What excites me about ‘Church with Choices’ is the potential to grow people who will lead a part of worship, whether it be discussion, drama or music; ownership of worship becomes shared. Additionally, the congregation engage with the theme in different ways. Educationalists tell us that people do not all learn in the same way; some learn through seeing, others by hearing and others by feel or touch. A young woman, whose life was stressful, told me she was helped by a quiet prayer session. One group leader, nervous to begin with, felt her confidence had been built up by sharing her artistic gifts. Those reflecting on the recent trust building game were surprised by the ability of young and older to work together. Numerous people have commented that the Bible studies have helped them to explore a passage in greater depth. Perhaps one or two groups haven’t worked so well – that is always a risk – I believe most have engaged people in worship meeting their learning styles and have developed new leadership opportunities in the Church.

So, why is this act of worship not growing in numbers? Are we taking the chance to invite friends to a service they may find more easily accessible? Or are we choosing to absent ourselves? Is this because of uncertainty or fear of ‘doing’ something? If so, many of the congregation stay in the Church for the Bible study – which is very similar to the traditional sermon. Our church membership calls us to share Christ with others and meet regularly to worship God. I pray that you will be encouraged to do so through ‘Church with Choices’.