I'm in a very very small town, half the population of 40 years ago, but still several churches. I attend a Lutheran Church that is now fairly small, but with lots of involvement by those who attend. For about the last 6 years the retired pastor of the local Baptist church and his wife have attended this Lutheran Church, actually invited by a previous pastor. Long story, as he was kicked out of that Baptist church down the street. When he is able, he attends our weekly men's and women's Bible study. A few weeks ago he stated that since attending our church he has heard more about the Love of Jesus than he did at the Baptist church.
Thank you for truth! I've never believed we can 'lump' churches or denominations together or pick them apart. It's possible every church has an area in flux at a particular time for a particular reason. Self-examination is always a place to start - where may I fall short? What is happening in me, my immediate family, my extended family, church family that may be pushing my beliefs, etc. God is so very good.
Thank you so much. In these days of contemporary, rock concert style worship, I long for the tradition and connection found in liturgical worship. I don't critique the modern, it simply isn't for me. As for your description of small mainline churches, I am currently visiting for a small UMC that equips the congregation as well as ministers to the community. Your article confirms to me that I am on the right path for me.
Thank you!
I have been on this journey.
Let me add another twist to this.
I was born and raised Catholic.
Left ‘the church’ in my 20’s
Went Protestant in my 30’s
Charismatic in my 40’s-50s
Last 15 years I have ‘floated’
Recently, I have been looking at the Reformation and revisiting early church history, reading books by very early authors.
It has been restorative and freeing to be able to embrace the faiths of my past and sift through for my faith today.
I am extremely grateful for each step of this journey.
Truth my friend. I have attended both types of church in my life and each has strengths and weaknesses.
This was something I really needed to read and think about today. Thank you.
I'm in a very very small town, half the population of 40 years ago, but still several churches. I attend a Lutheran Church that is now fairly small, but with lots of involvement by those who attend. For about the last 6 years the retired pastor of the local Baptist church and his wife have attended this Lutheran Church, actually invited by a previous pastor. Long story, as he was kicked out of that Baptist church down the street. When he is able, he attends our weekly men's and women's Bible study. A few weeks ago he stated that since attending our church he has heard more about the Love of Jesus than he did at the Baptist church.
Thank you for truth! I've never believed we can 'lump' churches or denominations together or pick them apart. It's possible every church has an area in flux at a particular time for a particular reason. Self-examination is always a place to start - where may I fall short? What is happening in me, my immediate family, my extended family, church family that may be pushing my beliefs, etc. God is so very good.
Thank you so much. In these days of contemporary, rock concert style worship, I long for the tradition and connection found in liturgical worship. I don't critique the modern, it simply isn't for me. As for your description of small mainline churches, I am currently visiting for a small UMC that equips the congregation as well as ministers to the community. Your article confirms to me that I am on the right path for me.