Question: Why all this emphasis on going to church? I believe in God, but am not a fan of organized religion. Why should going to a faith institution be something to consider? Why Go to Church
Dear Why Go to Church,
From my own perspective, I do not believe that going to church or another faith group is essential. I believe that God loves us right where we are. I also believe we cannot compact God into any religion. To me my faith calls me to live out my vows to follow Jesus and to love all others, respecting the dignity of every human being. Having the support of a faith community helps me to do this; it is also a way for me to nurture my relationship with God.
Considering a faith community can help others as well. I need to remember that if a certain faith group treats me or anyone else with less than full dignity and inclusion I am better off going somewhere else and I would suggest others do the same.
Rev. Dina Fulgoni
St. Luke’s of the Mountains
Dear Why Go to Church,
As Christians, our salvation is not based on works. It is based on our declaration and our belief. Romans 10:9 tells us, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (NIV) Does one “need” to go to church to be saved? The answer is no. Our salvation is not legalistic.
Hypothetically, if we end up on a deserted island there is obviously not a church community. Hence the word “deserted.” Yet we can still have a relationship with our God. We pray and praise Him. The fact that there is not a church has nothing to do with our salvation.
So what are some reasons to go to church?
The answers are both very practical and spiritual.
We all know life can be very difficult. There are times when we need help, support and community to help us in life – and our faith. We need prayer and encouragement. The contents of the Bible are not only to guide us to know Christ as our Lord and Savior: They are to provide us with guidelines to protect, prosper, direct and bless us.
This is why Hebrews 10.24-25 tells us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (NIV) When, not if, we go through difficult times or a major crisis, our hope can be obliterated. We may feel abandoned by God when we find ourselves in situations where we see no way out. Then our faith in God may be challenged. These are human emotions. We are encouraged to meet together for these reasons.
Certain behaviors and habits help us grow in our relationship with Christ. The decision to fellowship within a church can change our mental health (examples are depression or anxiety) and our spiritual health (hope and faith). Aside from religion, community is proven to enhance our mental health and outlook in life – pulling us through some very tough or painful situations.
Church itself, as a building, does not bring salvation. God encourages us to attend to bless us, give us a support system – and to get through this complicated human existence.
The Reverend Kimberlie Zakarian, LMFT