Reflections From Sunday Evenin

Last week I noted that following the capital campaign was a good time to take a few days off. During the past couple of weeks I have been in the office a few times, done a couple of days in meetings and officiated at a funeral service for a friend's family member. Cindy and I have also taken the opportunity to visit a couple of churches these past two Sunday's. It is good to find people gathering to worship in United Methodist Churches in the area. I have heard good preaching. I have experienced meaningful worship. I have been able to join with others in worship. It is my observation that churches are very aware of new people potentially being in their midst. Churches "say" things that note the possibility of visitors being present. Some take further steps to make new people be welcome and find their way. Another observation is that churches are difficult to navigate. In a mega-church it is clearer where people are going. The coffee shop is obvious. The restrooms are well marked. It is clear that a particular door(s)leads to the worship space. Churches like ours are not as clear. A person tends to need a basic understanding of where they are going and what they are looking for. People are great. What to do once you show up is not as clear. Hopefully I can gain some learning from the past couple of weeks. One thing I note is that we do a very good job with hospitality -- and we have opportunities to do even better. There are times when we need people in the parking lot giving direction to those coming at high traffic times. We will make it even clearer where to go when a person steps out of the car and heads to our building for the first time. Once inside I love our people! I would rather be in worship at PWUMC than anywhere. (I am biased but wouldn't you hope I would be!) We will continue to strive to provide an experience that is relevant, meaningful and compelling. It is a joy to serve with you and work with our staff and leadership to offer Christ to our world. It's been a good day (so far). I hope you've had a good day too. -- Now for a couple of other things. Chiefs - Broncos. My heart says Chiefs, Chiefs, Chiefs!!! but...at Denver - Peyton Manning. Enjoy the game and see what happens. On a much more significant note - Baker University finished their season with a 10-1 record and will head to the N.A.I.A. playoffs next week. I got to see their game yesterday. There is not quite as much hype over small college football but the kids show up and play. They seem to have a good time. The games take about 2 and 1/2 hours (instead of the 3-4 when TV is involved). All in all it is a good experience. It makes me ready to come back for more. Well...that is what we seek to create in church. A great experience and something that people want to come back for more. steve