Introduction for Paper

Standing among the decorative stained glassed windows I began to think about whether or not a real person could find spiritual resolve in this virtual place. In the cathedral where I stood I began to recall the pictures of cathedrals that I had seen pictures of, either on television or in books. The similarities were striking even down to some of the smallest details. This cathedral on Epiphany Island is only one place to worship in Second life as many of the world’s religions are represented throughout this virtual world. Even from a secular viewpoint it is hard not to recognize the breadth of diverse spiritual practices incorporated within this environment. Different religions in Second Life are practiced in virtual mosques, temples, churches, and cathedrals.