Sermon styles and politics.
Jul 1st, 2008 |
This past Sunday, we had a time of response following my meditation. Some people loved it, some did not. One person who didn’t like it sent an email, and our exchange gave me a chance to express why we do things the way we do. I thought it would be fun to share (permission has been asked and given, of course).
First I’ll post the initial letter. My response will come tomorrow. (This letter is an edited version, so that it remains anonymous.)
Dear Drew,
Call me “old fashioned”but, I have to say that I did not care for the format of today’s service. I do not believe a worship service should be conducted as an open forum. I know you like to have the congregation participate in some way, but I think you went overboard today.
In most cases, I just grit my teeth when this happens and accept that this is something you believe contributes to our worship of God. There is always the danger that things will get out of hand but, in most cases, you have been able to control things.
Today was an exception - one I hope will never recur. I particularly object to political pronouncements. There may be a place for this in discussion groups that participants voluntarily attend but I do not think that Sunday mornings in our sanctuary is the time or place.
If people wish to comment, they can do it after worship in the library as you would in the winter bible study.
A minor comment is that people who do not use a microphone might not be heard by those sitting in the way back, or in the choir loft.
When I attend a worship service, I want to hear “the word” and reflect on what has been said, privately. I’m not interested in hearing what other folks have to say. Does that mean I’m closing my mind to other opinions?
Yes it does. You are our worship leader and I want to hear what you have to say. Almost with out exception, I leave the service feeling that I was given something I needed to hear. Because of the long period of comments, I didn’t feel that today.
Drew, you’re the best thing that’s happened to Lafayette in a long time. These comments do not alter my opinion one bit!
One final note. I love getting emails like this! And not only because the criticism is couched in compliments, but because direct communication is always the best way to handle anything.
Consider how you would respond (and share it in a comment, if you would like). Other things I would like to know: How do the rest of you feel about time to respond verbally in worship? How do you believe we should handle politics, and political issues in worship?
My response will come tomorrow.