Joseph

Being aware that I am part of a generation which is often missing from Church, I reflect on my experience of growing up in Church and my decision to stay in Church; particularly the question ‘What made the difference?’

Firstly, and perhaps most obviously (!) it is my belief in God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  I go to Church because I believe in God and want to know more about Him!  Church services, Sunday School, Youth Fellowship, Bible studies etc, all gave and give me the opportunity to hear more about the God that I serve. 

Secondly, I believe that Church is a Community created by God to encourage, enrich, and support each person – we learn together, hold each other accountable, and lift each other up.  We are a family of believers, and family is stronger when united. 

Thirdly, in the same way that families invest in one another, I was fortunate to be brought up through several Methodist churches which all invested in me!  I was given opportunities to step into leadership and service from a young age.  Leading services and delivering Bible readings, collecting the offering, helping with the younger Sunday School classes, handing out hymn books, greeting at the door, and singing in the Praise Group, all helped give me the confidence to not simply be an observer in Church, but a participant.  Knowing that I played piano, the organist in my church at the time, bought piano music for me, and encouraged me to develop this gift.  This led to me eventually playing in the Church Praise Group, and even Soul Mates for several years!  Feeling like I had a community of grandparents, aunties, uncles, etc. who loved investing in me, my skills, and my discipleship journey, meant that I was part of a community which I loved and didn’t want to leave!  

Finally, I was encouraged to volunteer with Rainbows, Scripture Union, Soul Mates, and holiday Bible clubs as a way of building my experience and living out my faith.  Faith is meant to be shared.  So one way of recognising the importance of staying in Church, was telling others about why I am part of the Christian Church. 

Overall, it was being given the opportunity and tools to develop my relationship with Jesus myself, and being allowed to explore and develop my calling, which encouraged me to remain an active participant in the Body of the Church.