The ideal church would likely be different, obviously, for you than it might be for me, nevertheless, C. Michael Patton references one I'd like to visit:
First, I went to an evangelical high Anglican church. I was wanting to see something a little more traditional. Plus, according to the latest news about red wine and health, I needed a shot of the real thing. It was a rewarding experience. It was also interesting to be at a church that was not to concerned about whether I was there or not. There were no greeters at the door, no one really noticed when I came in, and they did not say anything to me as I left. This is not a criticism, but just an observation. They did not let anything take them away from their reverential service in which things were done in a particular order. Because of this, it was not a primary purpose to fill the pews with guests. If a guest came in, great. They could stay and worship, but they were not going to do back flips and moonwalk for anyone but Christ.
That would definitely be ideal for Mrs. BH and me.
One of the most spiritually rewarding times in my life was when I worked in Manhattan and would make sure I arrived in time to attend Morning Prayers at Trinity Church at the head of Wall Street.
Same thing - I went in, sat down, got out the prayer book, prayed, responded and left. I needed the stability of the "same" thing every day with only the church calendar intruding. I can understand that.
But you still need other people to come beside you and help you with your burdens as you help them with theirs. I'm not sure that can be done in silence and without exchanging conversation or something.
Posted by: Mommynator | Sunday, January 27, 2008 at 09:56 PM