Bye Bye

I went to church again today at Green Valley Presbyterian. Dr Harper had a death in his family. Apparently the #2 guy was out too so some other guy ran the service. The fill in did an ok job - he readily admitted he was NOT a pastor but when he said the word "testimony" I almost turned around and walked out. It was simply a word choice but to me that conjures up an ignorant image of southern tent revivals à la Steve Martin in Leap Of Faith. But I sat thru it, tried to appreciate the fact that this middle aged high school teacher stepped in at the last minute, and bit my tongue.

Since it was Mother's Day I got a gift. A Green Vally Presbyterian Church pen. I'm not a mom but apparently the mere fact that I have a womb qualifies me to receive one. How very inclusive of them - very Presbyterian.

All I can say is thank God this wasn't my first service there - or it would have been Bye Bye for me. As it stands I'll be back next Sunday. I'm not sure it's doing anything for my soul but my head seems a bit clearer after I spend an hour listening to someone else talk about the possibilities of life. 

Sunday Morning

Went to church again this gorgeous Sunday Morning. I liked listening to Dr. Harper last week at Green Valley Presbyterian so I gave it another shot. Smart, not preahy - no electric guitars or tambourines. I'm 2-0 since Easter. Oh how my parents would be proud.

I walked in, sat on the right side this time and saw the communion on the table. I can't even remember the last time I had communion. I was thankful to see that they did it the same way as at home. I'm sure every Presbytery does it pretty much the same. Makes sense. Consistency.

Today's service was exactly what I needed. Thoughtful and calming.

When I walked out Dr. Harper shook my hand and said, "Your expressions give me encouragement." Huh? It took me so off guard that my only comeback was to stammer, pat him on the arm and say, "You're welcome." It was kind of comical actually. But for some reason I liked that he actually noticed me sitting alone near the back. Maybe it's a sign. Or maybe I'm just an obnoxious manipulative scumbag that seeks attention from everyone, including the pastor. Let's pray it was a sign...