A Key Piece to Our Curriculum
A unique part of the Grace Core is the cross-cultural field experience (CCFE).
Go Encounter trips are just one way to meet the CCFE requirement. Throughout the year, students go on 7-14 day trips led by Grace staff & faculty to step into a new culture, develop new perspectives, and be transformed.
Important Dates
September 17th: Registration open to all 2024-2025 grads
September 23rd: Registration open to all students
November 5th: Deadline to register for Spring Break Trips
November 26th: Deadline to register for Summer Trips
Note: Some trips have unfortunately been cancelled due to low enrollment: Albania, Central Europe, Chile, Curacao, Scotland, Toronto, and Zambia.
Apply Now!
Spring 2025
Summer 2025
Apply Now!
Announcements Coming Spring 2025
December 2025
Go Encounter
Spring Break 2025
Australia
Leaders: Brittany & Gershom Tadesse
Dates: March 7-17, 2025
Estimated Price: $4,500
WAITLIST ONLY
Welcome to Australia, mate! If you want to experience adventure, baby koalas, amazing barbecue, and gorgeous landscapes, then this trip is for you! Join Britt and Gersh on a trip that includes snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, stargazing under the Australian skies, cooking authentic food at an interactive class, meeting baby animals, and even throwing boomerangs. We're doing it all on this unforgettable trip down under!
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Leaders: Rucel (Rusty) Martinez & Dr. Rick Roberts
Dates: March 7-14, 2025
Estimated Price: $1,860
WAITLIST ONLY
This trip will focus on integrating service and ministry with culture and adventure! From serving with local churches to surfing and cliff jumping, students will experience the life of a local Mexican family. Other trip experiences include downtown market shopping, eating local cuisine, meeting local youth, arches boat tour, nature hiking, visiting beaches, attending a church service, and evening worship sessions. Students will leave with a greater understanding and appreciation of local Mexican culture as well as a stronger personal faith.
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Greece
Leaders: Dr. Trent & Angie Lambert
Dates: March 7-16, 2025
Estimated Price: $4,040
WAITLIST ONLY
Embark on a transformative journey through Greece, from the iconic streets of Athens and the ancient ruins of Corinth to the lively pulse of Thessaloniki. Walk in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul as you explore the very regions where he lived and preached during the early days of Christianity. This immersive experience offers a unique blend of historical exploration and spiritual reflection, revealing the profound impact of Paul's teachings on the foundation of Christianity.
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
India
Leaders: Jaci & Tobe Forshtay
Dates: March 7-17, 2025
Estimated Price: $3,185
WAITLIST ONLY
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to India! Journey through the vibrant cities of Agra, Delhi, and Mussoorie, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indian culture and history. We’ll begin in Agra, where you'll marvel at the breathtaking Taj Mahal and explore the majestic Agra Fort. In Delhi, we’ll wander through the bustling bazaars and markets, visit the iconic Red Fort, and experience the serene beauty of the Lotus Temple and Jama Masjid. We’ll explore ancient step wells and gain a deeper understanding of India's architectural marvels.Then we’ll head to the serene foothills of the Himalayas, where we’ll visit a local children’s ministry and engage with the community. We’ll take in the stunning views from Gun Hill and savor the flavors of India with a hands-on cooking class. This adventure offers a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal trip for those seeking an enriching and exhilarating experience.
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Ireland
Leaders: Alicia Meyer & Tiffanee Fouts
Dates: March 7-14, 2025
Estimated Price: $4,500
Join us to experience the best Ireland has to offer! We'll tour cities like Dublin and Belfast while also exploring natural beauty at the Cliffs of Moher and Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seeing things from medieval to modernity, we'll enjoy traditional Irish stew & pub food throughout six locations in the country. With castles, cathedrals, cliffs, music, food, and more, we'll truly discover the gems of Ireland!
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Leaders: Chasity Lucio & Crystal Crespo-Santiago
Dates: March 7-16, 2025
Estimated Price: $3,200
Puerto Rico
Dreaming of a tropical escape but don’t have a passport? Puerto Rico, a vibrant U.S. territory, is your perfect destination! Immerse yourself in the island’s rich tapestry of history and culture without ever leaving the country. Explore the fascinating impact of the U.S. on Puerto Rico's indigenous heritage through captivating guided walking tours. Marvel at historic landmarks, vibrant art, and experience the island's lively culture through its delicious cuisine, rhythmic music, and energetic dance. Puerto Rico offers an exotic adventure with the convenience of a domestic trip!
PRICE DROP!
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Spoleto, Italy
Leaders: Dr. John & Meghan Poch
Dates: March 7-16, 2025
Estimated Price: $3,480
WAITLIST ONLY
This Go Encounter trip to Italy will take you to Spoleto, an ancient city that has an incredible history, a beautiful duomo, and authentic Italian culture that you will experience firsthand. Day Trips to Assisi (longtime home of St. Francis), Perugia (a vibrant college town that was long ago settled by the Etruscans), and Rome (the Eternal City and the center of Christendom, where both Peter and Paul were martyred) are included. Come experience amazing art, poetry, food, people, and perspectives that will absolutely change for the better how you see and understand the world!
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Turkey
Leaders: Dr. Tiberius Rata & Dr. Roger Stichter
Dates: March 7-16, 2025
Estimated Price: $3,320
WAITLIST ONLY
Embark on a captivating journey through the ancient sites of the Seven Churches of Revelation, many of which are now nestled within bustling modern cities. Experience the fascinating intersection of ancient faith and contemporary life as you explore these historical locations. Delve into the rich tapestry of history to uncover the evolving relationship between Islam and Christianity over the centuries. This trip offers a profound exploration of faith, history, and cultural transformation, bridging the gap between the past and present.
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Go Encounter
Summer 2025
Egypt
Leader: Dr. Tiberius Rata
Dates: May 12-22, 2025
Estimated Price: $3,700
Embark on a captivating educational journey through the heart of Egypt, where ancient wonders and vibrant culture await. Begin your exploration amidst the towering pyramids of Giza, marveling at the architectural genius of the ancients. Dive into the rich tapestry of Egyptian history, from the pharaohs to the modern era, uncovering the mysteries of hieroglyphics and the secrets of mummification. Immerse yourself in the melodic rhythms of Arabic, learning key phrases to navigate bustling souks and converse with locals. Delve into the complexities of Egyptian religion, from the worship of Ra to the legacy of Cleopatra. Witness the timeless beauty of Islamic architecture in Cairo's mosques and wander through the labyrinthine streets of medieval cities. Experience firsthand the warmth and hospitality of the Egyptian people, as they share their traditions and customs with open arms. This educational visit promises an unforgettable insight into Egypt's cultural heritage, language, and religious diversity.
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Spain
Leader: Heidi Miller
Dates: May 11-20, 2025
Estimated Price: $3,990
WAITLIST ONLY
Dive into Spain’s magic with our ten-day adventure! Wander Barcelona’s charming streets, admire stunning architecture, and explore Catalonia’s hidden gems like Figueres and Besalú. Glide through Costa Brava’s crystal waters on a kayaking trip and marvel at Montserrat’s Black Madonna amidst breathtaking landscapes. Immerse yourself in Barcelona's local life with a guided cycling tour through its vibrant streets, discovering its architectural marvels and lively culture. Indulge in the city's culinary delights on a Street Food Tour, from delectable tapas to irresistible sweet treats. Wrap up in Madrid, where you'll explore the Prado Museum Royal Palace and experience Hillsong United's church service. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in Spain’s rich culture, history, and adventure!
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
South Dakota
Leaders: Chasity Lucio & Dr. Jacqueline Schram
Dates: May 11-19, 2025
Estimated Price: $2,500
Experience an enriching cultural immersion into the language, values, and daily lives of the Lakota Sioux at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Join us for a profound journey as we attend an Indian Rodeo, visit the memorial of the Wounded Knee massacre, and explore the ongoing impact of American-Indian relations. This trip also offers a unique perspective on the connections between the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota and a reservation in Nova Scotia, Canada, deepening your understanding of Indigenous histories and contemporary issues.
PRICE DROP!
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Adobe Stock
Thailand
Leader: Olivia & Nathan Targgart
Dates: May 11-20, 2025
Estimated Price: $4,324
Join us as we venture to Asia to visit the stunning country of Thailand! Enjoy delicious food, snorkel through clear waters, wander through the beautiful markets, and learn about the culture and religion of this country. We will tour a traditional temple, hike a waterfall, and experience a favorite of this country: the elephants! Immerse yourself in this rich culture and stunning country while having fun with a great group!
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
France
Leaders: Andi & Jason Hobbs
Dates: June 3-13, 2025
Estimated Price: $3,650
WAITLIST ONLY
From the capital of France to the capital of the Alps, come discover the well-known and lesser-known lives of the French people. We will spend our first days in Paris discovering the sites and sounds of the city. Then, we will take a train south to Lyon, a city known for its Roman ruins, Old City and gastronomy. The majority of our time will be in Grenoble, a city where "there's a mountain at the end of every street." Here, we will be more immersed in a modest lifestyle away from the tourists. This voyage between capitals will allow us to see the richness of France's culture, as well as compare, contrast, and appreciate our own.
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours
Germany
Leader: Becky Stowers & Dr. Deb McEvoy
Dates: June 10-20, 2025
Estimated Price: $4,480
We'll be exploring Germany! Excited to explore the Munich area, Neuschwanstein Castle (who wouldn't want to visit the castle Disney is modeled after!), eat our way through a famous food market, Marienplatz- a plaza with a famous clock tower and fun shops, visit the sobering concentration camp- Dachau, experience stunning quintessential bavarian towns, and so much more!
Included:​
-
Flights
-
Transportation
-
Lodging
-
All on site meals
-
Activities, including entry fees to museums & tours