Sacred and profane

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For more commentary on this week's readings, see the Reflections on the Lectionary page, which includes Palmer's current Living by the Word column as well as past magazine and online-only content. For full-text access to all articles, subscribe to the Century.

I was in Boston for a day, and my friend asked if there were any local sights I wanted to see. I tentatively suggested the Liberty Bell. "That's in Philadelphia," my friend laughed. "But I know where I'll take you. You're going to love this place." We got on the interstate and drove to a shopping mall. We entered next to a seafood restaurant, took the elevator down to the basement, and walked down a hallway. I heard chanting and prayers. Vested priests were lined up in a procession.