Ninth Grade Explores Places of Worship in World Religions Study

On Friday, February 7, Moravian Academy’s ninth-grade students embarked on an immersive journey to three religious worship spaces as part of their World Religions unit in History. This hands-on experience provided a deeper understanding of diverse faith traditions through firsthand observation and engagement with religious leaders and communities.

The day began at the Hindu Temple Society, where students met with a resident Hindu priest who introduced them to the ritual of aarti, a prayer with fire. Beyond the Hindu sanctum, students explored other sacred spaces within the temple dedicated to Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism—faiths that, like Hinduism, trace their origins to India. The visit concluded with warm hospitality from the temple community, who generously shared samosas and ice cream.

Next, students traveled to two mosques to witness the Islamic tradition of Friday midday prayer. They observed prayer spaces filled with community members who had paused their work and studies to participate in this important weekly practice. One group had the rare opportunity to view a 150-year-old handwritten Quran from Sierra Leone, a treasured family heirloom passed down through generations.

The final stops of the day were St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral and Congregation Brith Sholom. At the cathedral, students marveled at the intricate paintings that adorned the ceiling and walls, reflecting centuries of tradition and devotion. At the synagogue, they were especially moved by a powerful Holocaust remembrance display, deepening their understanding of Jewish history and resilience.

By Monday, class discussions were rich with reflections, as students compared and contrasted their experiences, drawing connections between different faith traditions. This meaningful journey reinforced Moravian Academy’s commitment to fostering curiosity, empathy, and global awareness—values that extend far beyond the classroom.