This thought was first published in July 2022
Rabbi Jonathan Romain, leader of a Jewish congregation in the south of England, has been quoted as saying:
“I’ve realised that ultimately what draws people to the synagogue is not God, but camaraderie. What they want most is not promises of the afterlife, but warmth, kindness and a sense of community in the here and now. A place where they are welcomed when they come and missed when they are absent.”
Isn’t that so true!
Why do people come to church?
Is it to seek a “hymn sandwich” service, a 20 minute sermon, rituals and traditions of religion OR a place to be loved and heard………….and missed.
Sometimes we forget the purpose of church.
We get bound up in the energy of theology, the Bible, lots of talk about God, etc. When in fact all that is wanted is a loving community, where we’re kind to our neighbour, where burdens can be lifted and where we can be listened to.
In such a place that is where we find God.