Faith while abroad. Where does one even start? I genuinely had NO idea what this was going to look like, and wow, did the Lord show up. If it’s one thing about me, I am a huge routine person! Change is hard because I function so well on having and maintaining structure throughout my days. And let’s be real, studying abroad is a BIG change! 

Starting my day with the beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea, quiet time, and a protein-packed breakfast! This has been the best way I’ve found to start my days! 

Starting at the beginning, the biggest way for me to invest in my relationship with God and staying rooted is finding a time in the mornings that I could do quiet time. Starting my days in the Lord’s presence has always helped me focus my mind on what’s important. This was relatively easy for me to work into my new schedule, just getting up a little earlier for school in the mornings. Still, on a personal level, another aspect of my personality that the Lord speaks to me through is art! 

Two of my roommates and I in front of Notre-Dame Cathedral, located in Paris, France! This tour was incredible, and we were so blessed to have been able to enter—considering that it only reopened to the public very recently! 

Art, primarily through architecture, is naturally woven into every single city and country that we have traveled to while abroad because of the big Catholic presence and rich history in Europe. This has given me ample opportunity to tour the most beautiful cathedrals and basilicas that I have ever seen in my life. It has seriously been such a blessing to be able to step foot into so many different and uniquely beautiful places of worship, building in me an awe of who God is and how gifted He has made His people! 

A CEA CAPA program hike along the coast of Albir! This hike featured stunning views along the coast and was a super sweet time with the other students in the program! 

A side stairwell in the Sagrada Familia, glowing from the afternoon sun pouring through its stained-glass windows. 

Contrasting all the man-made architecture is the stunning natural landscapes of Europe. Every place that we have visited and seen is naturally charming in its own way. From the different types of trees to flowers, to weather, and (especially as a sea lover) proximity to the coast, Europe is full of natural beauty. The sights never fail to leave me speechless and remind me of how great my God is! 

Dios Proveerá—a sermon that was beautifully led at my home church here in Alicante: Iglesia Cristiana en Alicante. 

This breathtaking chapel is none other than Sainte Chapelle, located in Paris, France. My parents recommended doing this tour, as the chapel features 15 stained glass windows depicting a total of 1,113 scenes from the Bible. 

My roommates and I enjoying the sunrise from the beach here in Alicante! This is a super sweet and slow way to start the day, sitting in awe of the Lord's artwork! 

The last, and maybe sweetest, surprise has been the church that I found here in Alicante! Iglesia Cristiana en Alicante has become my home church during my time abroad. Here, I have been able to go, worship alongside other believers, and listen to sermons entirely in Spanish! This has helped me grow in my general understanding and listening skills, as well as practicing talking with some locals before and after service!  

Catedral Primada de Toledo—Spain was a must-hit on our first weekend trip! This cathedral is absolutely stunning, both inside and out—and is only one of the 87 cathedrals that can be found all throughout Spain. 

This church also has numerous connection groups that I was able to join via WhatsApp, all that focus on different things—from young adults to an English-speaking group, and finally, an athletic group! 

Worship led by my new friend from Iglesia Cristiana en Alicante! Worship here has been one of the most incredible experiences because I have never experienced a whole church singing to the Lord in a different language!  

My beautiful friend taking a picture of a sign at our church, which is welcoming all its readers ‘home.’ This church creates such a lively, yet safe and homey atmosphere for all of its members and is full of people who make it like a home away from home! 

Staying true and rooted in faith has been different, incredibly impactful, and so sweet while here in Spain. God has been so good, using this season of change to teach and grow me in ways that I never could have imagined!