I decided to try and make an early start on my quest for a spiritual home. In other words, I went with Meg to the local ELCA church she joined a year ago or so. Which was interesting in the sense that I had been there with her before, but mostly just to help watch the children. My sense had been that we were going to church as a family, rather than that we were going to join a community in worship.
So on Sunday I tried to focus on the latter (the joining a community in worship bit). And such was not always easy. OK, more accurately, it was nearly impossible much of the time with our 5 and 7 year old, autistic sons making frequent demands for our attention. But in those moments when I could focus on feeling part of a community, it was...fulfilling, is the word I think I'm looking for.
I do not know if this is the church that I will join. I'm not sure how even to pose the questions that would lead to such an answer.
But I do know that something felt right about having a spiritual home, about the sense of togetherness that I felt.
6 comments:
I love the elegance of your distinction, worshiping as a family vs. joining a community...
YES! i'm so glad you made an early start! and grateful for these first positive feelings! give me a call if you want to talk.
Your post has left me smiling...
Your path seems to be straightening out. Good Lcuk.
oh, btw, i realized that you began this at just the right time- this past Sunday was the first Sunday of the new church year, it was the church new year- first Sunday in Advent. if you feel like sticking with it this month i think that would be great!
Steve, what a lovely post... and I agree with Diane about the distinction. It's very subtle but important and real.
Blessings on your seeking!
Mags
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