Day 07 - Pergamum Asclepion, Smyrna, Aegean Sunset Cruise

After experiencing some of the most sacred sites of the ancient world, Pastor Josh finally got to experience a cup of Starbucks in Soma. With tears in his eyes, he lifted his precious cup of Java to the group so we could all witness his treasure.

We began the morning, as we have each day, with the Sh'ma and a devotional. We closed in prayer for a new day of fellowship and experiencing Turkey together. From our hotel we drove to Pergamum.

We entered Pergamum on Ataturk Boulevard. The street was lined stall after stall - selling everything from rugs to tractors. We received a history lesson about Ataturk, the father of modern Turkey and how he both saved Turkey and founded their modern republic.

Our first stop was Via Tecta that led to the ancient location where people from all over would come to be healed. The motto was "No One Dies Here." At the theater they only had comedy plays making this perhaps the first comedy club. This was also the second most important healing center in the Roman world. The temple was devoted to Asclepius - the god of healing. Pastor Josh then presented a devotional on trust in God and the power of prayer - especially related to healing.

A highlight of our trip was visiting a Turkish rug school. We were educated about the art of making Turkish rugs from some of the local women. We were shown the fascinating process of how they dyed the wool made silk thread. We were all given the opportunity to try our hand at making the knots that are used in Turkish Rugs. We were then shown all the beautiful rugs that were available for purchase.  

Our next stop was Smyrna. The ruins of Smyrna are within the very modern city of Izmir. It is thought that the city may be named after the sweet smelling spice myrrh. The city was traditionally founded by an Amazon Queen. We walked among the amazing Agora, which was originally a two or three-story complex.

The early Christian martyr Polycarp was the Bishop of Smyrna and a disciple of the Apostle John. Polycarp was martyred here at the age of 86. When he was given the choice of renouncing his faith or being burned alive, his response was "Eighty and six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong. How can I then blaspheme my King and Savior." 

We left Smyrna and headed to the coast where we were in store for a big treat. We all boarded a boat for a sunset Aegean cruise. As we left the harbor we were able to relax and enjoy the beautiful deep blue water and cool breeze. A few of us had the opportunity to have a "Titanic Moment" at the bow of the ship. We went back to the harbor, boarded our bus, and headed to the hotel. Our arrival at the hotel came with a beautiful sunset over the Aegean... a truly wonderful day!    

Logan Doak