Pilgrimage of the Church Fathers

Exploring the Legacy of the Early Church and the Council of Nicaea
Join us on a journey to the heart of early Christianity in Istanbul, a city rich with history and pivotal moments in the development of the Church.
This pilgrimage will take us to key sites that played a central role in the establishment of Christian doctrine, including the site of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. It was here that bishops from across the Christian world gathered to address crucial theological debates, including the nature of Christ and the formulation of the Nicene Creed, a foundation of Christian faith still recited today.
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In Istanbul, we will visit the Hagia Sophia, once the grand cathedral of Constantinople, which became a symbol of the Church's authority and its theological debates.
We’ll also explore other key sites tied to the early Church Councils that shaped Christian belief, offering us the opportunity to reflect on the unity and challenges of the early Christian communities.​





Key Features
EPHESUS
See where the First Council of Ephesus took place in 431 and walk in St Paul's footsteps.​
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NICAEA
Journey to Iznik (modern day Nicaea) and vist the area of the underwater basilica where the First Council of Nicaea was most likely held 4th July 325.​
HAGIA SOPHIA, ISTANBUL​
Visit the Hagia Sophia where the Second Council met from 5th May to 2nd June 553.​​​​​​​

​HAGIA IRENE
Visit Hagia Irene museum on the site where the First Council of Constantinople met from May to July 381.​
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DAILY MASS
This pilgrimgae offers daily mass for your group.​
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What does Jane say...
"A truly unique journey, this pilgrimage to Nicaea takes you to the site of the First Council, where key doctrines of the early Church were established, offering a profound connection to the foundations of Christian faith and history. If you enjoy a more educational tour, this one is not to be missed."
For more information call us on 01886 812862
Availability in
2026/27
Reasons to book with JC Journeys





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