Church Challenge - Clare Baptist Church

By Janet Strellis

Gillian recently preached on the book of Zachariah and asked us how we could challenge ourselves. I have recently returned to church (small c) and I have found that quite a challenge in itself. I didn’t return straight away when the building opened, as I enjoy the singing and we were only able to do that at home, via Zoom and on mute. I also haven’t wanted to attend in person whilst working in a school amongst lots of people.

So, I was very happy to attend one Sunday, during the summer school holiday and having taken a Lateral Flow Test that morning. It was so lovely to see faces, even with masks you can see smiling eyes and I had a hug or three, which was greatly valued. We were able to sing, albeit with masks, I chatted to lots of people; it was wonderful.

But I had that old cliche dilemma. Where would I sit? During the pandemic Eve moved in to a care home. We still chat at least weekly and love to catch up. But I have sat next to Reg and Eve for probably 15 years so missed them enormously. And if I didn’t sit in my usual spot, where would I go? Would I sit somewhere else, but be in someone else’s spot and be asked to move? Oh yes, it has happened. And I understand why. We all like to sit where we feel comfortable and with our friends.

Paul has been challenging us over the past few months asking what we want church to look like as we return fully. Will we run the same clubs, the same events, the same types of services? In addition, some have felt it is time to step back from some of the roles they had previously undertaken within the church, e.g., coffee rota, Sunday Club etc.

I have attended three services in person over the summer and have sat somewhere different each time. And I wonder, are you ready for a challenge? Will you return and sit in the same seat, or will you try something new? Could you help out with something new?

And if I come and sit with you, please have a chat!

(Photo by Dele Oke on Unsplash)