Exploring the Heritage of the Presbyterians


Presbyterians in the USA trace their heritage to immigrants from Europe - particularly from Ireland, Scotland and England. They trace their theological roots to the ministry and work of John Knox, 16th century reformer associated with John Calvin in Geneva. Travel to places of great historical and religious significance is a powerful way for modern Presbyterians to gain a better understanding of the unique values of their faith and to learn about the historical context of visionary men and women who reformed the Church. Travel to places of Presbyterian heritage inspires participants to become more active in advancing the mission of the Presbyterian Church and to share that heritage with future generations.

Program Objectives

Walk in the footsteps of Calvin, Knox and other Reformers

Travel to Switzerland, England and Scotland. Make Church history come to life as participants discover the life and times of these visionary people of faith and explore the innovative institutions and practices they forged through the Reformation.

Discover spiritual resources and roots

Presbyterians from the British Isles inherited not only the vision of Knox and other Reformers but also resources going back to early English spiritual leaders. Some of these have Celtic roots; others are influenced by missionaries from Roman Christianity. Explore historic spiritual centers throughout Ireland, Scotland and England that continue to inform and nurture faith.

Discover cultural treasures

Travel to places of rich historical and cultural significance is deeply transformative and satisfying. Learn about the cultural treasures of Scotish, Irish and English lands. Enjoy beautifully preserved medieval towns and enchanting landscape where deep faith and passion for mission and service gave birth to proud, courageous and generous Presbyterians.

Create unique ecumenical programs

Combine visits to sites explicitly associated with Presbyterian history and activities that allow for exploration of Anglican and Roman Catholic traditions. These ecumenical programs allow participants to better understand their own distinctiveness as well as appreciate others' perspectives and traditions.

Suggested Venues


Explore Reformation Heritage in Switzerland

Calvin, Knox, Zwingli and others transformed cities such as Geneva and Zurich into models of Christian discipleship and civic responsibility. The Swiss continue to live these values. Travel here provides opportunities for exploring both 16th century sites and city centers as well as early Christian sites (particularly in Geneva). Combine historical travel with outdoor activities such as hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.

Explore English Spirituality in England and Scotland

Visit sites associated with Knox and other Reformers in England and Scotland. Combine these visits with travel to historic monasteries dating back to Celtic Christian times - including sites associated with Iona, Lindisfarne, Wales and Cornwall.

Travel to Reformation Sites in France and Holland

Trace the history of Reformation communities in France (the Huguenots) and Holland. See how the vision and values of Reformers took on different cultural patterns in these parts of Europe.