Church Shopping

An acquaintance at a networking lunch, during a time of sharing prayer requests, asked for prayer as she searched for a church near her home where she and her children could get involved.

She went on to tell us a horror story about visiting a church near her home. She arrived at the door, and the greeter asked if she was visiting. When she said yes, the greeter said, “Today's probably not a good day to visit. We're baptizing today. You should try back next week.”

“Are you asking me to leave?”

“Yes. It's just not a good week for visitors. Try back next week.”

Sound incredible? I thought so, too. When she posted this on Facebook, she was very careful not to mention the church. She went so far as to not mention that they were having baptism that week, so as not to tip anyone off and inadvertently slander the church. Yet several commented on the post with guesses. And most got it right!

Many of us have our own horror stories about visiting churches. When my wife and I moved to Nashville in the late 90s, we visited several churches. One church asked all the visitors (we were the only ones) to stand. When we didn't stand, the family in front of us began to point! So much for remaining anonymous!

Another church asked the visitors to remain seated, while the rest stood and greeted us. (Do you know what's at eye level when you are seated and everyone else is standing?)

At another, we walked from the car, through a large parking lot, through the front doors, through the Welcome Center (ironic name, but I guess it's more friendly than "Narthex"), to our seats, sat through an entire service, and walked back to our car. In that hour and a half, not a word was spoken to us by anyone.

Nearly 20 years later, we were looking for a new church. I guess you could say we were church shopping. At dinner with some friends, the topic came up.

"What are you guys looking for in a church?"

So I'd like to ask the question: How would you answer? What would you be looking for if you decided to change churches? Comment below and let me know.

And while you're there, share a horror story. It's ok. We won't judge, but we can all learn.