Church Testing

So, in our "search for a church" we visited a Lutheran church today. Quite different from what we're used to but I did find it interesting taking part in some new practices. For example, whenever the Pastor prayed, he turned his back toward the audience and faced the cross or the communion table. Not sure which as both were next to each other. Secondly was his robe. Even though this was a "contemporary" service, he still wore his traditional robe.

Also, we took communion which is practiced every week rather than 3 or 4 times a year. I like that. I like being reminded of what Jesus did for us and taking part in the meal that He ordained. Weekly communion was a part of the early church since the beginning but has been reduced to an occasional practice in most churches over the past century. Communion is an important part of the worship experience. I would welcome participating on a weekly basis.

Another aspect to the service was reading prayers. I know people who refuse to read prayers or creeds but really, what's the difference? We sing the words to other peoples songs and we read the Psalms which were someone else's prayers so why not use a prayer or creed that communicates the heart of the worshiper? I understand when it becomes a ritual for rituals sake but the same can be said for not having them.

In all, it was great to experience something new and different. It's so easy to get caught up in the same styles of worship and neglect that there is so much more to Christian worship than what we think it is or should be. While I so desperately want to be in a church and serving, I'm enjoying the opportunity to experience some styles of worship that I would otherwise not. It's tough breaking out of old habits and experiences but I learn so much from it when I do.