Reformation and Catholic Switzerland

Civic Innovation, History and Spirituality in the Alps

Switzerland is often overlooked when religious and academic groups seek to explore the heritage of institutions and thought that developed during the Reformation of the 16th century. As the crossroads of Europe, Switzerland was the place where many different strands of thought about reforming Christianity and civic institutions were experimented with, giving birth to a rich culture that continues to flourish on political, economic, religious and artistic levels. Visitors to Switzerland are able to gain a better appreciation for the context of the Reformation in central Europe, consider its various nuances, appreciate the political and religious institutions that developed from it, and see how this tiny but magnificently beautiful country celebrates a plurality of languages, preserves rich local customs in diverse alpine regions, and is committed to fostering an ecumenical religious spirit between Reformation and Catholic faith communities.

Program Synopsis

Deepen knowledge of the 16th century

Travel to towns where great thinkers of the Reformation were active not only in calling for reform of the Church but also seeking to create civic institutions and practices that would foster cities with moral fiber and democratic participation. Explore the role that different towns played in the unfolding of events in the 16th century - such as Geneva, Basel, Firbourg, Zurich and Luzern. Learn how the Reformation encouraged a more vibrant and flourishing Catholic community in various parts of Switzerland.

Nurture faith and spirituality

The Swiss are a devout people who have forged a unique spirituality over the centuries. Explore differences in religious architecture, worship and devotion between Reformation and Catholic Switzerland. Experience local customs that preserve spiritual practices originating from medieval times and carried on through the present. Visit quiet sanctuaries and ancient monasteries in alpine valleys where people continue to pray and worship.

Broaden horizons

The Swiss are proud of their four official languages, diverse local customs and practices, unique industries, and religious ecumenism. You will be surprised by this diversity and the work the Swiss do to embrace and sustain it culturally and politically. This program will invite participants to explore models for sustaining healthy multi-cultural, multi-lingual and multi-religious communities.

Suggested program visits

Illume customizes programs around the objectives of your group. However, a suggested outline for exploring Catholic and Reformation Switzerland might begin with 4 nights in Zurich (with day excursions to Basel, Augst, and Luzern). The program in Zurich would focus on the work of Zwingli and Catholic Counter Reformation efforts in Luzern. Zurich has a beautiful Old City that preserves much of the feel of 16th century Switzerland. Luzern has a beautiful medieval town center and boasts several major Catholic institutions as well as many local Catholic customs. A visit to nearby Mt. Pilatus could be incorporated as well. The program would then continue with a journey to Bern and Fribourg (overnight in Fribourg) focusing on the Swiss federation in Bern (and its beautiful gallery of medieval shops and boutiques) and the Catholic cultural center and university in Fribourg. The program would conclude with 3 nights in Geneva focusing on the work of Calvin and Knox and visiting sites in and around the Cathedral of St. Peter, the new International Museum of the Reformation, and the World Council of Churches.

Extensions could be developed for visits to Srasbourg, Lyon, and Avignon or to Lausanne, St-Maurice, Sion and the French-Swiss Alps.

Reformation programs can be developed that combine sites in Germany with visits to Zurich and Geneva.