Monday, July 16, 2007

The Deacon's Bench

T and I are searching for a church. We haven't been very pro-active, but yesterday we decided to take a trip to a church we've visited before. For the first time we heard the pastors preach (we seemed to have the knack to go during the summer when they are on vacation) and we were impressed. More impressive was what they did afterwards, though. They provided a time they called "The Deacon's Bench" when people (anyone) from the congregation had the opportunity to come up to the front and make comments on what they just heard. It was fascinating. People did not come up and merely say, "Good job, it was interesting". Instead they questioned and asked for more explanation in a particular area, added their own opinions, and even at times doubted what was said. They were critical thinkers and were working together as a congregation. We liked it. Perhaps the search will become a little more pro-active.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

A-
This definitely sounds like your kind of place. I've been thinking more and more about Ty and I needing to either become regulars at one of our old churches or find a new one of our own. Perhaps you have now inspired me to stop thinking and do something :)
-S

Ryan said...

we do something like that at jOURney as well...

we really value that time both as people in leadership and as members...

glad you liked it!

Anonymous said...

I second Ryan. I love that part of Journey. It's unique and it adds a whole different dimension to how "church" is done. Instead of a pastor just preaching, talking, preaching - they teach and then the whole congregation discusses the implications of what was being taught. Very cool.

I hope you find a place where you fit.

Ky • twopretzels.com said...

Oh very good. I definitely think it's tough to find a church where you belong and feel right. Good for you.