw.ca)

• Ministry to Tourism Concept

  Father Ralph L. Kleiter (of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, Canada) has been involved in parish ministry for over 30 years. and was in the tourism industry before his ordination. He continues to exhibit a keen interest in the phenomenon of leisure-tourism and has kept in touch with this contemporary reality as a pastor through study and the designing and directing of special travel programs from his home province of Saskatchewan and Canada to local and around the world destinations.
  During two sabbatical year opportunities in Europe --- London, Paris and Rome --- and at the Jesuit School of Applied Theology in Berkeley, California he has pursued his interest in the pastoral implications of tourism on the Church, whether it receives or exports significant numbers to tourists.
  Specifically, he has been able to develop several tools which enables travelers to make their travel experiences more than a cruise or bus tour more than simply an escape to the sun more than a "Retreat at Sea", and even more than a pilgrimage.
  A Ministry to Tourism strives to make a travel experience truly a "discovering of the Sacred in reflective travel".

  Reflections on a new ministry/pastoral for the Church
  NOTE: These are bookmarks which will take you to the various reflections.
  Please join us in reflecting for a moment, then you can return to this site:

  Introductory Reflections Ministry to Tourism

  We have all been tourists or visitors at one time or other. Sometimes the hospitality we experienced in a particular place --- even in a Christian Cathedral or historic sight -- stood out in our memory for the wrong reasons. We left that place wondering whether the message of the Christian and/or Hebrew scriptures was ever heard there.
  As Church people we know that such encounters as these can prove to be the first steps in the birth and development of faith life. No wonder the church\'s new Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) underscores the importance of hospitality and care of the inquirer. Aware of this central element in sharing the "Good News" to all people, a ministry to tourism which attempts to reflect basic human values contained in the Gospel message can become a "new vehicle for the manifestation and proclamation of this message." (Declaration on Tourism, Basilica of s. Vitale, Ravenna, 13th October 1990).
  It is in this light that time and again Pope John Paul II has shown the value that the Church attaches to the pastoral of tourism. In speaking to the 2nd World Congress on the Pastoral Care of Tourism (Nov.10,1979) the Pope emphasized that this growing phenomenon is becoming "a significant moment in the life of our contemporaries which needs a specific evangelization".
  Over recent years we have observed and experienced travel to be as Paul VI described it as "the social event" of the century. Even small provinces in Canada with minimal tourist attractions find large populations on the move during various seasons. This reality should move us to reflect and question whether the Church in Canada and elsewhere could not be more ready to address this "epoch-making mass phenomenon" (John Paul II, Sept. 1,1979).

  Need Identified by the Holy See Ministry to Tourism

  Shortly after the second Vatican Council the Holy See established several offices to address contemporary pastoral concerns such as tourism. Recently the Constitution Pastor Bonus (March 1989) raised the Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migration & of Tourism to the status of a fully-fledged Council. It seems clear that people at this Pontifical Council in Rome are quite aware of the infancy status and pioneering nature that this pastoral field currently demands. Archbishop G. Cheli at the Council in addressing the IV World Congress for Pastoral Care of Tourism (Rome, November 1990) said:
  "Even today, it is still not easy to see tourism as a sector in human life calling for sustained attention. 'A misunderstood industry, a service to be developed' was the theme of this year's world tourism day, but we could just as correctly talk about \'a misunderstood pastoral field, a service to be developed'"
  In 1969 the Holy See published a General Directory for the Pastoral Ministry in the field of Tourism. It has already proven helpful in the countries where tourism is being seriously addressed. Not only does it outline the values and concerns of tourism, but it stresses that responsibility for it lies with the entire community of the faithful.
  "The evangelization of this 'social event of the century' is the duty of the whole People of God, both clergy and laity, each according to his or her specific competence, and should be a manifestation of the new horizons of charity and of concern for the new form and structure of the Christian community towards whose dynamic activation, expansion and transformation tourism contributes".
  The second section of this document focuses at some length on the various pastoral practices tourism might invite us to undertake.

  Need Recognized in More Faith Communities

  In many Canadian parishes and faith communities today, especially during the long weekend or holiday seasons, people of all ages are conspicuous by their absence from their Sunday liturgy and worship. Where are they? More often than ever, they are gone to a lake resort, skiing, or visiting friends and relatives in another region of the country. In some areas and during inclimate seasons the "exodus to the South" is particularly evident in church life. Even if they remain in their locale, people are drawn to the nearest "people place" for leisure activities (e.g. shopping malls or sports centres etc.) If this is true among the active church people, we can well imagine how true it is for those who are less committed.

  In addition, the increasing demands for good communications and education means that people from most sectors of society are frequently on the move attending conventions, conferences etc. in and outside the different regions of our land. The hotel and transport industries can easily attest to this fact.

  In all these cases, are we attempting to help parish congregations face and adapt a pastoral care program that is responsive to these recently established realities in our country?

  It is clear from the above and from the many statements on the subject issued by modern- day popes from Pius XII to John Paul II that the pastoral care of tourists and those involved in the tourism industry deserve a new and continuing impulse. Recently, as reflected by nearly two hundred delegates from various countries attending a World Congress in Rome (Nov. 1990), more and more countries are indeed attempting to respond seriously to these invitations from the Holy See, and the World Council of Churches.

  The Challenge to Move with this New Ministry into The Third Millennium

  During the European Year of Tourism 1990, a declaration on tourism was published by Church leaders and they invited us "to take note of the urgent need to instill in tourism the human values embodied in the spirit of the Gospel."

  People today spend so much time and energy in order to get away on a weekend, day off or a vacation. A central challenge of an effective ministry to leisure-tourism is to educate people to approach this dimension of life in a more enriching way. Those who serve tourists, whether within church or industry setting, need to help people integrate the physical and spiritual into a wholeness whereby their leisure pursuits satisfy what is really a spiritual need. In our society we recognize serious situations of deprivation. A ministry to leisure-tourism, however, faces a huge challenge of educating a growing population in this regard reflecting the approach which Jesus Christ Himself took when he frequently sought a "lonely place."

  Furthermore, for some countries it would seem that an appropriate use of tourism within their country might be a timely way to help them work toward a unity that sometimes seems to be lacking between the various cultures, provinces and/or regions. At the same time, tourism is an area where inter-faith and inter-church cooperation may well further the reign of God.

  We also know that in developed countries we can expect an increase in the age of people. Studies indicate that by 2020 as much as nineteen per cent of the population will be 65 years of age or older. Today, generally around ten percent of the population is 65 years of age or older. It should be noted that it is retired people who are primarily available for travel because they generally have more time and resources to be directed through the enrichment of travel.

  The new millennium is upon us! Many celebrations took place during year 2000, (e.g. Expositions, Olympics) as well as several Christian observances, (e.g. Jubilee Year 2000, Oberammergau Passion Play, pilgrimages to the Holy Land, etc.). The Ministry to Tourism served well for the movement of people during year 2000.

  Pope John Paul II is of course aware that this tourism reality affects people of all ages, and young people are no exception. That is why he has requested the local churches, "to collaborate more among themselves in order to reach all these tourist migrants, and invest more, in terms of personnel and practical means, in a sector which affects modern man, and the young particular." General Directory p.41 Finally, it would seem that in today's Church we are more aware of our call to evangelize and/or re-evangelize, to be really hospitable "heralds" of the Good News. True hospitality is the first essential step in any form of pastoral practice. For this reason the General Directory exhorts us to consider the pastoral care of tourism to be "a component of the ordinary and essential pastoral care of the diocese" (N.18). In a concerted and intentional way we have to get rid of any negative aspects tourism may have and work together so that tourism, like every human reality, may be redeemed and sanctified.

  A fully developed Ministry to Tourism would enable the Church to:

  Facilitate parishes in tourist areas to more fully and creatively develop their ministry.
  Address the needs of travelers at International airports, religious sights and events, resorts and theme/nature parks.
  Influence and dialogue within tourism industry and other bodies in so far as the tourism affects social justice, ecological issues and general pastoral concerns.
  Be a vehicle to promote values as directed by the Vatican's Pontifical Council for Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant Peoples (Tourism section).
  Promote associations of Christian/Catholic persons in the tourism industry.
  Offer models for meaningful group travel for elderly, youth etc., and to qualify visits to sacred places and events.
  Promote an appropriate influence and presence of the Church's ministry on cruise ships regularly visiting our ports.
  Establish a network of support and sharing with those involved in the actual ministry to tourists.
  Organize educational opportunities for tourism - e.g. workshops, conferences, etc.
  Assist, in co-operation with Liturgy Committees, the development of good and meaningful liturgical celebrations in tourist areas.
  © Fr. Ralph (Ministry to Tourism)

• All Inclusive

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  Fine Dining
  Complimentary fine wines, champagne and premium spirits as well as dining in all restaurants, including specialty venues Prego by Piero Selvaggio, and Silk Road and The Sushi Bar by Nobu Matsuhisa • Open-bar service throughout the ship • Gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff throughout the ship • All non-alcoholic beverages including bottled water, specialty coffee drinks, soft drinks, fresh juices and Afternoon Tea service • Acclaimed Crystal Wine & Food Festival® cruises featuring famous chefs and wine authorities on select voyages • Early embarkation luncheon • Welcome champagne • 24-hour room service

  Enrichment & Entertainment
  • Yamaha Passport to Music® keyboard lessons • Berlitz foreign language classes • Computer University@Sea® classes with software instruction • Technology Concierge "how to" tips on latest high-tech gadgets and apps • Experiences of Discovery® theme cruises with focused programming on music, fashion, wellness, golf and more • Crystal Visions® lecture series featuring renowned speakers, authors, celebrities and destination experts • Award-winning Broadway-style entertainment, piano bars and dance clubs • Recent-release films in spacious surround-sound Hollywood Theatre • Dance lessons • Art classes with Odyssey Art At Sea • Dedicated Junior Cruiser facilities and programs • Comfortable shuttles to town • Concierge services for personal arrangements ashore

  Fitness
  • Gym with state-of-the art fitness equipment • Well-appointed separate men’s and women’s steam, saunas and whirlpools in the only Feng Shui-inspired spa at sea • Fitness classes including yoga, Pilates Reformer, “Tour de Spin” cycling, cutting-edge Kinesis™ systems and Tai Chi courses • Golf lessons with PGA pros • Walk-on-Water weighted vests and Nordic Pole walking equipment • Paddle tennis • Exclusive 360° (wraparound) teak Promenade Deck for uninterrupted walks, jogs and sweeping ocean views • Ambassador Hosts, cultured and well-traveled gentlemen, are available on every cruise to socialize and dance the night away

  Stateroom Services & Amenities
  In-stateroom satellite TV and movie/DVD rentalsTwice daily housekeeping with nightly turndown servicKimonos, Frette bathrobes, 100% Egyptian cotton linens and pillow menuSelf-service launderettes

• FAQ: Ministry to Tourism

  What is a New Voyages Enrichment Program?

  It's a design that offers you a travel experience on a carefully selected ship or any other means of travel. It offers you 'lenses' to experience your vacation in a different way. Your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual dimensions will be enriched. This travel design is an opportunity to discover the Sacred in reflective travel.

  "We had time to consider the theme...." "The theme of leisure focused our attention on the attitude and approach to life that would enhance our ability to bring balance and integration to all our experiences." Alaska Cruise Participant, 1993

  Why bother with such a unique experience?

  Today, Christianity is undergoing a major renewal of spirituality. It can affect the way you experience the Sacred in your life; the way you relate to your God; the way you might pray. You need opportunities like New Voyages to help you heighten this awareness. And when you participate in this unique travel design you do so with your whole being. Each part of you needs to be addressed.

  " I truly enjoyed the cruise. It was a real enlightenment to God's creation." Alaska Cruise Participant, 1993

  Is New Voyages a type of retreat?

  In one sense it is. But this kind of retreat does not allow you to withdraw from the world and one another. Rather you withdraw with new or old friends in order to "grow through leisure". It is intended to help you experience the Sacred or God in another way; to romance the human and the divine within you, to approach life--including your leisure-tourism-- more reflectively . It is a kind of retreat which strives to introduce you anew to the presence of God in creation, in the places visited, in the very savouring of the decor of your "place of retreat"---the cruise ship, or location chosen. It is not a type of retreat conducive to processing deep spiritual issues requiring individual spiritual direction or therapy. Another place of retreat might better serve this purpose. Nor is it a type of retreat which is geared to profound conversion experiences although some will encounter the Sacred in a special way while on tour or at sea.

  "Its focus on 'leisure: a spiritual need', was a unique opportunity to experience the best of a retreat and the best of a cruise." Alaska Cruise Participant, 1993

  What do you do during a New Voyages enrichment program?

  You enjoy the whole travel experience with its stops and activities as an integral part of the design. This is supported by regular theme 'focus sessions'. A pre-cruise package for New Voyages orientation and cruise information is also offered. Regular worship and prayer, discussions and reflection time are suggested , so that your daily experience can be integrated into your life. Some may seek time to be alone by walking, or simply being in the presence of the day's sun or the night's stars. It is your time. Most importantly, it is a time for ministry to self.

  "The 'focus sessions' time make an excellent use of travel time." Alaska Cruise Participant, 1993

  Does New Voyages reflect some kind of a new spirituality ?

  Most churches today emphasize the sacredness of everyday life. Everybody is called to wholeness. All of creation is seen as sacred , not opposed to the secular. Contemporary spirituality strives to integrate the human and spiritual into everyday life. A New Voyages experience reflects a spirituality which stresses the inter-connectedness of your body, mind and spirit.

  "It sharpened our awareness that all of life is God directed and challenged us to celebrate this reality in gratitude and joy". Alaska Cruise Participant, 1993

  Who should book a New Voyages experience?

  It is for people who enjoy land tours. It is for people who love the experience of being at sea aboard a fine ship. It is for people reluctant to board a ship; and yet are interested in this kind of experience. It is for people who enjoy being with persons of all ages, interests and religious backgrounds. It is for people who have decided they want something more than just the "great escape" to a beach resort or the "fleeting fun" of a party cruise. It is for people who want to disembark from their cruise holiday, or end their tour as a renewed person--in body, mind and spirit. It is for you !

  "Our diverse group enjoyed the focus....knowing that our approach to life will never be quite the same. The quality of this "retreat" certainly calls for a follow-up and many of us will return." Alaska Cruise Participant, 1993

  Do you have to be a strong church person to join New Voyages ?

  No. You simply need to be thirsting for a growth or rediscovery of the sacred in your life. People from any mainline Christian background have no difficulty relating to the special thematic "focus sessions". Besides the input, there are optional ecumenical worship services, regular Roman Catholic Eucharist and appropriate creative rituals and celebrations to mark highlights during New Voyages.

  "This experience is more meaningful for me now". Alaska Cruise Participant, 1993

  Do you have to be "rich" to be part of New Voyages?

  Definitely not. Most people today want to be more purposeful in their travel ventures. Often instead of making things a priority, special kinds of travel becomes for them an investment. Participants often indicate that they live quite modestly, even sometimes in spite of their resources, so that they can invest in enriching travel opportunities where value may be realized from their limited hard- earned dollars. By investing in New Voyages they soon discover very good value , since it allows for both a holiday plus a type of retreat . Any perception that New Voyages is only for the "rich" is unfounded.

  "Our spirit life must also be nurished with authentic leisure if we are going to have a healthy approach to life and discipleship." Dr. Leonard Doohan, author of: "Leisure: A Spiritual need"

• Ministry to Tourism

• Fr. Ralph Kleiter
  314-619 Saskatchewan Cres. W

  Saskatoon SK S7M 0A5

• +1.306-244-3747
• kleiter+shaw.ca
• 

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