Faith, Spirituality, and Religion Abroad

Things to Consider Before Going Abroad

• The Quaker tradition urges us to recognize the presence of "that of God" in every person. This encourages us not only to seek our own truths but also to approach others' truths with empathy and curiosity. As students of a global world, we seek to understand through a multifaith lens an appreciative knowledge of the religious traditions that shape and form people all over the world.

• The commitment to religious diversity and freedom varies between countries. It is important to research the religious backgrounds and commitments within each community, nation, and/or country you plan to visit. 

• Immersing yourself in a community with a different major religion from your own can profoundly deepen your spiritual understanding. Connecting with a local religious group not only enriches your cultural experience but also offers valuable support during your time abroad. Embrace vulnerability and uncertainty as you navigate new religious or spiritual landscapes. Engaging with diverse practices and beliefs can challenge your assumptions, broaden your perspectives, and provide an opportunity to articulate and often translate your own beliefs in fresh contexts.

• Approach new experiences with openness and respect, recognizing that your personal growth is often fueled by stepping outside your comfort zone. Building relationships can offer invaluable insights and foster a greater appreciation for diverse ways of understanding and experiencing the world.

• During your time away, seek out individuals and communities to connect with to explore diverse religious experiences that may resonate with your own commitments, practices, and community. Engaging in intervisitation—visiting and learning from people of the same faith but from different backgrounds and contexts—can be highly valuable.

• If you're uncertain about whom to connect with, consider finding a nearby Quaker meeting where you're traveling. The Quaker tradition spans globally, and students often find welcoming Quaker communities eager to engage with Guilford College students. You can explore available communities using the FWCC Global Quaker Map.

Resources for Understanding Various Religious Traditions

For students seeking specific religious or spiritual communities while abroad, the following resources may be particularly useful:

• US Department of State: Faith-Based Travelers
• Diversity Abroad: Religious Diversity Abroad
• Pew Research: Global Religious Futures Project
• Entering Sacred Spaces: Houses of Worship
• Religious and Spiritual Groups Abroad