Dear family and friends,

Geneva was an amazing beginning to our Global adventure! We learned how to navigate a foreign environment, started getting to know each other, and laid the groundwork for the cross-cultural perspective we will gain over the course of the semester. We had an introductory tour of the city upon our arrival and spent our free time in the afternoon figuring out the bus system and walking along Lac Leman in downtown Geneva.

The following morning many of us attended the tricentennial celebration of the German Lutheran Church. It is a multi-cultural congregation and it was incredible to share in their worship service. The program was in both German and English and during prayers, all of the members spoke at once in their native tongues. "Building bridges" was the theme of the service. It perfectly related to our study of religious pluralism and the importance of embracing other cultures and religions to better comprehend our own values and beliefs. The congregation left the church, making a bridge with our arms to extend the message out into the world.

We explored Geneva and the surrounding area for the next several days. Most of us crossed the border into France and rode gondolas up Mt. Saleve. Some courageous students tried para gliding! The next day, a few took an extended trip to Mt. Blanc while the rest of us went to the Red Cross Museum, relaxed in the city's famous rose garden, enjoyed swimming and paddle-boating in the lake. We also picnicked frequently on bread, cheese, and Swiss chocolate!

The following days were spent in briefings at the United Nations. We had special presentations from UNAIDS, OCHA (Emergency Response and Relief), UNDP (Crisis Prevention and Recovery Bureau), UNHCR (High Commission for Refugees), OHCHR (Human Rights), and UNICEF. In addition, we met with representatives from the World Council of Churches, the Lutheran World Federation, and the senior pastor of the German Lutheran Church. It was impossible not to be affected by the powerful seeds of change in Geneva.

Despite the pessimistic attitude of some people that these organizations aren't making enough impact to really change and solve the world's innumerable problems, we find that idealism is necessary to promote change. When there is no attempt to make the world a better place, change truly is impossible.

We'll take all of these lessons with us as we continue our travels. Our navigational skills are sure to improve, our friendships will deepen, and our world view will be constantly challenged and changed.

Love,
Global '07