Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption
On the walk to the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island we encountered the most charming church you could hope to see in a quaint island community.
The official name is Union Congregational Church but everyone calls it the Little Stone Church, a fitting name if I’ve ever heard one.
The faithful were beginning to gather in their Sunday best as we walked by and I made a mental note to stop after our visit to the hotel.
We were in luck! Not only was the service over, the doors were open and the pastor was inside. I got to admire this pretty 1904 church made of local fieldstone.
The minister said that his congregation consists of only a few local residents and that many attendees are visitors each week.
Since winters are harsh and most people leave the island before the weather takes hold, they hold services beginning in May through early October.
The stained glass and woodwork are gorgeous and the light in here is calming. We didn’t linger here but I enjoyed each breath I drew in this beautiful old church.
If you visit Mackinac, it’s just down the hill from the hotel. They welcome guests!
Everyone should have friends who are willing to derail their plans to slam on the brakes whenever you gasp the words “look at that!”
My Pittsburgh pal is a champ in this category. When we spotted this Catholic church atop a hill in a tiny western Pennsylvania village, she didn’t hesitate to look for the entrance.
The door was open so we were able to let ourselves in. My friend prayed while I admired the quiet and the light of this beautiful sanctuary.
It really is gorgeous.
It was built in 1893 and, while it feels historic, it also feels fresh and well cared for.
The stained glass is magnificent.
The cemetery contains numerous old graves with interesting, finely crafted headstones.
Lovely, eh?
Just before we left, we met a woman who is a longtime congregant. We had a quick chat with her and she confirmed that the church has an active congregation and she seemed positively thrilled that we showed an interest.
It made my heart happy to think there are still people out there so devoted to their church and faith and that they would make strangers feel so welcome.
I turned just in time to see this fellow zipping down the street on his bike. This picture summons happy memories and I appreciate how the church, the colors, the motion and the rainy street work together.
That’s St Bernard’s Parish, finished in 1876 to accommodate a growing Irish American congregation. Now it’s called Our Lady of Guadalupe at St Bernard’s Church. Whatever you call it, this is even more stunning in person. That enormous rose window is larger than life and I am thrilled that we got to see it while strolling down West 14th Street in New York.
Maple Street United Methodist Church is a prominent fixture just beyond downtown Lancaster, Ohio. I always enjoy a look-see when in the neighborhood but it’s especially nice at Christmas.
As lovely as it is to adventure and see new things, it’s equally marvelous to see the same landmarks change with the seasons. This one didn’t disappoint!
“It looked like the world was covered in a cobbler crust of brown sugar and cinnamon.” – Sarah Addison Allen
We are expecting rain here in southern Ohio today. I intend to use this day for rest and some much needed catch up work around the house. If I play my cards right, I’ll make time to cook something tasty and nutritious for this week’s lunches as well.
Not every day can be for adventures. Sometimes we have to stay home and recover – or better yet – prepare for what’s ahead! Enjoy this day, friends!