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Visiting Churches

Reflecting on Church #21: A Unique Church Service

Sounding the Shofar at Church

With our journey of visiting fifty-two churches over, I can reflect more on the complete experience. Today, I’ll add to my thoughts about Church #21.

Of all the 52 churches we visited, this one deviated the most from current church practices. It was a unique church service and a memorable one too.

They used a shofar to start the service. It was loud, awe-inspiring, and a worshipful opening to our time together.

52 Churches: A Yearlong Journey Encountering God, His Church, and Our Common Faith

The teaching included interaction, so that true dialogue could take place between the minister and those of us gathered. This allowed for discussion, as well as being able to ask questions.

At the conclusion of the message, we spent time truly worshiping in God’s presence. And afterward we enjoyed extended community.

We had a most memorable time there. God was present. We worshiped him in Spirit and in truth. And we connected with each other after the service.

I suspect this version of church is more in line with what the early church practiced when they met together, spurring each other on and encouraging one another (see Hebrews 10:24-25).

This faith community had a unique church service, which is sad, because it should be the norm at every church, every Sunday.

[See my reflections about Church #20 and Church #22 or start with Church #1.]

My wife and I visited a different Christian Church every Sunday for a year. This is our story. Get your copy of 52 Churches today, available in ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook.

Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.

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