My dad has always said that religion is like a language; we all interpret the words in many different ways, but the point of the teachings remains the same.
I have heard of students who have decided to not attend the PCC Mexico Trip because they feel as if it is intrusive on their beliefs or contradictory to their views on religion. However, if these students understood the message of the trip, they would be capable of setting aside their discomfort and embracing the trip’s broader themes. I believe that the charitable outcome outweighs the religious emphasis.
Participating in weekly youth services at the church is mandatory for the students on the trip during the weeks leading up to Spring Break, which involve religious references and a prayer at the end of every meeting. Although attending church services may or may not be a part of students’ lives outside of the Mexico trip, throughout the process the students are able to share with the Church a goal of outreach to people in need.
Students spend their Spring Break building a house for a family that desperately needs one, while immersing themselves in a new culture and creating bonds with other students. Although many may not agree with the religious beliefs of the church that the trip is led by, it does not take away from their experience.
Students sign up to participate with a common objective of giving back to those less fortunate. Even though some students may be uncomfortable in times of prayer, when the end goal is achieved, the purpose of the trip may be worth setting aside feelings of discomfort.
The Leadership of Piedmont Community Church approaches their prayers and religious references mindful of the fact that students of all faiths (or no faith) participate in the trip. With this in mind, the topics of prayers that students hear rarely stray from greater themes of humanity and wisdom that can be relevant to students regardless of faith.
I understand that, throughout history, religion has been a source of many conflicts. It is understandable for students to want to stay away from something that has caused so many problems in our world, especially if students are of different faith or do not have one at all. However, the Piedmont Church is aware of this and leads prayers in a way where students are able to relate themes to their everyday lives, the lessons and morals applicable to all beliefs.
If religion is a language, the Mexico trip translates in a way that unites students to harmoniously build a house. The goal is to leave a lasting and beneficial impact on the world; words are just words, but concrete and wood is a home.
