Santa Clara University

One distinctive way in which the Jesuit School of Theology engages in the contextual study of theology as well as in ministerial formation is through January Intersession immersions. These experiences are simultaneously intercultural and theological in content, and typically involve travel abroad. All incoming Master of Divinity candidates are required to participate in the January immersion during their first year. During each Intersession, an immersion elective is also offered.

The immersions are administered by the Coordinator of Cross Cultural Initiatives in the Academic Dean's Office. All immersions involve an extensive preparation process

 

First Year Master of Divinity Immersion - Required

Each January, first-year, Master of Divinity candidates participate in an immersion to Mexico City for approximately two weeks, in collaboration with the Jesuit Universidad Iberoamericana. Many incoming students have wide cross-cultural experience. The goal and organizing principle of this experience is the ongoing development of intercultural competence and theological reflection within the particular group context of the first year cohort. Students live together in a Catholic Retreat House, accompanied by two Jesuit School of Theology faculty and staff members and one student leader. The experience includes weekend insertions in the capital and countryside with church ministries and community leaders, classes taught by local faculty from a Latin perspective, group theological reflection, prayer and celebration of the Eucharist, and exposure to Mexican culture and history.

 

Interreligious Dialogue Immersion - Elective

This immersion is presently scheduled around a three-year, repeating cycle. Because local circumstances change in the countries visited, the schedule is of necessity flexible. Check with the Program Coordinator for the latest information. Any Jesuit School of Theology student may apply for this elective, and the acceptance process is selective. This immersion is typically of approximately three weeks in duration.

January 2009  –Nepal, Buddhism

January 2009  – India, Hinduism

January 2010  – Northern India, Hinduism and Buddhism

January 2011  – Indonesia, Islam

 
 

 

Read articles about past immersion experiences:

• Bridge Magazine, Spring 2008
  Professor Thomas Cattoi reports on the 2008 immersion trip to Indonesia where the group engaged in interreligious dialogue and study with Muslim partners.