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A NOTE FROM NATHAN
There has been a lot of talk the last several years about those who have left the Church Universal: “They are not coming back.” “Why won't they return?” “What's up with these 'dones'?”
Recently, though, I've been heartened by the many who have stayed, reengaged, or left and altogether returned. Specifically at Sandy Springs Christian Church, I’ve been encouraged by the degree to which YOU have remained present.
So, I posted on social media the question this week, “Why?” If you stayed with your church or The Church, what is your reason(s)? Obviously, the answers were diverse. After all, people have always been part of the Church for different reasons. The exercise, though, was a reminder of the many wonderful reasons for which Church is important to people of faith. While church-life for many, unfortunately, has been a negative experience, I was incredibly pleased to read about how many have been positively impacted by Christian Ministry. Here are just some of the responses I received:
“I have stayed because it was such an important foundation in my youth. Church taught me about being in community during the good and the hard times. It was a place that felt safe and where I could question and wonder with people I trusted about God.”
“I need our church more than it needs me.”
“The people. Not because what they give me (although they do and the hugs are a bonus)); I like being reminded that I have something to offer (even if it’s just a hug).”
“What I missed was community. In our current society, the Church is often the only place where cross generational people can interact. I find that incredibly important.”
“Rejuvenation for the week to come. Solace when distraught. Hope in such a crazy world. Extended family.”
“I go to church because I have seen a lot of hell on earth. Church kept me from becoming cynical to the world. I wanted to leave the church I was at because of ministers, but I stayed because of the people.”
“I need to see other believers. I need to see people I respect. I need sermons, scripture, and prayers. I need to see new members. I need to see the ministry our church provides. I need weekly renewal of faith.”
“In church, we are reminded of forgiveness and how best to make amends. In church we are reminded that faith requires not just trust but action, doing unto others as we would want done unto us. And one more thing that lately has been such a help to me, emotional and tangible support in the face of loss, for which we mistakenly think we are prepared.”
“Yes, I have felt like an outcast at times…but more times than I can count people invited me to the table and made me feel welcome…”
It’s a New Year and we all have resolutions. I hope engaging more deeply, reengaging, or returning to Church is one for you. The Church is not perfect. It’s comprised of humanity. It never will be. And yet, with God’s help, it can be a place in which our relationship with God and one another can grow, generosity can blossom, and faith instilled. At its best, the Church will always give a good reason to stay.
Peace,
Nathan
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