One World Program Philosophy

The rationale for an immersion living and solidarity program is based on the conviction that experiential learning is more effective than ‘book learning’, that limited points of view are best challenged to moving to new viewing points and that – while we can’t think ourselves into new ways of living – we can live ourselves into new ways of thinking.

The program provides participants with an abundance of on-site learning and work in solidarity with people in the so-called ‘Third World’. The projects are all local, on-going operations such as medical, agricultural and educational initiatives, women’s and youth programs, food schemes, and poverty relief. This work is primarily a learning opportunity for the One World participants and a means to participate in communities’ struggles to improve local situations.

The eight month programs involve a four week period of preparation followed by six months of immersion living and project work in a developing country. It is this experience that will provide the material for a new understanding of the global connections between participants’ lives and those of global South.

Participants are also called to share and reflect spiritually throughout their experience. Spiritual sharing and relection is an important part of connecting with group members, interpreting our experience, as well as forming a basis for why immersion is so important. Participants are called to be active in reflecting on the meaning of their experiences in light of the wisdom and teachings of various spiritual and religous traditions.

Through immersion living the participants gain knowledge of their hosts and the local culture, economy and political situation. Participants become acutely aware of the challenges their hosts face as well as locally-developed solutions. This increased awareness will help develop a growing community in Canada committed to constructive relationships with the poor of the ‘Majority World’.

Upon return to Canada the group will spend four weeks together to reflect on their experience and what they have learned. The participants are committed to community education through presentations and work shops given to schools, colleges, churches and community groups – a very important element of the One World Program.