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Served

Served

Lately my husband and I have been stressed out about church stuff. However, thinking back I realize this is nothing new.

And I know we’re not alone. Church stuff also stresses out our friends and looking around I notice it’s a widespread issue. “Young people” seem to be fed up with church or are not attending altogether. Why is this?

This question is something I’m pondering lately. This attitude towards church could be because our society is increasingly consumer driven. We shop for everything: jobs, relationships, cities to live in, homes… We have endless options and we can choose exactly what we want.

So it’s not too outrageous then that the same thing is happening when choosing a church. This isn’t all bad, but it sure isn't all good. We look for churches where we like the music, the time of the service, the pastor’s sermons, the people, the coffee break, etc. And there are enough churches that we can do this. I can think of at least five within walking distance just in our neighbourhood, all of which would offer our family something different.

I hate “church shopping.” I’m not saying I don’t do it, but I don’t like it. I don’t like going to one service and judging if this is the place I want to become a part of. And now that we have kids, it’s even harder. How will the people react if my daughter makes noise during the service? What kind of kids programs do they have? Are there other children?

So what’s the solution? More specialized churches, like a rock church, or a cowboy church? I don’t think so. It's interesting that when I think about my friends who are dissatisfied with their church — it’s not a specific type of person. Some are older than I, some younger, some my age. They are married, dating, and single — with kids and without. And even some who like contemporary worship and others who prefer traditional services.

Maybe one of the problems is how much we focus on what the church can do for us, rather than how we can serve the church, or the community through the church. That said, it’s hard to push myself; I usually need to be asked.

There have been years when I've attended a church and never been asked to help out. I understand why this is, people don’t like to ask and some people don't like to be asked. But I know when I get involved, really involved, in church, I am happier then when I just show up on Sunday.

I’ve also noticed when my family goes for a long chunk of time without attending services no one calls to check on us. I know that the church is just made up of people, who all have shortcoming and insecurities. And I know that people are afraid of bullying people into attending church or getting involved, but it can make you feel like no one cares, and that you are replaceable.

What if we simply stopped trying to give people everything they could ever want and asked them to pitch in? What if we made the call to see how people are doing? Could this solve some of the problems in the church?

Are you in the throes of church shopping? Are you fed up with church? Check out our latest article How to Recognize a Healthy Church. These six practical steps will transform your search and give you the tools to confidently choose a healthy church.

 

 

 


About the Author:  Celia Kinney
 

Celia Kinney