By morgan mizell

NATCHEZ — Many churches in the area hold significant features, which attract tourists throughout the week.

However, local pastors invite them to attend services as well.

Both St. Mary Basilica and First Presbyterian churches have seen visitors in their congregation during this year’s Spring Pilgrimage.

Both churches date back to the 1800’s and have very unique attributes, which appeal to tourists who visit the area.

“We had the largest number of visitors during last week’s service,” said The Rev. David O’Connor. “I think our increase in attendance is a combination of tourism and the season of Lent.”

O’Connor mentioned the 40 days of Lent having more than just numeric value.

“In the Bible, 40 days are associated with a time of preparation,” said O’Connor. “We see Moses waiting for 40 days to receive the Ten Commandments, and Jesus spent 40 days in the desert before teaching. It is a time of preparation. We are preparing for Easter.”

The numbers in all of last week’s services were higher than the previous week, and O’Connor said he has seen a number of guests as he has greeted them after the service.

“We don’t do anything extra for tourists,” said O’Connor. “I think people visiting a church while on vacation just like to blend in, and that is what we do here.”

A few blocks away, First Presbyterian Church has also seen guests among its congregation.

“We had a group of students, from Calvin College, down on spring break who attended last week’s service,” said the Rev. Noelle Read. “We don’t offer any special services, but we have seen guests this week who are part of the Presbyterian Church and are just looking for a service to attend.”

Read, who co-pastors with husband, Denny, said the Church’s photo gallery, located in Stratton Chapel, is an attraction for guests.

“We have a docent who guides tours through the gallery,” said Read. “Sometimes, bus groups come in to see the photographs and they find out about our service times and come worship with us while they are in the area.”

Read said she and her husband make a point to welcome guests when they open the service and greet people they do not know.

St. Mary holds a mass Monday through Friday at 8 a.m., and Sunday at 10. First Presbyterian holds Sunday service at 10:30 a.m.