Q: What is the relationship between Quest and the Crossing?

The Crossing is a progressive, theologically open Christian ministry at the University of Wisconsin. The Crossing welcomes students of all faith and non-faith backgrounds and religious traditions, and practices the Christian principals of radical inclusivity, tolerance, and social justice present in the Gospels. The Crossing seeks to provide a safe and welcoming community where all students can explore their relationship to God, each other, and the world.

Quest is just one of the many programs of the Crossing. The Crossing organizes each Quest trip in order to provide UW students with an opportunity to explore some of today's pressing issues within their fascinating contexts. The communities that are built on Quest trips become somewhat of a microcosm of the things that we value and care about at the Crossing. However, unlike trips to Kenya or Israel-Palestine, events at the Crossing are close to home and don't require a large chunk of your paycheck!

Q: How are Quest trips funded?

In the end, the final cost of the trip is the responsbility of each one of the participants, but group fundraisers, ASM grants, and shareholder donations from family and friends can really help to defray the cost of the trip for participants. You can learn more about how Shareholder Fundraising works here.

The Crossing also has a limited number of scholarships that we are able to offer to students who are committed to the trip experience but really need a hand with funding. Quests are meant to be exciting and nurturing journeys, and worries about finances shouldn't get in the way of your overall experience. If funding a $3000 overseas adventure is going to be a major stress in your life, you may want to consider going on a less expensive Quest, or saving up for a year and venturing out next year.

Q: Can I apply for more than one Quest?

You are welcome to apply for as many Quests as you wish. If you apply for two that travel on the same dates (e.g. both over spring break), we may try to clarify with you during an interview which trip you are most interested in, and offer our thoughts on which group you would be best for.

If you're a Quest alumni ready to venture out again, we'd be happy to have you! Just fill out the alumni application to get started on your next adventure!

Q: Is it okay for a couple or a bunch of friends to go on the same Quest?

It’s great to travel with close friends, but also important that Quest groups are inclusive of everyone and that strong “factions” don’t arise. Therefore, whether it's appropriate or not depends entirely on the people who want to travel together: Some couples and groups of friends are excellent at welcoming others and participating in big groups, while others are not. Quest leaders work hard to ensure that each group is given its best chance of having a great experience, and part of that is making it likely that each person in the group has a chance to get to know all of the other people well.

Q: Where do Quest groups meet?

Most meetings will be in the Student Louge (Room 204) at the Crossing. The Crossing is located at 1127 University Ave (on the corner of Charter and University on the same block as the Chemistry Building). Sometimes Quest groups will do service projects off campus, or meet at a campfire site in the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. You'll receive more information about the pre-trip meeting schedule upon accepting an invitation to travel with Quest as well as at your first group meeting.

Q: If I sign up for a Quest, can I come to Crossing events?

Of course! Quest students are always welcomed - but never pressured - to enjoy Crossing events. There's plenty going on at the Crossing: Vespers worship is very relaxed and informal, and takes place every Sunday at 5pm. Free, homecooked dinners are served every Sunday at 6pm. And, there is always a variety of service and small group opportunities taking place, so we would encourage you to check out the Crossing events calendar to see if there's something that you would like to be a part of! If you're passionate about something that you don't see happening at the Crossing, just let us know - we're always looking for cool new things to be a part of!

Q: What if our destination country becomes unsafe?

Tough one. We are committed to keeping Quest students safe, but also realize that traveling away from home always entails a degree of risk. Decisions about group travel when conditions are unstable are made by the staff of the Crossing, using information from the U.S. State Department and Center for Disease Control as guidance. In the event of unrest, the group may choose to alter their travel plans in country to increase security, or to delay the Quest. International Quests include travel insurance in the cost of the trip, so if the risk for travel becomes too great, any expenses that are already paid for should be reimbursed by the insurance company.

Q: What is the meaning of life?

Even tougher. We’re not sure yet, but think it has something to do with walking humbly, serving others, seeking peace and justice, cleaning up after yourself, expanding your mind, and enjoying the bounty and beauty of the earth. If you have any tips, let us know.