The church was Ebenezer Methodist – a colonial style church influenced by the British living in Antigua when the church was constructed 165 years ago. I was traveling with my mother, and we had wandered from the main street in St. John’s after spotting Ebenzer’s bell tower and cross steeple down a side street.

Finding the side door to the church open when we arrived, mom and I marched up the steps and were immediately greeted by a friendly native who invited us in to look around the church.

After photographing in the choir balcony, mom and I agreed the woman at the door was well worth knowing. We carefully wound our way down the steps and found our greeter waiting for us. She had taken it upon herself to dig out church bulletins from a music concert six months prior because she just thought we might be interested. Then she settled in a pew by the side door and began telling us about herself and her congregation.

The woman referred to herself as Miss Martin. Miss Martin had five children, all whom were employed, she proudly declared, leaning toward us when she made the statement. She told us she sang in the choir and that she cleaned the church every Tuesday. So remarkable you came to see Miss Martin today! It was meant that you would be here when I was cleaning this church, praise God, to His glory!

Amen. The back streets are the best places on any trip, I’ve found. Even if the path looks a little sketchy as our route did, you might miss the opportunity to meet Miss Martin if you stick to Main Street.

Have you had a similar encounter with a local on your travels? Was your experience the same or vastly different? I would love to hear about it.

Reminder! All photos from your 4th of July weekend celebrations are due tomorrow. Find out more here.