Israel & Other Journeys

Christians have been taking pilgrimages to the Holy Land for thousands of years and the desire to “walk where Jesus walked” is as strong today as ever. For decades, groups from the Houston's First family have traveled to Israel and other biblical locations to see the Bible come to life where it all took place.

Pastor Gregg Matte went to Israel with long-time church members Jim and Wanda Jean Hickey in 2008. He was so touched by that experience that he encouraged more frequent trips hosted by the Hickeys and a designated staff member so that Houston's First family members would have opportunities to go. Those trips continued, and even after Jim passed away in 2011, his beloved wife Wanda Jean continued hosting trips until she joined him in heaven in 2018.

Now, these trips are hosted primarily by church members Peggy Bain and Drew Walters and a staff member guest host. Other ministries sometimes take trips specifically targeted at the ages or stages of life they serve, hosted by their respective staff members.

While we are deeply saddened by the ongoing conflict in Israel, we look toward the day when we can return to Israel with groups from Houston’s First. Watch here and in other church communication channels for opportunities for you to see stories of the Bible come to life.

[ Looking for our list of Mission trips? You can find those here! ]