I’ve read books about emergent churches, but I’ve never been to one. At this church, the church leaders want to serve this underserved neighborhood: the poorest and least safe, crime-laden and hopeless.
Consider these four discussion questions about Church 54.
1. They meet at 5:30 p.m. The plan is to share a meal, offer a brief teaching, and go for a prayer walk in the neighborhood.
How open are we to go to church Sunday evening instead of Sunday morning?
2. My wife, Candy, asks what food to bring. As visitors, they’d forgive us if we showed up empty-handed, but during 52 Churches we did our share of mooching.
How open are we to include people in our potluck who have nothing to contribute?
3. Our leader says that sharing a meal is Communion. As we eat and drink together, we do so to remember Jesus.
How open are we to embrace Communion as a meal and a meal as Communion?
4. The sanctuary lights remain off, with mood lighting taking their place. It provides a peaceful, subdued setting. Some women dance in the back with graceful movement.
What role can we let dance play in our worship experience?
May we remember Jesus in all that we do at church, at home, at work, with family, and throughout our lives.
[Read about Church 53, Church 55, or start at the beginning of our journey.]
If you feel it’s time to move from the sidelines and get into the game, The More Than 52 Churches Workbook provides the plan to get you there.
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.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.