Preekstoel en een gangpad in de Saint Patrick's Cathedral te New York before 1886

This is an undated photograph of the Saint Patrick's Cathedral in New York, taken by an anonymous artist. The architecture provides a glimpse into the cultural values embedded in religious institutions. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, a symbol of the Catholic Church, stands in contrast to the historical marginalization of immigrant communities, predominantly Irish, who faced discrimination. Its presence in the urban landscape signifies more than just a place of worship; it represents a space where identity, faith, and community intersect. Looking at the rows of pews, we might consider the varying degrees of access and belonging experienced by individuals within these spaces, shaped by gender, class, and race. The architecture itself, with its soaring arches and intricate details, evokes feelings of awe and reverence, reinforcing the power dynamics inherent in religious institutions. As you reflect on this image, consider how the sacred and the secular are interwoven in the spaces we inhabit.