Why do I attend the Moreno Valley United Methodist Church?

{ June 27th, 2008 }

Sounds like a subject I had to write about a long time ago in school, 1000 words, no plagiarism, typed or in ink.

The answer is both simple and complicated.

The Simple answer is: “It feels like home”. And I guess the complicated answer is also the same… “It feels like home”.

I know it sounds silly to give the same answer twice.

The simple side is that it is comfortable. I am at ease there, my opinions (although not always popular) are listened to. I am a part of something larger than myself, and my opinion counts.

I’ve joined my brother and sister-in-law at a very well known ’super’ church in Orange county boasting of over 20,000 members. The service is a professional production, and it has music worthy of CD sales, performed by Celebrity musicians, TV cameras, tons of greeters, and a world famous pastor and a budget we can only dream about.

I’m sure God was there, it would be impossible to ignore that many people, but I didn’t feel his presence the way I feel it sometimes in our church, when our pastor offers a sermon that sometimes seems meant just for me. Or when he tells a joke that is impossible to understand.

So a part of the complicated answer, “It feels like home” is:
At Moreno Valley United Methodist Church, I am an imperfect human being, in search of a word or two that will provide hope and encouragement for the following week, days, or even the next moment.

I am welcome to participate or simply observe, it is up to me.

Like my family, my friends at Moreno Valley United Methodist Church know my faults, and they accept and love me anyway.

That’s the kind of place I want to be. Where Christians aren’t perfect, but they endeavor to hold each other up. They encourage me to be a better person, at home and in my Christian walk.

So, if you are looking to get lost in the shuffle, then head for the big O.C. But, if you are looking for a home, maybe a new friend, a not so good golf partner, or just to sit quietly and pray.

Then come join us. I’ll save a seat for you!

Ken