Apostle Paul and the Earliest Churches: Paul in Asia Minor

Following a brief account of Saint Paul's (née Saul) conversion to Christianity, Apostle Paul and the Earliest Churches: Paul in Asia Minor traces the course of three expeditions the Apostle made, spreading the good news in what is now known as Turkey--in an area characterized by great beauty and quality antiquities, both of which make for a thrilling journey. Orienting viewers with 3-D animated maps, the program visits such renowned places as Antioch, Lystra, Corinth, and Tarsus, with special emphasis placed on Ephesus (probably Turkey's most celebrated archaeological site), where the cameras capture the Temple of Artemis, the Celsus Library, Domitian's Temple, and St. John's tomb. Silent re-enactments help to convey a sense of Paul's travels and teachings, for which he endured much suffering (Paul was stoned, imprisoned, and--finally--tried in Rome and beheaded). DVD extras include Turkish and Arabic language tracks, as well as a study guide in PDF format. A skillful blend of nicely-photographed travelogue and religious history, this is recommended. Aud: P. (J. Reed)