The purpose of this assignment is to enable you to visit a new and unfamiliar religious-cultural setting and to learn in an experiential way about the beliefs and rituals of another tradition. You may choose among many houses of worship: Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, etc. Attending a Christian service or the service of the particular religious tradition in which you were raised is prohibited (this means you should not visit any Christian denomination nor a place of worship you are familiar with; the purpose of this assignment is to step outside the box and learn about another tradition).
Write a 3-4 page paper, double-spaced, 12 point font, which includes the following information:
• The place, time, date, and a physical description of the place.
• Description of the ritual you experience: words, actions, people, symbols, songs, etc.
• What are the demographics? Who make up the congregation?
• Describe any relevant encounters you had with the worshippers. How were you treated?
• What are the similarities and differences between this experience and what you experienced growing up?
• Reflect on your experience as an onlooker? What did you learn? What surprised you? What questions are you left with?
Elaborate on any other aspect of the experience that left an impression on you.