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Pastor's Page

Posted on March 2, 2005 ...

I have noticed over the last few weeks that a number of people in our church are sitting in different parts of the sanctuary than their usual locations. Isn't it interesting how we get accustomed both to sitting in the same place ourselves and to looking for others in their regular pew? Of course, in many churches the most popular place is near the back of the sanctuary. An adage states that we want the back of the church, the front of the bus, and the middle of the road. Some jokingly have claimed that the Holy Spirit is actually stronger on the back pews!

Personally, I prefer the front of the church. My seat on the first row is somewhat out of necessity. I need to be within quick access to the platform when the time comes during worship for me to preach, pray, or share the children's sermon. But even if I were not required to sit there, I would still choose to worship at front of the church.

I am convinced that it is at the front of the church that the music sounds best. The voices of the choir before me and the congregation behind me merge together at the front of the church in their greatest intensity. At times the fullness of the sound is simply chilling!

It is also at the front of the church where the view is best. While no one will ever say that looking at me is 'easy on the eyes,' at least at the front of the church there is no straining to peek between the heads of the people sitting in front of you. Sitting closer also makes it easier to read the text on our projections. And the shorter distance between you and the platform results in less distractions from the focus of worship.

With fewer distractions before you, the front of the sanctuary is also a favorable venue for your children in worship. Because kids can see the platform easier from the front, their attention is better engaged.

So, do you want a different and possibly enhanced experience of worship? Why not follow the theme of a familiar game show and come on down! I will look for you on the front row with me this Sunday!

Pastor PS: Remember, you are invited to join me at Panera Bread Tuesday mornings between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. for coffee and conversation. Questions?