Welcome to New Orleans...the City of Sin

"Welcome to New Orleans, the City of Sin." A saxophone player announced this welcome as we passed by him on Bourbon street on my first trip to New Orleans.
After spending some time in this city, I wonder if that is so true. Of course, the abuse of alcohol, promiscuously dressed women, practice with Tarot cards and palm readings, and Voodoo are readily apparent when you visit the French Quarter or Bourbon Street. But is Bourbon Street more sinful than Wall Street or Como Avenue (where the Seminary sits)?

Is it worse to promote your sin than to deny and hide it?

I found New Orleans to be a wonderful city of creativity, music, art, and architecture, at a unique historic cultural intersection. I enjoyed real connection with fellow students & alumni , CYF faculty/staff, and children, youth, and family ministers from around the country while exploring the corners of courtyard bars and jazz clubs. I also witnessed a group of people march down Bourbon Street with a giant cross and stop periodically to gather and pray.

I wonder if they intended to condemn those who were engaging in great sin or proclaim Christ's very presence in that place.

Maybe, after all it's come through, New Orleans is a city of stubborn hope, not just defined by its sin.