I didn't expect to find a monastery that seemed to be out of medieval Europe in the middle of nowhere in Alabama, but sure enough, there's one there. The site is magnificent, and being out of place only adds to its magnificence. The outside overpowers, and the sanctuary humbles with its beauty.

But I also had a strong sense of being an outsider while there. I had no idea what the pilgrims were doing, or why they were making these devotions. It is a site designed for pious Roman Catholics, and although the sign at the gate says that people of all faiths are welcomed, it is still easy to feel left out if you don't follow this strain of Roman Catholicism.