My wife and I moved to a new community a year ago. In our old city, we attended a very popular mega church, Ginghamsburg UMC. We loved it for a variety of reasons. Probably one of the biggest reasons was we could duck in, worship, leave and not have to worry about the regular church drama.
I set some criteria I expected in finding a place to worship in our new community:
1) I wanted to attend church close to home. I did not want to drive across town to attend the trendy church. I wanted to drive 10-minutes and build relationships with Believers in my community.
2) The style of worship didn't really matter to me. As long as it was somewhat quality. I am a musician and I just can't sit through "bad" music: high church or contemporary.
3) I no longer wish to be yelled at. I want to be taught. I want to interact. I want my opinion to be respected. I will no longer sit under anyone who tries to change people. That is God's job, not man's. And, who is any person to think they are better than the next person and have the right to try to change them? That is pride personified in the shroud of religion.
4) I have no desire to attend a "spirit-filled" church. That maybe a shocker to those who know me. But, I am over the drama that environment brings. My experience as a Spirit-filled believer is a real experience. However, it is not a requirement to have a relationship with Christ. I try to respect my Spirit-filled brothers and sisters in Christ. But, attending that circle of churches has no appeal for me.
5) I wish to be in a fellowship of people that are real, genuine and and non-judgmental.
I'm not sure, but I think we may have found the church. So, many of you keep my family in your thoughts and prayers. I thank you for that. And, please keep them up!
Many blessings,
Mike
