Middle East
Summer 2025
This six-week summer seminar will introduce students to the history, culture, religion, and politics of the Middle East, particularly the situation in Palestine-Israel. Students will be exposed to a variety of perspectives and engage in conversations over the complexities of the region, particularly in ways that challenge simplistic representations of the Middle East and its relationship to the West.
We will explore how various and competing narratives and experiences shape and challenge our understandings of the present-day situation in the region. We will engage in cultural, social, ecological, and political reflection, considering the histories of Western imperialism and colonialism and how that has impacted the situation and the United States’ role in the region, as well as the experiences and efforts of local communities who are working for a just peace and sustainable futures. We will also engage in theological reflection, walk in the footsteps of Jesus, considering the histories of anti-Judaism and Christian Zionism in the Church and how that has impacted the situation and the Church’s role in the region.
Students will attend 4 weeks of intensive Arabic language class. Other engagement will come through a weekly service assignment in local schools and organizations, as well as guest speakers, local events, and travel to key historical, religious, and cultural sites.
Seminar Leaders
Timothy Seidel, Peacebuilding, Development, and Global Studies &
Anna Johnson, Notre Dame Peace Studies & Sociology
About the leaders: We have extensive experience, research, and relationships in the region, including living and working in Palestine-Israel. For the past twenty years, Tim has been organizing and leading learning delegations to Palestine-Israel, most recently co-leading an EMU group to the Middle East in summer 2023. Anna has nearly six years of experience working with Palestinian and international humanitarian and development organizations in Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Both Tim and Anna are members of the Mennonite Action steering committee.
Location
Palestine - Israel
Approximate Dates
May 8 – June 21, 2025
Estimated Cost
$7,200 - includes Travel, Tuition, Meals and Lodging
Courses
Immunizations
The following immunizations are required for travel to the Middle East based on the EMU intercultural travel locations.
- Routine – MMR, DPT series with last booster within 10 years, IPV or OPV, Hep B, and Hepatitis A as required for EMU enrollment.
- Influenza and Covid-19 annually, or as recommended. In an effort to maximize the safety of our hosts and our students, EMU Intercultural Programs requires all employees and students who plan to travel for intercultural immersion to have completed their vaccination regimen for COVID-19 more than 14 days prior to travel.
- Typhoid - Recommended for travelers in the West Bank.
Immunizations and prescriptions may be obtained at EMU Health Services by appointment.
Immunizations may also be obtained from your local health department or primary care
provider.
