I was gonna blog on Sunday, but I'm a very impatient person. And it's more convenient to post now since it kinda ties in with some of the things Amy just posted about.
So for the past 2 weeks, I've been to different churches (Ottawa Chinese Bible Church & Ottawa Chinese Alliance Church). And I'm going to another one on Sunday too, but anyway. The point of "church-hopping" is to try to get a feel for "the right" church. So far, this has not been an easy task. What makes a church "right" for me? I mean that as a serious question! It's hard to prioritize what to look for in a church. Like, at OCBC, I know people from there (from Campus for Christ), so it makes everything easier; but the way service is performed is a bit different that what i'm used to. On the other hand, at OCAC, the church itself is nearly identical to what I'm used to. The whole design (and probably size) is the same as CLBC as well as how sermon is brought about. The only thing is that I found the people a tad unwelcoming. I was with a friend, and we were actually trying to look confused so that someone would just approach us and give us some direction. But no such luck. And as a newcomer (and a slightly antisocial person), it's hard to approach people.
Firstly, I come bearing this message: For a long time, I forgot what it was like to be new. At CLBC during fellowship or whatever, we usually had the volunteers there. I don't think i've ever been the one to try and initiate conversation. Maybe like, after a few weeks. But now that I'm going around to new churches, it's hard to be new! And now, I think it's a lot easier to want to keep going to church when you feel welcome. I understand that it might be hard or uncomfortable to initiate conversation, but it's typically harder for those that don't know anyone else there. So guys, get out there and be welcoming! It's kinda like the first step in outreach.
And secondly, this has so far been a really great experience for me because I was reflecting on my church experiences during this whole process. As I said before, what should i be looking for in a church? You know how we always say "you don't go for the people"? Well, am I gonna go for the building itself just because it reminds me of home?? Maybe I should try a church that's not like what I'm used to? I have no idea yet. But I'll keep you posted.
--Sabrina
(btw, I like to use lyrics for titles. So this one was Home by Sherwood)
Whoa. colourful blog.
Umm...good question. I never had to "choose" which church I go to. :) I guess, I will pray hard, and ask God to lead me to a church that concerns spiritual maturity and growth, a church where people can be nurtured as well as nurture one another. There is no ideal church...so no matter which one, may God use us and shape us to be His church. God bless.
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