Worship

This week I am feeling better, though my body is definitely not behaving itself. But at least I can go to church, and Drew is still willing to go with me. He has never seen Nazareth College before, and we decide to drive around on the campus before service so he can get an idea of the place. They buildings are architecturally distinct, evincing a sort of old world charm without being down at the heels.

After the tour, we head into the chapel at the seminary building, and Drew is greeted by people who know him. I am so pleased that people take time to make him feel at home. We sit quietly waiting for the service to begin, and he leans over and says "There's a LOT of music in the bulletin." It's true. There is a lot of service music, but it all has a purpose. I hope he will see how it fits together.

This is very different from his experiences at more contemporary places where one can be a spectator and watch other people do the singing. Here, you are invited to be a full participant. I know Drew is very interested in theology right now, and Dr. Cullum's sermon provides much food for thought. I know we will have some good discussions later. Drew will grill me, I am sure.

After service, we gather in the fellowship hall over food and coffee (or in my case, water). I introduce Drew around, and once again, people are genuinely interested in him, ask him about his schooling, his plans for college, his interests. Drew, who had only allotted me ten minutes for after service chatting, finds himself drawn in and before you know it, almost an hour has disappeared. He is not bored or feeling left out.

On the way home, he says, "I like smaller churches." I understand. And I agree. It is nice to be part of a caring family. Drew agrees to go with me again next week - after all, there is a picnic scheduled - free food! His one regret is that the service is so early. Now if they would just move it to 1 in the afternoon, I think he would be a convert.