We live in an age where information flows easily through digital screens, yet the appeal of travel remains strong. While we may receive information and images from any corner of the world in the comfort of our homes, there is something profoundly inspiring about physically stepping into a place. As Christians, our travels can be more than just sightseeing; they can be spiritual experiences that connect us with our faith, broaden our perspective, and deepen our understanding of God’s work in the world.
Virtual tours and documentaries provide glimpses, but the experiences of standing on the cobblestone streets of Florence, looking up at the magnificent dome of the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, or witnessing the power of Michelangelo’s David at the Academy Gallery are irreplaceable. Traveling allows us to see the world through a different lens, appreciate the beauty of creation, and interact with people and places in ways that virtual experiences do not allow.
Leaving the comforts of home opens our eyes to how the Spirit of God works beyond our daily routines. We witness his presence in the people interacting in a market square or the bells ringing from a centuries-old cathedral. Even the kindness of a stranger who offers directions when we’re lost or the patience of shopkeepers, when we attempt a few words in their native language, reminds us that our daily living experiences only provide a small view of God’s work in the world. Our faith becomes more tangible and valuable as we recognize God operating through our experiences in a new place.
The First Church Chancel Choir has taken several trips to Europe. With each trip, we take the opportunity to gather for morning devotions in preparation for seeing incredible works of art from a Christian perspective. Imagine waking up in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and gathering with fellow travelers for devotions. We discuss Masaccio’s Holy Trinity, a masterpiece illustrating incredible theological awareness by depicting the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Another day, we consider Caravaggio’s Sacrifice of Isaac before we visit the Uffizi Gallery. His use of light, contrasted with darkness, illustrates the tension and meaning of sacrifice. The art becomes a gateway to theological discussions, connecting Scripture and theological depth to Caravaggio’s brushstrokes.
In Paris, a morning devotion examined Veronese’s Wedding at Cana at the Louvre, prompting reflections on Jesus’ first miracle and how the allure of our culture can distract us from encountering Christ. Those intentional moments prepared us for more profound encounters with the artworks we saw later. We found incredible meaning in Jacob’s Ladder on Bath Abbey’s façade—a reminder of a divine connection between heaven and earth. At Westminster Abbey in London, the Modern Martyrs sculpture reminded us of the faithfulness and sacrifice of our brothers and sisters worldwide. These encounters merge Scripture, theology, and history, filling our journeys with profound meaning. Our travels are enriched when we explore art, history, and landmarks through a Christian lens.
Guidebooks provide practical information, yet local tour guides offer unique perspectives. We often found ourselves in fascinating conversations with our guides when we asked questions about faith in relation to art and landmarks. Sometimes, we were privileged to hear their personal stories, connecting us to their faith and the local community. Our morning devotions prepared us for God-ordained opportunities to exchange ideas and experiences about our faith.
As you travel, I encourage you to seek out Christian sites intentionally. Visit ancient cathedrals and sacred landmarks. Pray where saints of the past once walked, sing hymns in historic churches, and appreciate the deep faith of those in the past, which is evident in large and small cathedrals. These encounters deepen our understanding of God’s work in the world and remind us that our faith is part of a remarkable, centuries-long story that connects us with Christians of the past, present, and future. Travel isn’t just about crossing off destinations; it’s an opportunity to encounter more of God’s creation, connect with fellow believers past and present, and allow God to grow our faith with each encounter and experience.
by Jeff Faux, Director of Sacred Arts
Book Recommendations
75 Masterpieces Every Christian Should Know: The Fascinating Stories Behind Great Works of Art, Literature, Music and Film
by Terry Glaspey
The Christian’s Travel Journal for Italy
by Mario Mammina
Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith
by Russ Ramsey and Makoto Fujimura
