Church Shopping

I promised you that I would post some advice given to me about choosing a church. It has been an elusive journey for the Thorpes and I know that Satan would love to see my family fail. I know there is a church out there for us and this is the year that we are going to find it. If you are in the same boat, I hope this will help you too. I think it is rather valuable information. I wish someone had given it to me about 2.5 years ago. Better late than never. Choosing the right place to worship is very important and has eternal value for you and your family.

1. Choose a church that is close geographically. You will be able to participate in activities, and children will have peers they can relate to.

2. Don't look at the "label" on the door. Unless you have a thing about a denomination, give each church their own try! It's the people, not the denomination - attend where you feel loved and comfortable.

3. Attend where you prefer the style of worship... some like what is called "high church", others, a more casual style. Some like hymns, some like contemporary music, or a blend of both.

4. You need to get to know a church before making a decision... attend at least 3-4 weeks. However, you sometimes know a church is not for you after one!

5. Ask to see the church's constitution and statement of faith. Be sure you agree with it, and that there are not things missing that you want to see in a church's statements. Some churches offer this as a welcome class that meets for a few weeks. (You will learn about membership requirements there too!)

6. Visit the children's department. ask how it is run - who the teachers are, security programs, and curriculum used. Then visit the curriculum's website to see their statement of faith - make sure it lines up with the church's!

7. Most important... is the Bible, the whole counsel of God, preached from the pulpit? Which translation of the Scriptures does the pastor like to use? Be sure it's a good translation, (KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB, RSV, NRSV) not a paraphrase such as The Living Bible or The Message. It's ok to use paraphrases to clarify, but not for the entire passage.

I hope this helps! Pass it on! God bless you if you too are on a journey to find the church that best meets the needs of every member of your household. Finally, don't forget to seek the Lord and ask Him where He wants to place you to utilize the gifts and talents that He has given you. Till we chat again, God bless~

Copyright February 28, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe