On May 26, 2009 Pastor Paul boarded a plane in Atlanta GA to travel to Israel. This was his first trip to the Holy Land. He was very excited to have the opportunity to be included in a group of pastors from around the country who received full scholarships granted by the Cousin Foundation through the McAfee School of Theology (Mercer University) in Atlanta. The 16 day trip covered Jerusalem, Galilee, towns in the West Bank. This trip was more than a tourist adventure, but rather a spiritual journey that engaged participants in times of group and private devotions and reflections each day.