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The main point of this topic:
I would like to try out a Methodist service some time but since I've never had any exposure to them I'm not sure what to expect. Do I need to dress really nicely? Will I be expected to bring a Bible or hymn book? Will it be ok to not take part of communion?
If you want more background, here is some tangential information:
I'm at a point in my life where I would like to find a church service I feel comfortable in, even though I don't consider myself a Christian. As a kid I was in Southern Baptist and Pentacostal services - you might have called these people "holy rollers". I'm ok with people doing those things, but its not for me. I also have tried the non-denominational churches that are popular right now, and while I like how active they are sometimes in the community I'm not comfortable with the entertainment format of their services. I went to a Church of Christ and I liked how intense they were about reading scripture, but I felt they were too rigid for me. I also don't believe in the infallibility of the Bible itself, so that puts me at odds with CoC. I've never attended Catholic Mass, but I really respect a lot of the Catholics I've been around. My problem with Catholocism is what I consider idolatry within their religion. So again I have a fundamental belief that puts me at odds with that flavor of Christianity as well.
Disclaimer:
Please note that I don't wish to debate anybody on the merits of my beliefs nor is it my intention to put anybody down for theirs. Its just that what is working for other people hasn't been working for me. I desire a relationship with a God, but I haven't been able to and I'm simply looking for a Church environment that can help me get into that relationship.
Just go and see for yourself. Don't worry about bibles. They have them. Don't worry about communion. Not everybody takes it. Only you can find the church you are comfortable with. Don't rely on what posters on the internet say.
Just go and see for yourself. Don't worry about bibles. They have them. Don't worry about communion. Not everybody takes it. Only you can find the church you are comfortable with. Don't rely on what posters on the internet say.
Find out for yourself.
That's sensible advice. I might add all the main denominations and many individual churches have websites. Yet it is still best to visit and find out if you're comfortable there.
The main point of this topic:
I would like to try out a Methodist service some time but since I've never had any exposure to them I'm not sure what to expect. Do I need to dress really nicely? Will I be expected to bring a Bible or hymn book? Will it be ok to not take part of communion?
If you want more background, here is some tangential information:
I'm at a point in my life where I would like to find a church service I feel comfortable in, even though I don't consider myself a Christian. As a kid I was in Southern Baptist and Pentacostal services - you might have called these people "holy rollers". I'm ok with people doing those things, but its not for me. I also have tried the non-denominational churches that are popular right now, and while I like how active they are sometimes in the community I'm not comfortable with the entertainment format of their services. I went to a Church of Christ and I liked how intense they were about reading scripture, but I felt they were too rigid for me. I also don't believe in the infallibility of the Bible itself, so that puts me at odds with CoC. I've never attended Catholic Mass, but I really respect a lot of the Catholics I've been around. My problem with Catholocism is what I consider idolatry within their religion. So again I have a fundamental belief that puts me at odds with that flavor of Christianity as well.
Disclaimer:
Please note that I don't wish to debate anybody on the merits of my beliefs nor is it my intention to put anybody down for theirs. Its just that what is working for other people hasn't been working for me. I desire a relationship with a God, but I haven't been able to and I'm simply looking for a Church environment that can help me get into that relationship.
You are a perfect fit for the Catholic Church. I say so because you are not a Sola Scriptura bible literalist. and that qualifies you immensely for the RCC.
Catholics are not pagan and they do not worship statues. You have been deceived by your ministers.
Go to mass and at the end look for the priest. Tell him you are interested and he will make arrangements for you to take the RCIA. There is no pressure of any kind and you will finally return HOME to the mother church.
Personally I find the Methodists to be the most welcoming, non-judgemental and loving of all mainstream Christians.
I think it would be VERY unusual for anyone of another faith, or no faith, to be "uncomfortable" in one of their services.
I've worked with both a Methodist and Wesleyan church on some projects. You're right lovesMountains, plus both are very accommodating, unpretentious, unassuming and willing to help when called upon.
The main point of this topic:
I would like to try out a Methodist service some time but since I've never had any exposure to them I'm not sure what to expect. Do I need to dress really nicely? Will I be expected to bring a Bible or hymn book? Will it be ok to not take part of communion?
If you want more background, here is some tangential information:
I'm at a point in my life where I would like to find a church service I feel comfortable in, even though I don't consider myself a Christian. As a kid I was in Southern Baptist and Pentacostal services - you might have called these people "holy rollers". I'm ok with people doing those things, but its not for me. I also have tried the non-denominational churches that are popular right now, and while I like how active they are sometimes in the community I'm not comfortable with the entertainment format of their services. I went to a Church of Christ and I liked how intense they were about reading scripture, but I felt they were too rigid for me. I also don't believe in the infallibility of the Bible itself, so that puts me at odds with CoC. I've never attended Catholic Mass, but I really respect a lot of the Catholics I've been around. My problem with Catholocism is what I consider idolatry within their religion. So again I have a fundamental belief that puts me at odds with that flavor of Christianity as well.
Disclaimer:
Please note that I don't wish to debate anybody on the merits of my beliefs nor is it my intention to put anybody down for theirs. Its just that what is working for other people hasn't been working for me. I desire a relationship with a God, but I haven't been able to and I'm simply looking for a Church environment that can help me get into that relationship.
Here to help, not debate and give you some insight as to what to expect at a United Methodist Church service. (I can't help you when it comes to Free Methodist or other Methodist denominations)
For the purpose of this post, I am addressing the United Methodist Church, the largest Methodist body in the United States.
1. There is a lot of variety in the Methodist Church. Most are fairly moderate in ideology and in politics. You will find a diversity of beliefs at many Methodist churches.
2. In general the service is one hour long and I could describe it as casually liturgical. Usually the Lord's Prayer is recited. Usually no other creeds are recited.
3. Hymns vary from all traditional to mostly praise songs or contemporary music. Many is my area are a mixture of the two. Many standard hymns that are in use in Protestant churches to this day were penned by Charles Wesley, the brother of the founder of Methodism, John Wesley.
4. Attire varies as to region and taste in your area. Again think moderation. If you are a male, you can't go wrong with Dockers and a polo shirt of golf shirt. If you are a woman, dressier slacks or a skirt and top. Business casual. You may find extremes such as people dressed up with ties and suits or women who look like it's Easter Sunday - on the other side, jeans and tea shirts.
Mostly somewhere in between, but I have seen all of the above. No one cares. In a good way.
5. You do not need to take a Bible with you. There is one in the rack in front of the pew. You can take one if you wish.
6. Communion is offered once a month on the first Sunday.
7. Membership can be by Profession of Faith or transfer of records. You are not required to be confirmed as you would in a "high church" such as the Episcopal Church.
8. The United Methodist Church is a combination of Evangelical and Liturgical traditions. Their motto is "Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors".
Blessings!
Sheena12
I happen to think that you will fit in well.
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