The following letter appeared in the Elkhart Truth about a year ago. I post it here again to encourage your consideration to visit a church.
Local Churches Have Much To Offer
As Easter approaches, I would like to take the opportunity to encourage those whose conscience will allow to attend the church of their choice, not only for Easter, but as a weekly experience.
Most churches spend much time each week in preparation for a church service. Choirs meet to rehearse musical selections that they may be precise and pleasant in their performance. Pastors research and compose sermons that they may be informative and inspirational. The attendee is the focus of this preparation and activity. Make a monetary contribution or not, you will receive much cultural, spiritual, and social reward.
Those comfortable with church and worship will have opportunity to renew their spiritual energies.
Those who are curious about faith, religion and the Bible will have a safe arena in which to explore those things. Most churches I have attended will be friendly, yet respect your need for some comfortable “social distance”.
Also, those who do not believe in divinity, God, or spiritual matters, may still gain in ethical insight as most sermons explore such concerns, not solely from a Biblical perspective, but are informed by science and historical experience.
Churches are also great places to be involved in sporting activities and social groups.
Elkhart has many fine churches of many different denominations. Most of them have websites that indicate their service times and activities.
Of course, you are invited to attend my home church ,St. Paul's United Methodist church in Elkhart, on Beardsley.
St. Paul's has two wonderful services. The 8:30 am service is a dynamically traditional service with full choir. The 10:45 service carries a contemporary feel. Both services are led by Dr. Bill Hemmig with excellent preaching.
Attend as your conscience will allow.
And for those who have gained reason not to attend church over the years, I offer my sincerest respect for your conscience.
Mike Settles
Chair, Evangelism Committee
St. Paul's United Methodist Church
Elkhart, on Beardsley.
