My wife and I visited 52 churches in a year. Then we attended a bunch more. Here is what we learned.
Discussing Church 32 This church has been homeless for a while, but they moved into their own space last week. Today they celebrate God’s faithfulness on a trying journey with their annual commitment Sunday. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #32: 1. We arrive to learn that it’s commitment Sunday for them, with contribution […]
Discussing Church 31 This church offers a mix of old with new, contemporary with traditional, and public friendliness with personal indifference. As a bonus, they also talk about having a Thanksgiving potluck. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #31: 1. At one point, the leader asks everyone who is able, to kneel. It hurts […]
Discussing Church 30 When Candy asked about the service time, the pastor confirmed what their website said: 10 a.m. When we arrive, they tell us to sit anywhere. After fifty agonizing minutes, they say, “Thanks for coming. The service will start in about ten minutes.” They used the old bait and switch tactic on us. […]
Discussing Church 29 As we pull into the church parking lot, we realize our daughter attended preschool here, many years ago. What we don’t know is that we will experience a laity led service. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #29: 1. We amble in and one woman approaches us and mutters to herself, […]
Discussing Church 28 We learn of this church when we spot their name in a local paper’s church directory. Still, we struggle to confirm their meeting time. We expect to experience a liturgical church service. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #28: 1. We walk inside and a lady shares some basic information about […]
Discussing Church 27 This charismatic church meets in an old, run-down building, originally built for shared-tenant use. It looks abandoned and forms our first impression. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #27: 1. With a half dozen equally accessible doors, we don’t know which one to use. Regular attendees know which entrance to head […]
Discussing the Next Churches I’ve felt like we’re bouncing between a rural churches culture to the west and a more metropolitan vibe to the east. Going forward, we’ll plan our visits by geographic area, not driving distance. Consider these two discussion questions as we look forward to the second half of our adventure: 1. I […]
Discussing Churches 14-26 For the past twenty-six weeks we’ve sought to expand our understanding of how others worship God. Consider these two discussion questions about the second part of our journey: 1. I now realize that church is not about the teaching or music. It’s about community. How can your church foster community and promote […]
Discussing Church 26 A friend tells us about a new African American church. Once again, we’ll be minorities at church. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #26: 1. We arrive ten minutes early and find only four people. At ten o’clock there’s just nine. A few more trickle in. Eventually the service begins. Is […]
Discussing Church 25 The website of this church shows captivating photos of their worship team, implying high energy and an edgy sound. Consider these four discussion questions for Church #25: 1. Everyone wears an adhesive nametag, and we make our own nametags. At some churches members wear permanent nametags and guests use temporary ones, which […]