Today we returned to somewhere we had worshipped before and enjoyed, but not so much this time (so you will understand the lack of identification).
I really felt for the musicians who, despite the absence of the singers who normally lead the congregation into worship with songs, tried to set the scene by playing the tunes to very well known songs. But did the congregational chatter hush or people sing? Not a hope, nor even when I started singing on my own, much to my daughter's embarrassment!
The (lay) preacher started by entertaining us with stories and questions which kept you on the edge of your seat, if only to see if you were the one he was going to pounce on next with a question. It was a very good example of communicating well with a congregation, no time to switch off or let the concentration lapse, and despite there being nothing specific for the younger generations present it certainly kept their attention. Alas, this was the limit of the good things one could say about this one hour forty minutes long service.
In all the prayers (several slots) the whole congregation were invited to take part, and there was a time for testimony. Though God will have heard the prayers, some we missed because people won't speak up! Alas, the readings were read in a very matter of fact style but then not referred to again in the service. And as for the sermon? Well it didn't start until an hour had elapsed, and I guess it was one day (which we all have) where the plot and message just got lost in rambling encouragement to be better Christians (not a bad theme in itself - but it was a bit circular!). Though I know that I have had my fair share of services that have not gone well, one thing I have learnt is that when it happens you cut your losses - most people won't notice and those that do will be more grateful - rather than trying to keep going in an attempt to recover the situation!
Towards the end of the service during a period of quiet and meditation to respond to the word we had heard a message delivered in tongues but with no interpretation, just the speakers prayer, "Well I hope the person that message was for understands it" - perhaps some of Paul's epistles should be studied to help people understand how tongues should be used in worship!
