Loving the Bony Lady
A transsexual Mexican immigrant living in Queens is perhaps the city's most fervent follower of a forbidden—and increasingly beloved—occult saint. Read more.
Documenting Faith and Religion in New York’s Immigrant Communities
Dancing With Ganesha
For one afternoon each year, a quiet corner of Queens becomes a kaleidoscopic celebration of Hindu life. Read more.
You Can Ask Her For Anything
Every year, Arely Gonzalez throws a party for La Santa Muerte. Devotees thank “Saint Death” for another year of protection and miracles. It’s a feast for the grim reaper but it’s anything but morbid. Read more.
A City Witch
Lady Rhea is a real workaday witch. A practicing Wiccan for almost forty years, she sells magic products to clients looking for help in matters of money, luck, and love. Read more.
Allah on Bath Avenue
The Muslim American Society Youth Center offers Girls Scouts, karate and basketball, but also a Koranic lecture series and “sisters only” prom. It is a safe place for Muslim American kids to explore the question, “who am I?”
Read more.
I Call Her La Flaca
Arely Gonzalez has built what she believes to be the largest shrine to La Santa Muerte in New York. Gonzalez opens her doors to all devotees, so that they may seek her saint’s protection and comfort.
Read more.
Easter after the Revolution
Fleeing persecution and violence in Egypt, a steady stream of Copts has sought refuge at St. George Coptic Orthodox Church. The new arrivals gain freedom and safety, but they often lose everything else. This is where the Church steps in.
Read more.
Magic Happens
At the Russian American Jewish Experience (RAJE), young Jews from the former Soviet Union come to connect with their faith and heritage—and with each other.
Read more.
Prayer for Haiti
Many Catholic churches across the U.S. have seen a sharp decline in worshipers. But at Ss. Joachim and Anne in Queens, charismatic worship at this primarily Haitian church has kept the parish vibrant, especially during times of suffering.
Read more.