From The Peopling of New York City

Interview Questions for clergy at the 58st St. Sebastian Church

Topic: Cultural Contact (Religious Tension)

1. When was this Church first founded?

2. Are all religious groups and races welcome in this Church?

3. From the 9 AM mass this morning, how much of the attendees would you say were South Asian?

4. Has this church maintained relationships with other religious groups?

5. How so?

6. Have you heard about the currents religious riots in India?

7. How do you feel about the riots?

8. How has it affected the South Asian population (attendees of your church)?

9. Has there ever been any major conflict in the church due to religious disagreement?

10. Have you noticed any distinct tension or dislike among attendees of your Church?

11. Has the congregation ever had any problems with its neighbors?

12. Have there ever been any objections about noise, festivals, or just the changeover in the congregation?