I grew up in the Bible Belt where, more often than not, everyone you knew subscribed to some version of Christianity. The concept of God is not new to me but like many I wasn’t always as faithful as I should have been. After moving to Illinois, finding a church where everything seemed right wasn’t easy. Mike and I tried a few but after the twins came… going anywhere proved too difficult for us. Finally, I couldn’t stand not going to church any longer so we began attending a local church for the convenience it would offer, hoping that we’d also form some relationships that would help sustain us….two overwhelmed parents of three very small children with no family to lean on. I really feel we gave it our best shot there but ultimately we could not stay. Attending this church, we encountered people who greeted us politely but went no further in getting to know us. I heard the minister espouse political party talking points on Sunday morning and I was in awe that no one there seemed to mind. Hanging on still, I turned to the music for inspiration but found that profoundly lacking. The final straw was on Christmas Eve–when hearts and minds are turned to God in celebration of the birth of a Savior–our pastor did not embrace this message but opted for one of politics. We had come there seeking God and family in Christ, and while I will not say He wasn’t there, I can say we didn’t find Him there. This experience had a somewhat lasting effect on our family. Our daughter was confused when we left as she was only 5 and couldn’t understand. I promised her someday I’d be able to explain it to her…
Looking forward to part 2…