American Pilgrimage

Stop 3 - The Pageant at Hill Cumorah

pilgrim — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 18:12:39 +0000

Every year, around 700 people participate in the reenactments of the Book of Mormon at Hill Cumorah, where Joseph Smith is thought to have found golden plates chronicling Jesus’ appearance in the New World. With handmade costumes, dramatic special effects, the play is a sight to behold, but also a strong expression of faith for members of the Church of Latter Day Saints.

Stop 2 - Shape Note at The Friends General Conference Gathering

pilgrim — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 18:50:14 +0000

Shape Note, also known as Sacred Harp, is a form of American harmonic spiritual that almost died out in the 20th century. Quakers are one of the main groups that are helping to revive the soulful, if not always melodic, vocal worship.

Stop 2 - Peace at The Friends General Conference Gathering

pilgrim — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:18:55 +0000

Opposition to war is one of the hallmarks of the Quaker faith. Marjorie Nelson epitomizes that belief, as her non-violent healing ministry during the Vietnam war led her to be captured by communist Northern forces. Here, she speaks about the Peace Testimony and how it has guided her life.

On the Way - The EarthQuaker Bike Trip

pilgrim — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:21:19 +0000

Seven Quakers are biking from Philadelphia to Johnstown, Pa., spreading a message of environmental witness and carbon-neutral living. I’m joining them on their nine-day, 275-mile journey.

Stop 1 - Baltimore Basilica of the Assumption

pilgrim — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:50:36 +0000

The Baltimore Basilica of the Assumption is living memory of a time when Catholicism was an illicit religion in America. Built in stark, neo-classical style, it represents a desire to proclaim one’s patriotism and avoid discrimination.