I'm really sorry to hear about your dad, Terry.

BRF;1851822 wrote:No.

I think that your post is pretty judgmental.

Then you're reading too much into it. It's an observation, and it seems like Terry took it the right way.

ernest_t_bass;1851825 wrote:Then you're reading too much into it. It's an observation, and it seems like Terry took it the right way.

So be it.

Indeed.

Spock;1851737 wrote:I go pretty much weekly, Wife and I taught Sunday school for years...went on mission trips and all. Church we attend is great for getting kids into service work.

Irony


I attended a small bible college in NEO but shortly after realized it was a mistake.

Haven't been to an actual service (other than a wedding or funeral) in years. I have nothing against those who attend regularly and have a ton of respect for them. I've thought about trying to make an appearance sometime again soon, but haven't had a huge desire. Not sure what I believe so it's tough to make the decision to attend.

Attend pretty much every week.

Serve on committees and volunteer pretty regularly.

Important part of my life and that of my family.

SnotBubbles;1851836 wrote:Haven't been to an actual service (other than a wedding or funeral) in years. I have nothing against those who attend regularly and have a ton of respect for them. I've thought about trying to make an appearance sometime again soon, but haven't had a huge desire. Not sure what I believe so it's tough to make the decision to attend.

I went through a period like that, and then some events occurred in my life that forced me to figure out who I was and what was important to me.
A lot of people get hung up on "religion" and the peculiarities of such. They take things too literally when they need to look beyond the surface of the story and the rituals. They are just signs and guideposts to help you on your journey to spirituality. I look at religion as a "vehicle"....if one doesn't get you where you want to go....take another one that does.

Was raised Catholic. Mass every Sunday. Catechism/CCD every week until I was confirmed. Shortly after that, my parents switched from being Catholic to Lutheran. While it was more "progessive", I found the Lutheran church unsettling. The people were nice but they all seemed a little off. A little too upbeat. A little too interested. I guess I preferred the Catholic church where everybody showed up, was miserable and bored together for an hour and then went their own way.

The last straw (and the last time I have attended church for a non-wedding/funeral/niece baptism) was when I was 16. I was drug there by my parents and the entire hour service was about tithing and your duty to give your money to God and the church. To me, it was a disgusting and shameless cash grab. I told my dad afterwards, "It's your money and do what you want with it but giving them 10% of what you earn is absurd."

I haven't been back to church since and don't think I ever will. I don't even know what I believe at this point. I don't have any issues with people who go and I don't discourage anybody from going but it's just not for me anymore.

I do have a buddy that is very involved in his church and I play in their golf outing that supports the Youth Group's annual mission trip. Money well spent to me. Those kids do some really great work and I'm happy to support them.

Went to church last night to watch my kids in a skit (that my oldest put together). My youngest (7) told me on the way to church that she was so happy that I was going with them. Made me smile, and feel kinda shitty for not going with them. Still hate church.

...I use to attend every Sunday, but the priest who always had a great messsge to give passed away and I haven't found anyone to fill the void. He wasn't like the other money grabbing leaders of the Catholic Church in Youngstown, he preached to love people for who they are, accept their shortcomings and try to live life the best you can.

I doubt there will ever be another like him and I miss him.

Why would (or should) a person go to church?

Hebrews 10:25 says "Don't stop meeting together with other believers, which some people have gotten into the habit of doing. Instead, encourage each other, especially as you see the day drawing near".

Here's a nice article expounding on why Christians should attend church regularly.
https://www.amazingfacts.org/news-and-features/news/item/id/10925/t/do-we-really-need-to-go-to-church

justincredible;1851734 wrote:I suppose I would be considered a heathen. I have nothing against the church, it's just not for me.

Philistine

ernest_t_bass;1851855 wrote:Went to church last night to watch my kids in a skit (that my oldest put together). My youngest (7) told me on the way to church that she was so happy that I was going with them. Made me smile, and feel kinda shitty for not going with them. Still hate church.

Its not about you, it about what the kids want, enjoy and feel important. Seem like the wrong people here are setting the example.

Belly35;1851862 wrote:Its not about you, it about what the kids want, enjoy and feel important. Seem like the wrong people here are setting the example.

LOL. Hey BRF, Belly is Judging me...

Whatever fits your own personal narrative, I suppose.

4cards;1851857 wrote:...I use to attend every Sunday, but the priest who always had a great messsge to give passed away and I haven't found anyone to fill the void. He wasn't like the other money grabbing leaders of the Catholic Church in Youngstown, he preached to love people for who they are, accept their shortcomings and try to live life the best you can.

I doubt there will ever be another like him and I miss him.

Our Church does not ask for weekly donation (pass the basket/plate) we have a offering box at the back of the Church. Not every Sunday is a great message but something alway hits home ...

Belly35;1851859 wrote:Philistine

No, I don't believe this is correct.

Belly35;1851859 wrote:Philistine

justincredible;1851865 wrote:No, I don't believe this is correct.

Definitely a Jainite!

ernest_t_bass;1851863 wrote:LOL. Hey BRF, Belly is Judging me....

LOL! I know.....I cringed a little bit when I read his post.

ernest_t_bass;1851863 wrote:LOL. Hey BRF, Belly is Judging me...

Whatever fits your own personal narrative, I suppose.

Just like a true, modern "christian"!

Heretic;1851878 wrote:Just like a true, modern "christian"!

Stereotype much?

wkfan;1851880 wrote:Stereotype much?

Stereotypes exist for a reason...

Yes, we attend an independent church.

ernest_t_bass;1851887 wrote:Stereotypes exist for a reason...

Agreed....but cannot be applied equally to all.

wkfan;1851880 wrote:Stereotype much?

When it fits.