Cross-Cultural Immersion
Our students get a rare opportunity to live within another culture.
Twice each year, MTSO groups depart for faculty-led cross-cultural immersion trips of roughly two weeks. Recent destinations include South Africa, Cuba, India, Israel/Palestine and Korea.
This experience, which is available to all students and a requirement for those seeking a Master of Divinity degree, is not a mission trip. It’s an opportunity to truly experience, rather than attempt to impact, a culture different from one’s own.
Student perspectives
Emily Howard looks back on her trip the Desert Southwest.
Anthony Thomas offers a theological reflection on his trip to Korea.
Abigail Salak reflects on her trip to Israel/Palestine.
Deborah Caulk reflects on her trip to India.
Cross-Cultural Immersion Handbook
What makes MTSO's cross-cultural immersion program unique?
Upcoming cross-cultural trips (details subject to change)
January Term 2023
Chiapas, Mexico (MASJ and M.Div. students) - Dr. Tim Van Meter and Dr. Kate Common
Summer Term 2023
Israel and Palestine (M.Div. students) - Dr. Yvonne Zimmerman and Dr. Kate Common
January Term 2024
South Africa (M.Div. students) - Dr. Elaine Nogueira-Godsey
Summer Term 2024
Nicaragua (M.Div. students) - Dr. Yvonne Zimmerman
January Term 2025
Chiapas, Mexico (MASJ and M.Div. students) - Dr. Tim Van Meter