What I also like about church people

Yet Another UU blogged about why he likes church people. Yum. What a great idea!

If you’ve read this blog previously, you know that last spring I came to realize a vocation for ministry, one I am hoping to fullfil in a lay capacity. As such I really threw myself into church this year. I’ve been part of the small group ministry program for several years and this year am the chair of the committee. I began a discernment group with others considering ministry. I’m sitting on the intern committee. In November I brought a Compassionate Listening Workshop to the church. All this to say I’m there a lot. And I find myself falling in love with my church. Which I think is why I think YAUU’s post really struck a chord.

This doesn’t mean people aren’t driving me crazy. There are a few. This doesn’t mean I haven’t found myself in difficult situation. There have been many. I feel like my every weakness button has been pushed.

But I also feel like I have been shown so many people’s hearts this fall. Been shown their hopes and worries, their incredible strengths and gifts. I’m falling in love with my church.

YAUU says he likes church people because:

1. They know the value of face-to-face contact
2. They tend to be more courteous to and interested in others
3. They like books
4. They know that showing up is crucial

Le me reiterate #3. As a book geek I really appreciate this quality in others.

And let me add that I like church people because:

1. They are willing to imagine the world more holistically, to see that there are other ways to make it better than just being good consumers — the message that we, as Americans, get at every turn
2. They believe that it does take a village
3. They are willing to wrestle with the big questions
4. They offer me hugs without me having to ask — my hug quotient has risen exponentially

What do you like about church folks?

 

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