The Great New Church Search

[EagerBeaver]

So after a ton of prayer and rumination I have come to a conclusion that the church I currently attend (James River Assembly in Ozark, MO) is just not a good fit for me.

(If you need the reasons why, you can see them on my website)

Basically I am really not adapting well to the megachurch way of life as I have been raised COGOP through and through, and really miss the sense of community and real love felt in a smaller church. Plus, believe it or not, I'm more of a minimalist and traditionalist when it comes to church -- less is more, I'm not into the flashy announcements and everyone up on stage wearing the latest trends and trying to project a good "image."

Now here's the thing, I don't have any gripes against JRA but I just don't fit well there and I don't feel led to continue. But where do I go from here? Do I go back to my local COGOP and try to continue where I left off (I'd be perfectly fine with starting over actually) or do I search for a new church, even though I'm worn out and really don't want to have to do everything involved with searching for a new church. I don't want to become a church hopper that starts up these ghost friendships where you know the people for awhile and then you never really see em outside of church at all.

The only thing that matters at this part is getting my soul fed and involving myself in a place that really needs someone to serve. JRA says they need workers and I don't doubt that for a fact but I believe they're siphoning off people from other churches whose service in a smaller church would have a greater impact. This fact leads me to believe I sold out by attending a megachurch and I'm kinda ashamed of that.

I am kinda at a crossroads and I guess I posted this thread to gauge some opinions and get some counsel on the situation. Prayers would be appreciated as well!

[Jennifer Smith]

We are kind of in the same place right now... every time we visit First Assembly, the pastor takes us out to eat, which is so kind, and completely appreciated by my husband! (I think it is good for them to get togeher and they have some things in common.)
But, we want to obey God's will first and foremost. I like to think I'm past "style" issues but I guess that is a part of all us... The main thing is to obey God's will, I believe He does have a place for each one of us... finding it can be the hard part, but if we ask, seek, and we're open it will become apparent to us. I will pray for you in your search.

[Karen]

Sometimes, I think that God wants to be alone with us, with the rest of the world and influences shut out so that we can only hear him. If you pray and seek his guidance, he will lead you to the place he wants you to be when the time is right. Just pray, don't be in a hurry or stess about it.

[dolfan]

You haven't given this a lick of thought, have you Beav?

We're in the same boat. Hang in there and do what you know is right. It'll open up in time.

[EagerBeaver]

You haven't given this a lick of thought, have you Beav?

We're in the same boat. Hang in there and do what you know is right. It'll open up in time.

Wanna co-"pastor" a new church?

[jessea]

Beav,

I don't know what the circumstance was that lead you to leave your local COGOP. I would give this advice not matter what church you had left. I suggest going back to your local COGOP and see how you are received.

If you are welcomed back, that doesn't mean you walk right into what you were doing before, but the people show a genuine happiness to have you back, it would give you a chance to make sure that what ever ministry opportunity may have been there was not prematurely aborted when you left.

I have seen people leave our church over the years just before there was breakthrough of some kind regarding ministry or relationships.

I've come to realize that people don't quit churches, they quit people. Like I said, I don't know your circumstances, but that my 2 cents worth. I am not saying people should never leave a church. If there is obvious disregard for the truth, then I would leave.

I just believe that one of the biggest test of faith, is a local body of believers being long suffering enough to grow together. Often times, it takes longer for Godly character to catch up with people's talents or gifts.

[Shepherd]

I could suggest the end of your search for a friendly church.