I was just at a congregational church meeting today. It lasted what seemed like forever. It made me thirsty, and I imagined how nice it would be to have a large beverage and a over-sized cup holder in the pew in front of me to hold it. Maybe a tray table could unfold, and a salty snack would make the whole thing more comfortable. Someone mentioned a cooler in each pew, and a BYOB (not bible) policy would be helpful. The meeting would seem shorter. Someone kept immediately seconding any motion proposed. It seemed our ideas could have been proposed and approved, but we didn't mention them. Soon another person got up and people bringing drinks in the sanctuary has been a big and messy problem. Cleaning expenses, and respect shouldn't be taken lightly.
I wonder where the balance is. We need to be sure the environment is welcoming, and not stuffy. If someone in their 20s rolls out of bed and needs some caffeine, and brings a travel mug to church, it's really good that they are there. Should we really post a sign banning their beverage and their habit? On the other hand, spills WILL happen, no doubt. Is the place of worship a special spot that should be clean and different than other spots in the building? I tilt toward a comfortable environment, maybe reinventing the space. If the carpet is the issue, rip it out. Better that people sit on mats, holding coffee, and loving God and each other, than feeling pushed away for something like what they drink. But, compromise is also important. Dialogue, peaceful relationships. The love of God, not agendas.
Who will 2nd that motion?
New Date-FEB 20
13 years ago
2 comments:
I live in PA too and attend a church where the carpet and the decorative arts are sometimes a sacred cow. Not that the place should look like an amusement park at closing time with the beverage refuse but it could be homier. If you come to my house (home) you will be invited to have coffee in my living room. I will join you, espechially as it is so cold currently andsnowy outside, a cup of coffee or cocoa lends some comfort. A cup of comfort and the joy of salvation to me would be comfort and joy, tidings of comfort and joy anyway in a church, the house of God, but sadly not the home. No wonder the Savior was born in a stable, it was humble lowly and you could spill things there and no one would get fussy about it. Peace, Pam
The more I think about it. I think it's a Martha vs. Mary issue, you know Pam? We should all just sit at the feet of Jesus, and rest and listen more, yeah?
Bring on the cocoa and coffee, and sippy cups if needed, whatever. Bring it on!
Lisa
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