In the last month (perhaps even more) the most church-like experience I've had was a Snow Patrol concert I went to two weeks ago in Belfast. The sound, the emotions, thousands singing at once, the lyrics (quite spiritual in a sort of way), the atmosphere... even the preaching (these people can say a thousand things with just one song), the relevance of what they had to say, the down-to-earthness of their talking.
I know this is not what most christians have in mind when they talk about 'going to church'. But when church doesn't seem to offer what is expected of it, then some people have to find alternatives. And, these days, alternatives are not hard to find. Which brings me to the main question I wanted to ask: What is 'going to church' supposed to mean? What is church supposed to deliver? What should christians expect (or not expect) from their 'going to church' experience? And, most importantly, is it being delivered?
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Here’s my 2 pence:
ReplyDeleteI think the potential for community, service, and hospitality are of great importance in the ‘going to church’ experience. It’s about giving and receiving, where my personal preference is not as important as my concern for my sister or brother; and I hope that others can take this risk as well. In this sense, church I see going to church as a counter-cultural or even anti-consumerist act (a bit like picture in Acts 4:32, or even Rom 14:15)? I'm open to the idea that this 'going to church' may not fit w/in the traditional boxes. Nor is this description exhaustive.
By the way, I had a similar experience seeing U2 a couple of years back... I would have loved to repeat that, but not sure I could justify the cost. Luckily tickets sold out in nanoseconds, so I don’t have to deal with the guilt (oh, but with Elbow as an opening act, it would’ve been great). And Foy Vance just sold out. And we’re out of town when Duke Special’s in town. Argh. I did catch Martyn Joseph and Stewart Henderson, which was brilliant.
We’ll be in Belfast soon (did we tell you that already?), would be great to see you.
- PW
Hey PW!
ReplyDeleteI am not sure how much of Acts's picture might come from the author's wishful thinking (I suspect quite a lot) - but then, this is probably just my cynic mind speaking again. I'm sure if I'd come across more churches where this kind of community is real I would have another point of view.
It'll be great to meet again when you are around (we didn't know about you coming soon). I'm sure we can continue this conversation over a beer or two... ;)