In May, a group of students, alumni, faculty, and staff from Mid-America Christian University (MACU) traveled to England to explore the historical roots of the Wesleyan tradition and the lives of Christian leaders whose influence continues to shape believers today.
What began as an educational travel experience quickly became something much deeper. Throughout the journey, participants visited sites connected to John and Charles Wesley, explored the rich history of England, and walked in places associated with influential Christian thinkers such as C.S. Lewis. Along the way, history, faith, and learning came together in meaningful and unforgettable ways.
Exploring Our Wesleyan Heritage
One of the most impactful aspects of the trip was the opportunity to engage firsthand with the history that helped shape MACU’s identity.
In London and Bristol, travelers visited significant locations connected to John and Charles Wesley, including Wesley’s Chapel, The New Room, and other sites central to the birth and growth of the Methodist movement. Walking the same streets where the Wesley brothers lived, ministered, and experienced pivotal moments in their faith journeys brought new perspective to a tradition many students encounter in the classroom.
For a University whose mission is to prepare students through a Wesleyan perspective, these experiences offered more than historical knowledge. They provided a deeper understanding of the values that continue to influence MACU today: spiritual growth, lifelong learning, service to others, and a faith that actively engages the world.
Participants were reminded that John Wesley believed faith should extend beyond personal belief and inspire meaningful action. His commitment to education, discipleship, and serving society remains foundational to the way MACU prepares students for the glory of God and the good of others.
Faith, Learning, and Discovery
The journey also provided opportunities to experience some of England’s most significant cultural and historical landmarks. From Westminster Abbey and Windsor Castle to the city of Bath and the world-renowned University of Oxford, travelers encountered centuries of history while gaining a broader understanding of the cultural context that shaped many influential Christian leaders.
A highlight for many was visiting Oxford, where participants explored locations connected to C.S. Lewis and the Inklings. Standing in the places where Lewis studied, taught, and developed ideas that would impact generations of Christians offered a unique perspective on the relationship between faith, scholarship, and imagination.
These experiences reinforced that learning extends far beyond the classroom. History became tangible, faith became more personal, and the connection between academic knowledge and spiritual formation became increasingly clear.
More Than a Trip
Another meaningful aspect of the journey was the community formed along the way. Shared experiences, conversations, and moments of reflection created lasting connections among students, alumni, faculty, and staff.
As the group returned home, they carried more than memories of England’s historic landmarks. They returned with a deeper appreciation for MACU’s Wesleyan perspective, a richer understanding of the Christian faith, and a renewed commitment to living out that faith in their communities and around the world.