Impressions of World Religious Centers

The Al Huda Islamic Center, where we went first, was by far the most interesting place for me. I learned a lot there, and I came out with a very good feeling about the Islamic religion. I was very touched by how honest Mr. Ahmed was when it came to his faith, especially when he addressed the roles of women. I definitely could have sat there and listened to him for another hour. I know that Muslims are peaceful people, and their religion is more than a faith, but is a lifestyle as well, one that calls for followers to live a life of moderation and control. As a big fan of books in any form, I found the beautiful ones stacked around the room fascinating, and I wish that I could have had the opportunity to look through a few.

The second place we went, The Congregation of the children of Israel, was pretty interesting as well. I found it quite funny that Rabbi Gerson seemed just as, if not more, interested in us as we were in what he had to say about Judaism. My favourite aspect of that particular trip was the building. It was beautiful, and I could tell that the rabbi took great pride in it. I also loved the Torahs, which were equally gorgeous. It may sound superficial, but some of the most interesting things to me about any religion are the items used for worship, as well as the buildings that the followers worship in. On another note, however, I actually asked a question... which I was slightly proud of myself for doing, if you know what I mean. My question was; 'why do people see Jews as a different group of people, rather than just a a religion?' I am rather- scratch that, very, ashamed to say that I'm can't quite remember his answer, but I do know that he agreed with me, and said it was a very good question, so I was happy.

The last place we visited was St. Joseph's Catholic Church. I have to say, whether it was the fact that it was almost lunch time, I did not exactly enjoy this one. Call me impressionable, but it could also have something to do with the fact that since I read Angels and Demons, Catholic churches- or churches period- have kind of creeped me out. I get this sense that someone is watching me, which could all be very symbolic, I'm sure, but for now I'll choose not to investigate further into this phobia. I thought that the guest lecturer gave a lot of information, and I like that she didn't expect us to do anything that she thought we wouldn't be comfortable doing, while at the same time welcoming to sample a few traditions if we wanted to, such as annointing our faces with the holy water. I also like that they paid attention to the fact that they have many Hispanic people in their church, and had the shrine dedicated to the Guadalupe Hildalgo. I only wish that I'd asked about the history of St. Joseph, and why their church was named after him, but I wasn't thinking about it at the time. Hey, that's what the Internet is for, right?

P.S. Thank you for the cookie, Mrs. Siegmund!