Today was a big day in Social Studies — we had our first two visits to houses of worship in the area! First we visited a Hindu temple and then a local mosque. The students were very curious and asked lots of questions.

Tofu-San might be the first Japanese plush toy to visit a holy place! First, he went to the Hindu temple. 

Tofu-San and the students were very interested in the statues of Gods on the alter. They learned that Hindu people believe in many Gods and Demi-Gods that are part of a single divine power. Some students requested to try making a wish by pouring water over one of the statues, and our hosts allowed them to try it.

Next up, Tofu-San got to visit an Islamic Mosque.

The imam (the leader, like a priest, minister, or rabbi) explained that Muslims have a very different view of how to show God. They only recognize one God, called Allah in Arabic, but they don’t have statues of him.

The students were able to see that there are many different ways to show what is sacred to a person. They asked lots of questions here too!

On Thursday, we will visit three more houses of worship — a Christian church, a Jewish temple, and a Buddhist center. We are all excited!

We know that there are an infinite number of ways to show what is sacred. Last week in class, students got a chance to share what is “sacred” to them. In fact, some of them volunteered to share what is sacred to them in a photograph or video.

What is sacred to you? Join our exploration by sharing your experience of the “sacred” in the comments section. Also, check here to read about part two of this exciting two day field trip.