A year ago, I completed a season of ministry with a beloved
congregation. It was hard to say goodbye
and I have missed being with them. But they are strong and healthy and have
been joined by new pastors, and I celebrate that!
I have been worshipping at a nearby church where some of my
friends are members. In those early days
of last summer, it was strange to arrive for worship along with everyone else, to search for a parking place, to go in the front door, receive a bulletin that I had not prepared, and find a
place in the pew. People were warm and
welcoming, though, and the place soon began to feel familiar. I quickly came to appreciate the care and the call
present in the preaching. The music was
strong and beautiful. And the commitment
of the church to justice and peace was important to me.
For several months, I continued to come and
go through the front door. Then I joined
the choir. The first time I came to
choir practice at the church, I went as usual to the front door, only to find
it locked. Choir members entered instead
by the door around in back, and so did I.
I’ve continued entering by that back door, not just for choir, but also
on Sunday mornings. I see people in the
parking lot that I am starting to know and we exchange morning
pleasantries. I enjoy the happy
commotion of those who are setting up for coffee hour. I see what new art is displayed. I share conversation with others in the pew
as we wait for the prelude. It has
started to feel like home. And it was the
back door that made the difference. After all, it is the back door where family enters.
Church growth experts rightly point out the importance of a
welcoming presence at the front door when a visitor arrives. But the real
welcome is not just a smile and a greeting.
It is the promise that the back door, as well as the front, is also
open.
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