It began one Sunday ... getting there after the morning sun, before the church bells rang ... meandering the streets and watching people scurry along the sidewalks to church in their finest ... or just talking in the street, huddled in shared laughter and gossip ... familiar people, hugs, camaraderie ... children at their feet or nearby running in circles ... girls wanting to look like their moms holding purses and wearing hats, just as delicious in their Sunday best.

I found myself researching many of the small churches in the area, becoming a regular at some (I even got my own sign for my car so I could double-park if I wanted). I have begun to document the churches, but my focus is always the people ... community ... always community .

Sometimes I go into a service, sit for awhile ... kind of interesting as a born Jew ... I love the music ... the hands swaying. I love the sense of community inside ... and I love being in the streets before and after the service. Hugs and kisses all around ... belonging.

This will always call me.