In a world divided in many ways between "us and them," Tours of Faiths may be even more important today than they were when Rev. John Clinton began them many years ago. John started the tours because he felt people would appreciate others more if they had the opportunity to be in others’ places of worship and had the opportunity to learn about how others practice their religious beliefs.

Tours continue today through the Des Moines Area Religious Council (277-6969). Cost of a tour is $35, payable to DMARC. Groups provide their own transportation. Tours, which usually last 3-3 ½ hours, need to be on weekdays when buildings are open. Confirmation classes, senior groups, and sometimes groups from out of town call for tours.

New Hope United Methodist Church did a tour in March, 2005, and Covenant Presbyterian in January, 2006. Both were confirmation classes. Congregations visited during these two tours were St. Ambrose Cathedral, St. John’s Lutheran Church, First United Methodist Church, St. George Greek Orthodox Church, First Church of Christ Scientist, Unity Church, the Cathedral of St. Paul Episcopal, and Temple B’Nai Jeshurun.