How the City Spoke Jan. 6 (Inner Journey)

Alter at Ursuline Convent

Alter at St. Louis Cathedral

There are many things that are common denominators across the country but one that has stood out to me especially is religion. New Orleans is very prideful that the catholic faith was a huge part of their beginning and is still a constant for them today. Even when they refer to their cooking they refer to adding the “Holy Trinity” (celery, green pepper, and onion) into multiple dishes. Having this as a common theme throughout not only our tours of the church and convent but also the cuisine tour prompts you to reflect on religion in general. Each person has a different take on religion and the meaning it has for them. I know for me personally the day allowed me to reflect on multiple instances what religion/faith meant to me and how it affects my life. Religion for me is something that I hold very dear/near to me from what my parents and family have instilled in me since I was young. For some they are very strict in their views and not accepting of others but for me I am accepting of other religions in a respectful way. I may not believe what they do but I am not going to tell someone they are wrong in what they think. One example that really stood out to me was during the tour of the St. Louis Cathedral. The tour guide told us about her relocation before and during hurricane Katrina. She stayed with a friend who was of the Southern Baptist faith which is different from her Catholic faith. Her friend made it appoint to let her know where the Catholic churches were in her area but she chose to go with her friend to her church. The tour guide talked about how she felt welcome and accepted in the church she attended. I think that speaks to the testament of the churches and atmosphere here in the south especially here in Louisiana. They want you to feel welcome and like family.