This summer, Lifeway Women and Lysa TerKeurst, along with some 700 attendees, departed from Rome, Italy, on a nine-night cruise of Italy, Greece, and Turkey. This was the largest and longest cruise Lifeway Women has hosted since the pandemic.
The cruise stopped in several significant biblical locations that the apostle Paul lived in or journeyed through including Rome, Athens, Crete, and Ephesus. Others stops included Mykonos and Santorini, Greece. The group sailed with Royal Caribbean Cruises on the state-of-the-art Odyssey of the Seas.
During the nine days, Lysa encouraged the group with messages on forgiveness and healing, as well as discussed the biblical aspects of boundaries. Many were impacted by her messages of finding renewed hope after loss and leaning on the faithfulness of God to meet them in their times of greatest need. Lifeway Women also partnered with Lifeway Global for the first time on an event. Dr. Miguel Núñez taught on the importance of understanding Revelation and end times theology.
Theologian Dr. Joel Muddamalle, of Proverbs 31 Ministries, added biblical and cultural context to some of the places and archeological sites the group visited. One highlight was learning about the ancient city of Ephesus where Paul lived and preached during his ministry and then getting to tour the area in person.
Charlotte-based songwriter, Mack Brock led worship. Mack’s powerful voice and heart for God made for intimate times of worship for the group on board. Meredith Brock, CEO of Proverbs 31 ministries, a dear friend of Lysa’s and wife of Mack, brought energy, depth, and fun to the stage as the group’s emcee and hostess.
Many women came by themselves and made lifelong friends on the trip. Others made the trip with sisters, friends, and family. Celia Thorington, from, Wetumpka, Alabama, shared, “
It was a great way to cruise. It was encouraging and uplifting. I met several people during my excursions who were also a part of the Lifeway cruise. It was fun connecting with them and hearing their stories.
Many attendees came to hear from and be refreshed by the Lord after experiencing difficult losses or seasons. “God met me there in the middle of the ocean and showed me that He is good and trustworthy,” said Julie Woodman of Hastings, Minnesota. “The fellowship with other Christians and being able to worship together was amazing. And the teachings spoke to my heart and soul. They added immensely to the beauty of the cruise itself.”
The cruise provided a retreat-like environment across the week for people to connect with God and each other. The stunning ancient places, with gorgeous sunsets and vast still waters, were an incredible backdrop for inspiration and transformation for those who traveled with us. Lifeway Women will cruise again and will release the 2026 cruise schedule in 2025.
ABOUT PAIGE CLAYTON GREENE
Paige Clayton is the author relations specialist for Lifeway Women and also leads their destination events. She led the women’s events team for Lifeway for fourteen years and recently shifted roles so she can spend less time traveling and more time pursuing licensure as a professional counselor. She is currently a master’s level professional counselor at Lantern Lane Farm in Mt. Juliet, TN. In her spare time, she is a fun aunt to four young adult nieces. Paige is mom to her Instagram-posing dog Ruby and loves singing, being outdoors, and spending time with her friends and family.
