Jmacfry

I couldn't agree more!

So many opinions, and somehow I agree with them all. I would like to add that in my opinion, education is the best way to combat these situations. I believe that if a mind is tested, it is less likely to become stagnant. The are and always will be people who abuse the system. If they are educated and still abuse the system, at least we can say they know better! So many opinions, and somehow I agree with them all. I would like to add that in my opinion, education is the best way to combat these situations. I believe that if a mind is tested, it is less likely to become stagnant. The are and always will be people who abuse the system. If they are educated and still abuse the system, at least we can say they know better!

As a child I went to a Lutheran Church, the services were 30-45 mins. After the service most of the congregation would head over to the community building for about 30 mins. Everyone would choose a way to help the needy. Some would knit baby blankets while chatting, others would sort donated clothing into sizes. Some would box donated food for the needy. After going to other religious services with friends, I asked our Pastor why our service was so short comparatively. His reply was that we were all busy, including him. A longer service would take away from other works he and the church provided. He told me that if I needed him to clarify anything in the sermon, all I need to do was ask while sorting donations for the needy:) I have not seen many other informal, yet beneficial practices since.

Interesting debate! I love the reference to Dogma. This is an issue I will have to meditate on before posting a firm stance, but at the moment I am leaning towards universal life as a denomination.

Thanks for all of the opinions! As a newly ordained minister, hearing these stories helps me to decide how to proceed.

I would love to be able to view the previous periodicals! I would find it an entertaining way to become closer to a church I have just joined. What's more, I would be happy to pay a "subscription" to do so!

Please accept my sincere condolences

What a wonderful idea!