Search for a Church

You may remember last year how I discussed our search for a new church. I needed something new, something that was good for all three members of my family, a place that would appeal to all of us.

Last year I visited two new churches, didn't really get that feeling I was looking for. I wanted to feel like I was the girl ready to "Say Yes to the Dress" - that this was "the one".

Sunday, Mike, Walker and I piled into the car to visit another "new church". I had been talking to Walker about this place all week, and he was excited about going. I was nervous about how Mike would react. He gets picky about church and always has an opinion.

It was an experience like no other.

New Hope Church in Durham, NC was named as the 10th fastest growing church in America last summer, and it's in my back yard.

It's not your traditional church, but that's what attracts me to it. In the world of video games, 3-D movies and iPods, service at the church I grew up in is exactly the same as it was 30, 50 years ago. And you may think that church shouldn't have to be fun and exciting to attract people, but why not? If it works, then I say go for it.

And that's what this church does. It's like a concert when you walk in. Live music, smoke, flashing lights. The children have their own separate areas to go depending on age, called Hopetown, where they get a special message.

Pastor Benji says dude and cool, and commands the attention of every person in that place. His sermon was based in scripture, and he often referred back to the verses in the Bible. He walked back and forth on the stage in his jeans and retro glasses, and I was captivated by his words.


I was a little nervous that Mike might look at me like I was crazy when we sat down. Sometimes he likes traditional, sometimes not. So I was trying to get a gauge of him throughout the service. 

He liked the music and was quietly tapping his foot on the floor. (Good)
Pastor Benji talked about sports, and he is a Duke alumni. (Good)
He showed a praying dog video to demonstrate how dogs are better than cats. (Awesome)




Then when we got in the car, he said, "that was the best sermon I've ever heard." 

Amen. 

See you there this Sunday, it's Vision Day.  Click below for more information. If you're looking for a church, it's a great time to visit this one.