Why do we love films about nuns? What is it about those Catholic women who choose to devote themselves to the habit that inspire such great movies? From historical dramas and dark themes to epic musicals and riotous comedies, nuns have graced the silver screen in countless ways over the decades. Some of these movies boast unbelievably memorable filming locations, locations … [Read more...]
BE A TOURIST, NOT A TRAVELER
Since the first step in overcoming a problem is admitting that you have a problem, let me begin by saying, “My name is Howard, and I am a tourist”; a fourteen-hours-a-day, site-mongering, camera-clicking tourist, as often as I get a chance. And, may I add, I am darn proud of it. Yet nowadays there seems to be a stigma associated with being a tourist: “Don’t be just another … [Read more...]
HISTORIC LUTHERAN CHURCHES ACROSS AMERICA
In 2017, Lutherans and other Protestants from around the world celebrated one of the most important religious and historic anniversaries of the 21st century: the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s 95 Theses, which kicked off the Protestant Reformation and a new age of western civilization. In honor of this event, The Complete Pilgrim is visiting some of the most historic … [Read more...]
OLDEST QUAKER MEETING HOUSES IN AMERICA
Tucked away among the many denominations that make up the tapestry of Christianity in America is a relatively small and unassuming group called the Religious Society of Friends. Better known as the Quakers, the Religious Society of Friends became known for their unusual religious meetings without leadership rather than traditional Protestant worship services with ministers or … [Read more...]
HISTORIC PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHES OF THE NORTHEAST
The Presbyterian Church is one of the oldest Christian denominations in the United States. Whether you go back to the early 1700s when the first congregations were formed in the colonies, or even earlier to the 1690s when Presbyterian congregations transplanted directly from the British Isles, Presbyterians have been the dominant branch of the Reform church in America for well … [Read more...]
AMERICA’S METHODIST TRAIL
The Unites States boasts many home-grown Christian denominations; but the first true nationally organized church in America was the Methodist Church, an outgrowth of Anglican Church then dominant in the colonies of the British Empire around the world. It was founded by John Wesley, an Anglican churchman, who personally preached in the colonial city of Savannah. Although … [Read more...]
GREATEST SITES OF THE NATIVITY
At Christmas time millions around the world travel to see family and friends, while others flock to vacation destinations. However, there are many who still travel on pilgrimage at this festive time of year, seeking to celebrate one of Christianity’s most sacred days someplace meaningful. The great cathedrals and churches of the world draw many at this time of year. But for … [Read more...]
GREAT CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS ACROSS AMERICA
From coast to coast, from Thanksgiving through New Years, America is awash in holiday celebrations. There are parades and pageants, concerts and markets, Christmas light drive-thrus, festivals and even themed sporting events. There is no way to encompass a “best” list, certainly not a short one. I have read dozens of such lists, and they’re all completely different from one … [Read more...]
A BRIEF POP HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS
Are we entering a dark age of Christmas pop culture? Some might argue that we already have. Christmas has always been a magnet for writers, artists and musicians seeking to put their stamp on the western world’s most beloved time of year. Some have done it for the love of the holidays, or simply because they are inspired (and of course, more than a few have done it to … [Read more...]
CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK OFF THE BEATEN PATH
There is no place in America that celebrates the holidays like New York City. From Thanksgiving Week to New Years Day, New York swarms with tourists. Christmas week itself sees tens of thousands of visitors packing places such as Rockefeller Center and Macys, while The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center and The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall play sold-out shows. But for those … [Read more...]