Exploring the Sacred and Spiritual Side of Sunny Jacksonville, FL

Sunshine, sandy beaches, and surf are common associations people have with Jacksonville. But theres a deeper side to this coastal city that visitors should explore: its spiritual and religious life.

Jacksonville is home to diverse communities practicing different faiths. Some of the best places to experience this diversity include The Islamic Center of Northeast Florida (2333 St Johns Bluff Rd S), which offers a welcoming mosque for prayer and events open to all. Theres also Congregation Ahavath Chesed (8727 San Jose Blvd), a historic Reform synagogue founded in 1882 where visitors can attend services or learn about Jewish history at their museum.

For those seeking Christian worship experiences, First Baptist Church (124 W Ashley St) boasts an impressive campus with tours available during the week. Or head over to The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine (38 Cathedral Pl) just south of town for stunning Gothic architecture mixed with Spanish influence.

Spiritual healing may be found within at Memorial Park Cemetery & Funeral Home (5750 N University Ave). This cemetery nestled in Riverside is oneofakind as it features not only traditional burial grounds but also beautiful gardens where you can meditate on natures beauty amidst sculptures by renowned artists.

Those who want something offthebeatenpath can try taking a walk around MOCA Jacksonville Museum Of Contemporary Art Jax murals located throughout downtown featuring spiritual significance themes alongside contemporary artwork while stopping by Chamblin Bookmine ((215 N Laura St)) bookshops browsing through shelves chockfull books from various eras including theological texts across several religions mixing fun & faith together under one roof!

While exploring these sacred spaces and museums, dont forget about Fort Caroline National Memorial Site Timucuan Ecological Preserve(12713 Fort Caroline Rd). Here travelers will discover important cultural sites that tell stories dating back hundreds of years.

Jacksonville may be known for its sunny beaches and laidback lifestyle, but its the spiritual life that offers a glimpse into the vibrancy and diversity of the city. So next time youre in town, add a few sacred sites to your itinerary they offer a unique perspective on this coastal jewel.

Websites/Twitter Names:

The Islamic Center of Northeast Florida: https://icnef.org/

Congregation Ahavath Chesed: https://www.thetemplejacksonville.org/

First Baptist Church: https://www.fbcjax.com/

Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine : http://thefirstparish.org/saintaugustinecathedralbasilica/

Memorial Park Cemetery & Funeral Home: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/funeralhomes/jacksonvillefl/memorialparkfuneralhomeandcemetery/8299

MOCA Jacksonville Museum Of Contemporary Art Jax murals at Chamblin Bookmine :https://mocajacksonville.unf.edu/exhibitions/muralsproject/

Fort Caroline National Memorial Site Timucuan Ecological Preserve (https://www.nps.gov/timu/index.htm)