Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Pow Wow from the Pulpit

Below are my notes from the pew or stadium seating as it is nowadays.

Since, resigning as head of Campus Ministry at Cor Jesu and donning a rose quartz necklace to meditate Shirley McClaine style, I have been on a religious journey. Alas, all religions seem to do little more than draw lines in the proverbial sands of spirituality. However, so many years later with a child in tow, I am again seeking a church that can aid me in guiding my child. Currently, she is encamped in a Catholic pre-school, and I have actively started church hopping. And I've seen some happy campers, a skit, a New Jersey preacher that referred to getting "whacked" - in the mob since of the word, dancing gay jews, and people who make up their own lyrics long after the music has stopped.

So, Bella has attended VBS (vacation bible school) for the past 2 summers with her best friend. And they always put on a sweet little show with singing and joy. I was surprised to learn these people were baptist. Bella was surprised to learn you could do this on a weekly basis. So, to Sunday services we go. I drop her off in the little pre-school room where they will learn about God and color pictures of biblical proportions.

I go upstairs and find a cushy stadium seat in the back. I settle in ready to hear some happy tunes. Alas, it was white, wailing music that seemed to be imported straight from Connecticut. Little did I know that this church is in a lurch, having had their Senior pastor abruptly retire. The entire sermon (which is basically the entire service) was based on transition - it was boring. The visiting pastor went on and on, and then the fire and brimstone erupted. I was torn between dozing and walking out. If I wanted to be bored, I could have gone to a catholic church. At least there I wouldn't be told that God desires to punish the sinners in us, that God is present in hell doling out punishment, that God hates the sin in us. In my opinion, the Baptist God needs some Zoloft or at least a drink to take the edge off. Personally, I look at God as more of a parental character/role - and I would never hate my child or desire to punish her. I desire to love and guide her, and lovingly instruct her. I have no room for abusive relationships in my life and that includes the Baptist God.

But, all ended well we went to IHOP and took a cuddle nap afterwards.

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