Eastern Mennonite University

Spring 2008

Guatemala and US/Mexico Border

Deanna Durham and Byron Peachey

One of the most heated issues in the U.S. – and the Shenandoah Valley – is the debate surrounding policies and attitudes towards immigrants, undocumented workers, and the crossing of national borders. Many of these immigrants come from Mexico and Central America. This cross-cultural group will explore these issues by spending several days at the Mexico/U.S. border and continuing to Guatemala to study language, culture, history and religious faith of Guatemalan society.


Middle East

Linford and Janet Stutzman

There is no place on earth that compares to the Middle East for experiencing the fascinating and volatile mix of religions, cultures and historical movements that have shaped the world. Beginning in Egypt, wandering through the Sinai and Jordan, living in Israel and the West Bank, and traveling to Greece and Rome, participants will be immersed in the ancient/modern world of Jews, Christians and Muslims. Living in Palestinian homes, working on an Israeli kibbutz and at the Nazareth Village, exploring ancient histories and current conflicts, will provide an intense learning experience with the potential for life-changing insights into the Bible, world news, and yourself.


Washington Community Scholars' Center


This study-service program fulfills the EMU cross-cultural requirement, provides an internship in a student's area of interest or study, allows course work at local universities, and includes inter-disciplinary seminars. The study group of 10-12 students lives together in a house in Washington, D.C. Contact the Undergraduate Dean's Office if you are interested in visiting the program.