Mountain Christian Center

[blue]

I am curious to know if we have any members on here that attend Mountain Christian Center church. I attended there many years ago and was curious who the pastor is now. I'd love to hear your good and bad experiences with this church.

[Yosemite Joy]

I need an alias.

MCC, yikes. I hear bad things about the new pastor and his wife.

[beautiful_mess38]

I used to attend there. Didn't feel comfortable. They were pushing me into the singles group. (like I needed another man after sh*thead experience.) I even told them I wasn't ready. They kept pushing. Made me very uncomfortable.
The pastor never spoke of single moms or divorces.

People just wern't warm enough for me. And the pastor didn't have a sense of humor. Way to serious. It was like he was from another time.

I stopped going and didnt' attend any church for awhile. Now I feel right at home with ylcc.

[BGW]

I attended a funeral there this past spring...it started out as a wonderful celebration of life and suddenly turned into a recruiting ordeal that lasted over an hour. I found it to be quite insulting and in very poor taste.

[Michelle]

I think to choose a church that you would like to attend is for the person to attend themselves only because it will be upon your own feeling and how god touches you and makes you feel at home. But I do attend YlCC and I have never felt at home when walking in to the church. My husband and I attended another church and he liked it and I didn't so it all depends upon how the house of god makes you feel personally. but that is just what I think.
good luck and god bless

[Surfus]

Is it good karma to start bashing a church at Christmas time?
Watch it people you are going to hurt someone’s feelings. A lot of people call MCC home.
therefore I feel talking trash about a church is the same as Talking trash about a person and would be in violation to the Forums rules.

[Dodgergirl]

I don't see any bashing going on. I see the original question asking for good/bad experiences. I also see some varied responses, even the one that could be considered negative didn't go into detail, so, therefore, not bashing...


I won't even go into the good karma part of your post, that is laughable from my side of the road...

JMHO

[Patagoniamaniac]

I'm happy that anyone would attend a church that is heartfelt bible teaching straight from the good book. No church is perfect, and every church has imperfect people. There will always be something you will be unhappy with regardless what church you go to...I love my church...Sierra pines ROCKS!..had to throw that in!..I loved the layed back come as you are atmosphere...

[Michelle]

there is no bashing of churches in anyone post that I see either.....

[Surfus]

I was just being a good mod. and giving a PRE warning before things got out of hand.

[Californee Girl]

I attended MCC briefly in the mid/late 90s. Of course there were the normal problems that I think most places, including churches experience, namely cliques. But I should also add that I was raised not to believe in a God and it was the spirit in that church that made a believer out of me. Im pretty sure they had a youth pastor taking over for some time in between pastors when I was going.

[SheilaMae]

The only way to know is to go, citizen. Anyone who replies with either a rave or a rant is going to be prejudicial to some degree or another by individual personality and experience.

Scripture says that even if no one else were to tell us of God the rocks would cry out and do so, but in today's media saturation and with all the distractions we're overloaded with I think it's mighty hard to hear the rocks, ya know? Even so, be aware principalities and powers will clamor that much louder and stronger to deter you when you make any attempt to draw nearer to God. I'll be praying you'll be encouraged to push on through.

[SheilaMae]

Originally posted by BGW:
I attended a funeral there this past spring...it started out as a wonderful celebration of life and suddenly turned into a recruiting ordeal that lasted over an hour. I found it to be quite insulting and in very poor taste.

BGW - sorry to hear you found it to be 'recruiting' and were offended. What I think you're referring to is called 'Invitation' in a believer's memorial service and is in fact an act of love and mercifullness toward any and all unbelievers present on the part of either the departed or a close member of the family instrumental in planning such a service. Should you be in attendance afterward should I depart from this life here amongst you all, you'll find the same. Some hearts never stop to ponder eternity except when witnessing someone else's move from here to there. This life is sooooooooooo brief and so very fragile and can be and so often is quite ugly and bitter. What a gift to have the opportunity exchange it for eternal paradise! THAT's what Christmas truly is all about.

[BGW]

Originally posted by SheilaMae:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by BGW:
I attended a funeral there this past spring...it started out as a wonderful celebration of life and suddenly turned into a recruiting ordeal that lasted over an hour. I found it to be quite insulting and in very poor taste.

BGW - sorry to hear you found it to be 'recruiting' and were offended. What I think you're referring to is called 'Invitation' in a believer's memorial service and is in fact an act of love and mercifullness toward any and all unbelievers present on the part of either the departed or a close member of the family instrumental in planning such a service. Should you be in attendance afterward should I depart from this life here amongst you all, you'll find the same. Some hearts never stop to ponder eternity except when witnessing someone else's move from here to there. This life is sooooooooooo brief and so very fragile and can be and so often is quite ugly and bitter. What a gift to have the opportunity exchange it for eternal paradise! THAT's what Christmas truly is all about. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

To be fair, this was the second funeral in twenty years that this 'invitation' situation you describe has been included in the service. The first, (which took place in a different town and a different type of church) sadly, I know was not something or anything that had been prearranged as part of the Memorial Service, but something the Ministering Official took upon himself to do. He even stated we should not be there to mourn the passing of the dead, but to welcome Jesus into our lives. He went on to say that funerals are for the living (which they are) and since we were alive we might as well prepare our path for death.

This last one...I have no idea if the family set it up as the person that had passed away was a member of MCC and not the rest of the family.

Since I attend a funeral to celebrate a life, and pay my respects, and say my good-byes...I just find it odd and out of place and not the norm.

Yes, pray, yes, have a service, yes, suggest--if I haven't already--that I invite Jesus into my life. No, don't spend an hour telling me to join the church where the service is being held...etc.

But, that is just me.

[beautiful_mess38]

I totally agree with BGW. We attend funerals for the deceased and the family. Not to join the church.

[Yosemite_Wolf]

I would find it in poor taste if I went to a funeral and the pastor stood for an hour and told me why I should join his church. What If I already have my own church? What if I am of a different faith and happy with it?

We are there for a funeral.. not to be sold on the church.. and if I had to sit through an hour of "why I need to join....." then the next funeral that I had to put together would be held elsewhere... or not in a church at all. (Blech, bad taste in my mouth)

[Patagoniamaniac]

Originally posted by SheilaMae:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by BGW:
I attended a funeral there this past spring...it started out as a wonderful celebration of life and suddenly turned into a recruiting ordeal that lasted over an hour. I found it to be quite insulting and in very poor taste.

BGW - sorry to hear you found it to be 'recruiting' and were offended. What I think you're referring to is called 'Invitation' in a believer's memorial service and is in fact an act of love and mercifullness toward any and all unbelievers present on the part of either the departed or a close member of the family instrumental in planning such a service. Should you be in attendance afterward should I depart from this life here amongst you all, you'll find the same. Some hearts never stop to ponder eternity except when witnessing someone else's move from here to there. This life is sooooooooooo brief and so very fragile and can be and so often is quite ugly and bitter. What a gift to have the opportunity exchange it for eternal paradise! THAT's what Christmas truly is all about. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

well said sheilamae!....

[Red Mule]

My granddaughter attended a service there a week or so ago and said there was a lot of preaching on how they should vote. Not just on the Prop 8 issue, which I know several churches feel the need to take a side, but on the presidential election as well. There is a good likelyhood that she will never return there and I know I will not start.

I know the MCC is not the only church that does this. But, I wonder if these churches realize that when they take sides politically, they take a very real chance that they will also lose many people who might otherwise wish to attend and worship there. I don't mean this as a "bash." I'm just reporting what I was told.

[Yosemite Joy]

I had the same experience in 2004 at Sierra Pines Church. We walked out.

I will also say that MCC hands out newsletter type materials stating the "Christian Way" to vote.

[Red Mule]

I had it happen at my mother's church as well. The only reason I didn't walk out was because I didn't want to indirectly show disrespect for my 86 year old mother.

But, now they have put me in such an uncomfortable position that I will never again be able to join my mother at church.

[blue]

This is why I will not go to church. The people try to push all of their beliefs on you, not just religious. I am voting No on 8. What church up here will accept that? Living in Oakhurst is like living 20+ years in the past.

[Yosemite Joy]

This is why I will not go to church. The people try to push all of their beliefs on you, not just religious. I am voting No on 8. What church up here will accept that? Living in Oakhurst is like living 20+ years in the past.

I know of one. One out of 35 (?) churches in this area.

[dancingqueen]

The Methodist Church in Oakhurst is the only one that I can think of that would not look down on you for stateing that you are voting NO on Prop 8. I am not a member of that church but I believe that they openly accept all people into their congregation. About 20 years ago I went to a commitment ceremony in a Methodist church in Santa Cruz and about 10 years ago I went to one in Carmel. I know several families that worship at our Methodist church in Oakhurst and like it very much. They are very progressive on many issues. They are a wonderful resourse for families in need, doesn't matter if you are a believer or not.

[Yosemite Joy]

The Methodist Church in Oakhurst is the only one that I can think of that would not look down on you for stateing that you are voting NO on Prop 8. I am not a member of that church but I believe that they openly accept all people into their congregation. About 20 years ago I went to a commitment ceremony in a Methodist church in Santa Cruz and about 10 years ago I went to one in Carmel. I know several families that worship at our Methodist church in Oakhurst and like it very much. They are very progressive on many issues. They are a wonderful resourse for families in need, doesn't matter if you are a believer or not.

That's the one. When I was a Christian I attended this church.

[dancingqueen]

I think that I have mentioned before that at one time I volunteered for a local non-profit and was working on establishing a crisis line referal book. I had spoken to the minister at Oakhurst Methodist Church many times regarding what they could do for people in need. He finally just said, when ever you have anyone call the crisis line (never developed) just bring them over to my office or call me and tell me they are on their way. We will help with what ever their needs are. When the referal book was in its final stage just before printing the director of the agency told me I had to take the Methodist church out. When I asked why I was told that if someone comes to them (Methodist church) regarding terminating a pregnancy that they talk to them about ALL of their options. Imagine that. All of their options. You know, just because abortion is not a choice that I would choose for myself does not mean that I can make or pressure, or try to influence someone else to not have an abortion. I know that this non-profit agency does a lot of good in our community but it just was not a right fit for me, so I left.......

[Summer]

Judging from the amt. of cars at MCC today there is a lot of people up here who like that church. The same could be said for Sierra Pines - and that was the 3rd service! Am just curious about some comments on here on what you are looking for. Does anybody have any experience or comments on Positive Living Center? I know nothing about this church, just that is really different from traditional services. How? Seems like there is a church up here for anybody. How special is that?!! I just read a book about a couple who attended a different church each week - no matter what the religion - then went out for brunch afterwards. That sounds like a great idea to me. Exposure to all religions, great discussion afterwards and a happy time to boot (especially if its a champagne brunch)! I don't like "hard sell" churches or fire and brimstone and I really appreciate good music and beautiful videos to go along with it. Reminds us of how wonderful life really is. Although the best pictures are just driving around here in this beautiful area. I don't think you need a church but sometimes its good to have camraderie with like minds. Also, I like the idea of churches helping people out - but not expecting their membership or salvation in return. Is there such a church up here?

[Yosemite Joy]

I have heard wonderful things about the Positive Living Center. Not my thing, but many people who could not find a niche other places, found one there.

[Red Mule]

I have attended both PLC and the Methodist Church. There are many fine people at both, but they are very different in their theology. But, I think most open minded people would be comfortable at one or the other. You just need to visit and judge for yourself.

For myself, I'd like to find a church somewhere between these two. As a Universal Life minister, I'm sometimes tempted to start my own church. But, I'm afraid I'd be committed for talking to myself.

[only1alphafemale]

I have seen it done so many times in many different churches where I attended services, either occasionally or weekly. The ministers / pastors always put a religious *edge* to how one was to vote if they were a true *Christian*, or *if* they were walking in the true light of the Lord, etc. and blah blah blah ! NOT the PLACE IMO !

I didnt agree with them doing it back then, and I DONT agree with that being when I was many years younger, and the older I get the more I *resent* it too~

Fellowship and love of faith is what I seek. Not control, manipulation or any other type of *directional influence/instruction* outside of what I consider to be outside of other than those of what I am seeking, which if I am in church is *spiritual sustenance and fellowship * ~

[yosemitewriter]

Between the McCain supporters and the people who are against Prop 8, there may be enough people to start a NEGATIVE Living Center :-))

[Summer]

I have seen it done so many times in many different churches where I attended services, either occasionally or weekly. The ministers / pastors always put a religious *edge* to how one was to vote if they were a true *Christian*, or *if* they were walking in the true light of the Lord, etc. and blah blah blah ! NOT the PLACE IMO !

I didnt agree with them doing it back then, and I DONT agree with that being when I was many years younger, and the older I get the more I *resent* it too~

Fellowship and love of faith is what I seek. Not control, manipulation or any other type of *directional influence/instruction* outside of what I consider to be outside of other than those of what I am seeking, which if I am in church is *spiritual sustenance and fellowship * ~

AMEN!! (no pun intended). Alpha, your post is exactly what I'm talking about.

[MtnBreeze]

Quote "Between the McCain supporters and the people who are against Prop 8, there may be enough people to start a NEGATIVE Living Center :-))"

hahaha... I always wonder how so called god fearing people have the audacity to judge others on color, religious preference or any other personal things which are of no concern to them. If people truly followed the teachings of Christ they would love their neighbors w/o passing judgement.

[Mysteefied]

I have heard wonderful things about the Positive Living Center. Not my thing, but many people who could not find a niche other places, found one there.

I've been to many of the churches here in the past 9 years I've been here and I recently...a few months ago, started going to the positive living center, now in those few months I've been probably 5 times (I prefer to sleep in on Sundays) but I've found the people to be pleasant, non judgemental, easy to talk to, ect. I like that they don't Preach AT me, or even TO me, they speak to everyone as an equal and those are just my thoughts on it, I Call it the UN-Church. Now if I could just get my butt there more often.

[mary oleary]

As far as churches and voting...was Martin Luther King out of line?

[only1alphafemale]

As far as churches and voting...was Martin Luther King out of line?
As far as him preaching about equality for all? No he wasnt out of line.

However, he wasnt telling me HOW or for WHOM I should vote either~

[dancingqueen]

I think that I have mentioned before that at one time I volunteered for a local non-profit and was working on establishing a crisis line referal book. I had spoken to the minister at Oakhurst Methodist Church many times regarding what they could do for people in need. He finally just said, when ever you have anyone call the crisis line (never developed) just bring them over to my office or call me and tell me they are on their way. We will help with what ever their needs are. When the referal book was in its final stage just before printing the director of the agency told me I had to take the Methodist church out. When I asked why I was told that if someone comes to them (Methodist church) regarding terminating a pregnancy that they talk to them about ALL of their options. Imagine that. All of their options. You know, just because abortion is not a choice that I would choose for myself does not mean that I can make or pressure, or try to influence someone else to not have an abortion. I know that this non-profit agency does a lot of good in our community but it just was not a right fit for me, so I left.......

I would like to apologize to anyone that I may of offened by making this post. The truth is that I really do not know how "all of their choices" are presented to the clients that use this local non-profit agency. I spoke out of turn and for that I am very sorry.

[Kat]

I have attended both PLC and the Methodist Church. There are many fine people at both, but they are very different in their theology. But, I think most open minded people would be comfortable at one or the other. You just need to visit and judge for yourself.

For myself, I'd like to find a church somewhere between these two. As a Universal Life minister, I'm sometimes tempted to start my own church. But, I'm afraid I'd be committed for talking to myself.


I'll go to your church, Red Mule. I have gone to several in Oakhurst and am still finding that i don't fit in. I'm too Northern California, I guess.

Any one have any other comments regarding local churches? Positive or negative?

[only1alphafemale]

I'll go to your church, Red Mule. I have gone to several in Oakhurst and am still finding that i don't fit in. I'm too Northern California, I guess.

Any one have any other comments regarding local churches? Positive or negative?

I dont have anything to offer regarding other local churches, but I just wanted to add my support and say I would also go to Red Mules church ~ :yes:

[Mysteefied]

I have attended both PLC and the Methodist Church. There are many fine people at both, but they are very different in their theology. But, I think most open minded people would be comfortable at one or the other. You just need to visit and judge for yourself.

For myself, I'd like to find a church somewhere between these two. As a Universal Life minister, I'm sometimes tempted to start my own church. But, I'm afraid I'd be committed for talking to myself.

I would totally go!! It's just what we need here! If you start it...we will come!

[kellieflan]

We love the PLC - though it needs more young kids - and I would love to meet Red Mule anywhere he is speaking - Ron, you would not be talking to youself!

[mary oleary]

Judging from the amt. of cars at MCC today there is a lot of people up here who like that church. The same could be said for Sierra Pines - and that was the 3rd service! Am just curious about some comments on here on what you are looking for. Does anybody have any experience or comments on Positive Living Center? I know nothing about this church, just that is really different from traditional services. How? Seems like there is a church up here for anybody. How special is that?!! I just read a book about a couple who attended a different church each week - no matter what the religion - then went out for brunch afterwards. That sounds like a great idea to me. Exposure to all religions, great discussion afterwards and a happy time to boot (especially if its a champagne brunch)! I don't like "hard sell" churches or fire and brimstone and I really appreciate good music and beautiful videos to go along with it. Reminds us of how wonderful life really is. Although the best pictures are just driving around here in this beautiful area. I don't think you need a church but sometimes its good to have camraderie with like minds. Also, I like the idea of churches helping people out - but not expecting their membership or salvation in return. Is there such a church up here?

My understanding of the Positive Living Center is that it is a "mind science" religious organization.

If so, then it is incompatible with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

It sounds like "church" is merely a social function for you, so you'd probably like it. But the Mind science( create your own reality through the power of positive thought) is is more than just social club, and can become a mental trap.

For people who desire forgiveness and salvation, the Positive Living Center is not the church for you.

[kellieflan]

Accurate information about the Positive Living Center can be found under the new thread with the same name PLC. Thanks!
Kellie

[Edana]

Ive been visiting a different church every week trying to find the right one for me and mine. I have a list of things that are important to me and I grade them according to that. I take notes so that at the end of my experiment I can compare and know that Im joining the right one for me. So far Ive visited about half the churches in town. The ones that really stuck out to me were the Ahwahnee Chapel (classic small town church, very friendly ppl), Yosemite New Life Church of the Nazarene (new church above Raleys, off to a great start), Journey Vineyard Fellowship (in the highschool theater, almost entirely run by teenagers, very touching), and the Oakhurst Evangelical Free Church. These are just the ones that have appealed to me the most in case anyone else is interested.

[Yosemite Joy]

My understanding of the Positive Living Center is that it is a "mind science" religious organization.

If so, then it is incompatible with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

It sounds like "church" is merely a social function for you, so you'd probably like it. But the Mind science( create your own reality through the power of positive thought) is is more than just social club, and can become a mental trap.

For people who desire forgiveness and salvation, the Positive Living Center is not the church for you.


aka You'll die forever in the LAKE OF FIRE!

[mary oleary]

As far as him preaching about equality for all? No he wasnt out of line.

However, he wasnt telling me HOW or for WHOM I should vote either~


"King always stressed the importance of the ballot. He argued that once all African Americans had the vote they would become an important political force. Although they were a minority, once the vote was organized, they could determine the result of presidential and state elections. This was illustrated by the African American support for John F. Kennedy that helped give him a narrow victory in the 1960 election. "

Martin Luther King Jr. Was a politically active and outspoken pastor.
Perhaps he didn't offend you because you agree with him. No doubt his leadership was needed and his pulpit was a powerful force for good.

Was he wrong to bring politics into the pulpit?

[mary oleary]

aka You'll die forever in the LAKE OF FIRE!

whoa nellie! That was a bit of a leap... It appears you have some baggage in this area? :(

PLC doesn't believe in forgiveness or salvation...and some people are seeking forgiveness and salvation.

That's all I said... no lake of fire mentioned...

:angel:

[Summer]

[It sounds like "church" is merely a social function for you, so you'd probably like it. But the Mind science( create your own reality through the power of positive thought) is is more than just social club, and can become a mental trap.

For people who desire forgiveness and salvation, the Positive Living Center is not the church for you.[/QUOTE]

No no no mary, in no way do I consider church a merely social function. I have not attended church in 30+ yrs. I attended solely for the sake of someone else and found out maybe I liked it. But during this time "church" has changed drastically! I found it wonderful that you didn't have to "dress up", the music was incredible and the participation was exemplary. Every day I am finding people who are happy and exhilerated in their relilgion. I am merely a "traveler" and checking out different relilgions. Just a sojourner so to speak. I believe in God and Jesus, just am skeptical about organized religion. That's why I brought up the book about the gay couple who explored a different church every week and had a good time doing it. What's so bad about that? When I desire forgiveness and salvation it will be because I have explored other faiths and believe in what I am doing. I think basic love and respect for all people is not a bad thing. And I don't think you need to go to church to do that. In fact, I have had a relationship with our heavenly father for awhile now and he said I can talk to him wherever I am at the moment. On second thought, maybe church IS a social thing. You interact with other people toward a good purpose - and what is wrong with that?! Just some random thoughts from me. I am by no far an authority on church. Just looking for answers.

[kellieflan]

[QUOTE= Mary O'Leary...PLC doesn't believe in forgiveness or salvation...and some people are seeking forgiveness and salvation.[/QUOTE]

I think it depends on the definition of forgiveness or salvation, and I thought you agreed to stay out of other peoples' ponds? I feel you are, yourself, taking a big leap in making inaccurate assumptions about the PLC, and willing/respected posters on this thread.

From www.allaboutgod.com: FORGIVENESS "A definition for forgiveness could be -- giving up my right to hurt you, for hurting me. It is impossible to live on this ... planet without getting hurt, offended, misunderstood, lied to, and rejected. Learning how to respond properly is one of the basics of the Christian life."

At PLC the subject of forgiveness is common.

From www.merriamwebster.com: SALVATION "Liberation from ignorance or illusion."

If one really needs to seek forgiveness and salvation, then by all means: seek it. Please do not disparage others' belief in your attempt to do so.

So while you did not post of PLC on the PLC thread, you incorrectly stated PLC doctrine on this site. Sneaky, when I was trying to not be snarky!

[kellieflan]

Accurate information about the Positive Living Center can be found under the new thread with the same name PLC. Thanks!
Kellie

[only1alphafemale]

"King always stressed the importance of the ballot. He argued that once all African Americans had the vote they would become an important political force. Although they were a minority, once the vote was organized, they could determine the result of presidential and state elections. This was illustrated by the African American support for John F. Kennedy that helped give him a narrow victory in the 1960 election. "

Martin Luther King Jr. Was a politically active and outspoken pastor.
Perhaps he didn't offend you because you agree with him. No doubt his leadership was needed and his pulpit was a powerful force for good.

Was he wrong to bring politics into the pulpit?

The importance of the ballot, is a lot different from what I was referring too. Telling me actually HOW to vote on a proposition and for WHOM I am to vote for? *IS* wrong, and is what I was speaking about.

At which time I will point out the justification and wisdom that was adopted when it was decided long ago by our founding fathers, that should be and needed to be a "Separation of Church and State ".

Martin Luther King, spoke of equality and his "dreams". Those same "dreams" are still as poingnant today, as they were then when he spoke of the black people being a minority, as those equal rights are what I referring to, and the civil rights that all people deserve.


Was he wrong to bring politics to the pulpit? No. He was attempting to gain equality, and NOT deny equality to anyone, such as Prop 8 did. Which I believe is where you pulled the quote of mine you used, to post it over here in this thread? Which has nothing to do with the topic where it was ORIGINALLY POSTED!

[Red Mule]

I'll try to stay on the thread that was started asking about local churches and not get sidetracked...

Regarding local churches: If I chose to worship God and consider how I should treat my fellow man as I walk through the woods alone and you chose to do the same as you sit or kneel within a building built for that purpose and surrounded by many others, we are still both worshiping our God. I suspect that many of us keep our most important spirtual beliefs internal. We can attend any church, or none at all, and still honor those internal values even as we ignore those we may disagree with.

What is different is that a Church IS for fellowship, or as some might describe, "a social club." I know of some people that attend a very traditional local church entirely because of this social aspect. They have found friends and activities they want their family to be a part of, even as they privately disagree with some of the politics they hear. They have decided that church meets enough of they needs to keep attending. So, for now that church meets their needs.

It was also suggested that since Dr. King addressed political issues in his church, there is nothing wrong with churches doing that now. There IS a difference. One, he was preaching the christian value of equality and not inequality.

But beyond that, black church pastors at that time played a different role in the black community for reasons specific to that community. The church was the one institution they controlled and often pastors were among the better gifted and educated leaders in their community. There was no other sufficient political infrastructure for mustering resistance to social and political injustice outside of the local church prior to the late 1960s.

If we are ever in an equivalent situation, then we might be justified for turning our churches into political action groups. But, for now, both sides in these political struggles have enough other places to carry on this fight without driving half the people away from the churches they might otherwise wish to attend.

Or, at least, that is my opinion.

[Yosemite Joy]

whoa nellie! That was a bit of a leap... It appears you have some baggage in this area? :(

PLC doesn't believe in forgiveness or salvation...and some people are seeking forgiveness and salvation.

That's all I said... no lake of fire mentioned...

:angel:

No baggage, I was being facetious.

And are you ready to say that people who do not believe in JESUS CHRIST THE LORD and THE SAVIOUR and are unforgiven are going to heaven? Or would you have the opinion that they are GOING TO HELL (in the aforementioned lake o' fire)? I do not attend PLC, or any other church/place, if I did it would only be for the company, anyway.

I would dare say that ALL CHURCHES are for the "social function" the human "Us against Them".

[Kat]

I thought churches were meant to be social: a gathering of like minded people to worship together.

[nater rater]

Journey Vineyard Fellowship (in the highschool theater, almost entirely run by teenagers, very touching), and the Oakhurst Evangelical Free Church. These are just the ones that have appealed to me the most in case anyone else is interested.
Haha, I am glad we appealed to you...although we may look young we are in our mid to late 20's but thank you for the teenage compliment. My Wife is the Worship leader for the Journey, and she looks 18...thats after 2 kids haha. any ways come and visit again Edna

[HIS_MOM]

Haha, I am glad we appealed to you...although we may look young we are in our mid to late 20's but thank you for the teenage compliment. My Wife is the Worship leader for the Journey, and she looks 18...thats after 2 kids haha. any ways come and visit again Edna

awww i know your wife and you.. and your wifey sings beautifully

[nater rater]

Yeah...You do? I cant tell who you are

[HIS_MOM]

Yeah...You do? I cant tell who you are

ok i will give you a couple clues.. i went to high school with both of you.. we all attended mountain christian center youth group, you know my brothers. if you still dont know pm me and i will tell u

[nater rater]

Oh Ok we know now...Hows your bro doing??