Godplace/Mission238 forums

Open Discussion => General Discussion => Topic started by: SippinTea on February 05, 2007, 04:03:10 AM

Poll
Question: Does your church have a Sunday evening service?
Option 1: No, only a morning service on Sunday votes: 4
Option 2: No, only an afternoon service on Sunday votes: 7
Option 3: Yes, we have an evening service votes: 45
Title: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 05, 2007, 04:03:10 AM
Where I am from, Sunday evening services seem to be a thing of the past. Is it a dying tradition where you are, too? My church is one of maybe three churches in town that still has an evening service.

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Sister_Mom on February 05, 2007, 04:16:07 AM
We have morning and evening services. I have heard that many churches are going to only one service. I would be curious to know what the most common reason for this is. Is it due to low attendance and high utilities costs for keeping the building open for 2 services, or just not enough attendance period, or are there other reasons? Just wondering. In the couple of years before leaving the Baptist church it was becoming common to have 2 morning services, one contemporary and one traditional, yet Sunday night attendance was usually less than 1/3 of the Sunday morning services. I was astonished the first time I went to a UPC service at night and not only were people there early, but it looked like the same crowd as Sunday morning.  :o That was only one of the many things I saw as being different about that church, but it spoke volumes to me.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: NessasMama on February 05, 2007, 04:17:49 AM
We have both services. There may not be hardly anyone there, but, you never know when someone might be wandering by and see the lights on and stop.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Bliss on February 05, 2007, 04:23:43 AM
Most of the Pentecostal churches I have been to still have morning and evening services.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: RandyWayne on February 05, 2007, 05:47:48 AM
We got rid of our Sunday night service many years ago.  Our view is that Sunday is mainly a "family" day and not to completely revolve around 5 hours of church services and all the driving/getting ready, involved.

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 05, 2007, 08:38:35 AM
Here in Hong Kong, we only have one service. Sometimes there are other things later on Sunday afternoon, like prayer or leaders meeting... but actually, I quite like having only one service on a Sunday... particularly since Bernard is working 50-60 hr weeks... I think it's a good idea actually... I mean, I think if there was a conference or something, they can have 20 service a day or whatever - pack it as full as they can!! But when it comes to a weekly commitment, in some ways I think that less is more...
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: not my will but thine on February 05, 2007, 08:52:44 AM
I am all for two services on Sunday and even two throughout the week.  The church I was raised in would have Bible Study on Tuesday night,  Youth Service on Thursday night and then two services on Sunday.  My brother still goes there today.  They have changed to a Wednesday night service and one service on Sunday.  (the is temporary until the new pastor sells his house and moves from Indiana.)  My church now has two services on Sunday and one on Wednesday. 

I don't think attended church twice on Sunday should be considered a burden
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 05, 2007, 10:22:32 AM
I think that it depends on a few factors - like occupation, culture, etc... For people who work LONG hrs - personally I believe it's more important to be able to spend their weekend (often Sunday is the only day off!!) with family, or resting, etc... That's much more important than getting "two ticks on the attendance chart".

There is a church over here that has services every day of the week - and NO ONE, not even the pastor, attends them all. The reason why they do that is because a high proportion of their church is domestic helpers who only get ONE day a week off - and it could be any day of the week. And so they go to church once a week, on whatever day they happen to have off that week.

Sometimes I think that church becomes more about attendance than about growth... And sometimes we forget that a part of growth is resting. Even naturally - when a child is growing through a growth spurt, they tend to sleep/rest more. Spiritually, sometimes I think that we are so busy "doing" that we forget what the Sabbath was about to begin with - it wasn't about running around like a chicken with it's head cut off - it was about being STILL and resting...
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: MelodyB on February 06, 2007, 07:10:54 AM
Although I agree that sometimes we have ALOT going on on Sunday and I feel over tired with all that is gong on, I dont know if I would be able to handle NOT going to church twice on Sunday. When I do miss a service, (like I did this past Sunday) I feel kinda Out-of-place when I go back, like I missed a whole lot, eventhough it was just ONE service. And if I dont have two services on Sunday, then on monday I think it is Thursday and it throws my week off.

Quote from: Sister_Mom on February 05, 2007, 04:16:07 AM
I have heard that many churches are going to only one service. I would be curious to know what the most common reason for this is. Is it due to low attendance and high utilities costs for keeping the building open for 2 services, or just not enough attendance period, or are there other reasons? Just wondering.

I heard that a church in our area (that shall remain nameless) only has once service in the afternoon cause the Pastor is not a morning person and likes to sleep late everyday.

But that may be just section gossip..... 
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: JoleneHeather on February 06, 2007, 03:28:29 PM
We get the most visiters on sunday nights.  If we gave up sunday nights it would really cut into our growth.  And Sunday morning is important because as far as childern go, that is when we have the most visiters to sunday school.  And I have seen tooooo many churches start to fade after they got rid of their sunday night.  I would not feel comfortable going somewhere that didn't have a sunday night service.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: natewasmundt on February 06, 2007, 04:05:58 PM
No church on Sunday night??  Blasphemy!  You know God's more awake on Sunday night, than in just a morning or afternoon service . . .

:smirk2:

I've been visiting various churches near where I live, both UPC and another organization, and most have either just two morning services (8:30 & 10:45am) or one 2pm afternoon service.

I agree with Nicole, rest and fellowship is just as important as having a service.  I like having either just the morning or just an afternoon service and having the evening to rest, meet with others or spend time with family.

How often during the week are families able to get together in today's hectic society?  Not much here at least.  Maybe in Smalltown, USA life is slower and families are able to spend time together.  But where I'm from the only time really to get together is on Sunday evening.  The weekdays are spent working, and saturday is spent getting things done around the home that was unable to be done during the week . . . so sunday is the only day to rest.

I've heard the dire warnings against killing the sacred cow (sunday evening service) and how churches would die out or lose out if that happened . . . I have yet to be in a church where that's actually happened.

The church my parents are in has one afternoon service.  They began last August from scratch and have between 75 and 100 on Sundays now . . . and most are new, fresh off the street converts.  There are about 4 families (13 people or so) that have transferred from other churches, the rest are visitors and newbies.  They've been having revival like crazy - and without having a sunday evening service.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 06, 2007, 04:07:07 PM
My church does not have Sunday night services.  And revival is about to burst wide open!  I think it has helped the churches I've seen it in.  I grew up where there was church practically all the time, and that was great.  But I think that there is more going on these days than when my parents were kids.  When they were kids there wasn't so many different ministries, it was go to church and eat with everyone afterwards.  I have to admit, though that has it's wonderful points, their horizon wasn't and isn't as big.  These days it seems that with 2 services there is less fellowship and so not a day of rest.  But with one morning service you can actually have TIME with other saints and choir practice/other ministry meetings and such can happen at an easier pace later in the day if wanted.  While it's great to spend so much time in church, how much time do we really get with our spouse and children?  My grandpa was an Apostolic preacher and they had 8 kids.  Either one of those makes it hard to really have enough personal time with your family, add in 4 services or so and it's almost nearly impossible.

Most nights, my 3rd grader has homework, we eat and then it's bedtime.  My husband takes side jobs on Saturdays and or I help clean the church. (a 3-5 hour job)  So even though my kids are with one of us, our attention is not toward eachother. 

So I think plain ole life has to do with a lot of why some only have one Sunday Service.  And the rest I think is the way that time is speeding up in a way. 

Our walk with God is not a church service.  The service is there to help build eachother up but a lot of those services can become benign if there are so many and we lack time to spend on our personal walks and relationships.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 06, 2007, 04:25:01 PM
LOL.. I was writing that while Chaotic was posting his.

one more thing though.  One thing I learned when a church I was in went through the transition of no evening service.  It was during God birthing revival.  We would give it all we had in the morning service and then people were just physically and mentally exhausted by time the evening service.  Now mind you morning service was lasting longer because God was moving so powerfully.  We all went through kind of a phase where we had to sort of pace ourselves in the morning because we didn't want to be fatigued worshippers later.  This was almost torture!  When you go to church you want to lay everything you have, worship with all you have, and when God responds to that He takes you even further.  Not only that but unity increased and the desire to fellowship after such intense services increased and we wanted to talk and share testimonies that there just isn't all place for in service when God's moving.  So it was decided to just having morning service.  The rest of the day was just like RESTING in the joy God had deepened that morning with other saints, eating and yes, ministering to eachother. 

Well, needless to say there were NO hinderances in worship then and God moved even more.  Then there was time to scoop up the new converts into the lap of the church family.  This is when I seen the importance of fellowship.  It's one thing for a visitor/new convert to see people respond to and feel the Holiness of God, but it adds a entirely needed element of faith when they see the people of God loving eachother, getting along and welcoming them into this precious family sincerely.  Guess what?  Some people come in and enjoy the presence of God they feel but don't know how they could ever have a place there, or how to live with that presence applicated.  That fellowship time is where they learn it!  When you can be leisure when eating and the kids can be kids. 

OK, I'm feeling all mushy inside...lol 
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: natewasmundt on February 06, 2007, 05:20:35 PM
Quote from: MellowYellow on February 06, 2007, 04:25:01 PM
Our walk with God is not a church service.  The service is there to help build eachother up but a lot of those services can become benign if there are so many and we lack time to spend on our personal walks and relationships.
Good point.  I used to go to a church where people seemed to just come and mark their church attendance card.  They had Wednesday midweek and a Sunday AM and PM service and in all of 2006 baptized less than 10 and less than that received the Holy Ghost.  It was more a cemetary than a birthing room.  Barely any outreach; no push for home bible studies (best way I've seen at reaching people); just complacent.  Sad, but true.

I definitely agree that fellowship with saints and visitors outside of services is very important and has been lacking in our churches.  Most of the time all we see of each other is at church - and we don't spend much time together fellowshipping then because of the service.  We tend to arrive right before it begins and leave moments after it ends.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 06, 2007, 05:29:11 PM
you know, it's interesting.  Anytime these conversations come up the ever present question in my mind from those on both sides of the discussion is how many people are getting saved and discipled.  I think if it's pretty low, something, maybe not the topic at hand needs re-evaluated.  And if the # is low to nill, how can we argue against a different method?
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Nelle on February 06, 2007, 05:34:00 PM
Our church still has the two services.

While I was in Chicago visiting Brannon and his family,  I LOVED that they only had one service on Sunday. It was nice to go back to the house and relax.. knowing I would have to get right back up and get ready. lol.. Maybe that's a bit lazy and selfish, but it's true. :)


If it weren't for a nap on Sunday afternoons sometimes, I don't think I could make it through the day, haha. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Sunday church. If it weren't for my church HAVING service on Sunday night, I'd only get one service a week ALL semester long seeing how I teach Sunday School every other Sunday and I'm unable to go to Wed night service due to a class.

I'm so involved in every OTHER area of my church that I still feel like I'm getting my interaction and of course, through a daily life/walk with God, I'm not really missing out on an opportunity to worship Him.


A local church here in Jonesboro only has one real service in the morning and then has a "Friends & Family" kind of thing that night.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 06, 2007, 05:37:54 PM
I need to say that adjacent to my last post that if a church is experiencing people getting saved and discipled then obviously what their doing works for them and the idea of changing would be irrelevant.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Envelope on February 06, 2007, 06:22:20 PM
we have Sun AM and PM service.........Tuesday night prayer meeting and Thursday night church services...........

sharon
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: myhaloisintheshop on February 06, 2007, 07:22:23 PM
We have in our church back home had one service.  It was great to relax on Sunday but as soon as we got a new pastor we went to 2 services.  That went sooo much better for our church and we really saw growth!

Here at my new church we have 2 services on Sunday.  It works.  The dynamics of each service is different .
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Backseat Radio on February 06, 2007, 07:39:21 PM
My current church has sunday morning and sunday evening services.  I have been to a church that had only Sunday morning services and about once a month would have a special sunday evening service.  I've also attended churches that did Sunday afternoon services.  I figure go with what works best for the area your in.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: AmberMarie on February 06, 2007, 07:54:55 PM
I ~LOVE~ Sunday night services!!! I've been without them before and greatly missed them!  At my church, we have about the same people at every service....We run about 350 for the sunday services and I'd guess 300 for Wed night. No boring services here.  :thumbsup2:

Jesus is my passion...therefore, I want be doing something that involves him as much as possible. It's easy to be at church that often when one is passionate about revival and learning/growing/ministering etc.  ;)
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: natewasmundt on February 06, 2007, 08:43:29 PM
Quote from: AmberMarie on February 06, 2007, 07:54:55 PM
Jesus is my passion...therefore, I want be doing something that involves him as much as possible. It's easy to be at church that often when one is passionate about revival and learning/growing/ministering etc.  ;)
Awesome!  Jesus is also my passion . . . but I've learned that He can be outside of the church also.  At home.  Relaxing with friends and family.  On mountain hikes, bike rides, card games, etc.

I'm just messing with ya.  *grin*

On a more serious note, it's important to note that Jesus didn't spend much time at the "church" of His day - the Temple.  Instead, He was most often with his friends (Disciples) and everyday crowds.  I could be wrong, but I don't believe Jesus performed one miracle in the Temple.

I heard a message again by Rex Johnson, "Storm Walkers."  What an incredible message.  Listen to it here (http://www.reymah.com/radio/CLC%20-%20Pastor%20Johnson%20-%20Storm%20Walkers.mp3).

:thumbsup2:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Chseeads on February 06, 2007, 08:57:28 PM
You're often wrong, MS. :D


He might not have done miracles in the Temple, but He did in the synogogue.

9 And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:
10 And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him.
11 And he said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out?
12 How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days.
13 Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: natewasmundt on February 06, 2007, 09:07:46 PM
Okay . . . so ONE!  Wooo hooo!  Compared to the rest of them outside of the Temple/Synagogue . . .
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Chseeads on February 06, 2007, 09:21:58 PM
I didn't say that was the only one.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 06, 2007, 09:24:11 PM
Is it even necessary to meet weekly?

The author of Hebrews wrote that we should "not forsake the assembling of [ourselves] together."  He didn't write anything about the frequency of those assemblies.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 06, 2007, 11:27:55 PM
Uh oh. There goes the can of worms.  :biglaugh:

Seriously, you make a good point. It's often in the unplanned moments that I'm ministered to the most. Maybe we've made a sacred cow out of meeting every Sunday, twice a Sunday, and Wednesday night, too.  :) 

Some of the meetings I have learned the most from are the smaller, informal, more intimate meetings...like my Ladies' Bible study group on Tuesday afternoons. I love big services, too, don't get me wrong--but sometimes I think lasting changes are more easily made in less-structured formats.

Like tea shops!  ;)

Okay, that might be pushing the point a little. 

:beret:

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: NessasMama on February 06, 2007, 11:30:30 PM
Quote from: titushome on February 06, 2007, 09:24:11 PM
Is it even necessary to meet weekly?

The author of Hebrews wrote that we should "not forsake the assembling of [ourselves] together."  He didn't write anything about the frequency of those assemblies.

I've wondered the same thing. All of my life in the church I've heard the only 2 reasons you have to be out of church when the doors are opened are if you're sick in the hospital or dead!!!!!! So, I've always assumed that meeting weekly is a necessity.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 07, 2007, 02:02:14 AM
MY - I loved your posts about your experience with church just once on Sunday...

Another thing that it made me think about is how "relaxed" Sundays are now... A couple of weeks ago, we had one service that started at 11 - but we got there at 10 for practice etc... We had church and church finished at about 1 - and there was some food etc, and we ended up going into a "spontaneous testimony service" which lasted until about 4pm!! Because it was in the day time, and because we didn't have to race off back home in order to eat/sleep/get ready for night service, we were willing/able to just pretty much spend the WHOLE DAY at church... we were there for SIX HRS but it wasn't stressful at all!! And I love the fellowship, how people don't want to just run home after service... I always found with two services that after the morning service, people wanted to run off and eat/sleep/get home etc, and then after the evening service, people wanted to get home because it was getting late!! And if the youth DID go out after church, everyone wanted to leave STRAIGHT away, so us youth weren't EVER "fellowshipping" with the rest of the church!!

I actually thought that I WOULDN'T like only having one service on a Sunday - but now that I've seen how it works in my church, I'm LOVING it!!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 07, 2007, 02:12:33 AM
Thank God our church has not only 2 services on sunday, but we also have church on Tuesday and Thursday nights. (except this week, because Pastor Wilcox is at a conference).... Not to mention prayer meeting. honestly, I have never been in a church that I could feel more unity. It's awesome.

I hate that people have cut out on sunday night services. I mean... back in the day, services lasted til after 10pm. And the church today wonders why their people backslide. If anything, we need more church, to have more fellowship. And even though one can attain a great walk with God only going to church once on Sunday, there are some people who thrive on having been in church services. And being fed. what's the point in cutting the services? The world needs more God.  Not less.  Just because some people are able to make it without church, doesn't mean the weak, or the new converts can.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 07, 2007, 02:23:10 AM
More church services DOES NOT EQUAL more God.

There are some churches with a PACKED schedule that are successful, there are some churches with a packed schedule that are UNSUCCESSFUL...
There are some churches with less services that are successful, there are some churches with less services that are unsuccessful.

It's about knowing what works for YOUR church, in YOUR city, with YOUR culture, with YOUR congregation.

There's no hard and fast rule how many services churches should or shouldn't have - because what works somewhere WILL NOT work somewhere else.

So it's all well and good if you want to have one service a week, 3 services a week or 10 services a week - but don't put others down and don't act "holier than thou" because you have more services than someone else.

This is not aimed at ANYONE in particular... I just had to get that off my chest, that's all ;)
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: MelodyB on February 07, 2007, 02:52:35 AM
Im with Tia on this one...whatever works for your church....
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: NessasMama on February 07, 2007, 02:55:11 AM
We have a church in our district that has Sunday night service except the first Sunday of the month. That is Family Night. The church families are encouraged to get together with one another or with there own family and spend some quality time. The pastor even said it's not just a night off from hearing him preach and go skipping off to another church!!!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 07, 2007, 03:08:03 AM
I know of another church that does that, too. But the problem I've heard from that approach is that singles get left out often. After all, it's 'family' night.  :-?  As long as families are good at adopting people who might otherwise be alone, it could be a good idea.

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: NessasMama on February 07, 2007, 03:10:45 AM
Quote from: SippinTea on February 07, 2007, 03:08:03 AM
I know of another church that does that, too. But the problem I've heard from that approach is that singles get left out often. After all, it's 'family' night.  :-?  As long as families are good at adopting people who might otherwise be alone, it could be a good idea.

:beret:

Never really thought about the singles.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 07, 2007, 03:13:15 AM
I agree totally with nic... except... the fact that I think that most people who are new to church, need more services, so they can gain strength. I just prayed back thru... and I am a weak person right now.  Since we are not having services this week, being a weak person right now, I need all the fellowship I can get.

AND... in most Sunday morning services (not all) I have noticed that there is less of a move of God... I can't speak for every church... but... If there were a strong move of God, to strengthen the new people/weak people, I can understand... but when the services are just geared towards a sermon, and no room for God to move, which unfortunately often happens, it is hard to get a refilling that one needs to make it through the week.

  I just think that by cutting down on services, alot of churches cut themselves short of great things, and powerful moves of God. I prefer to be in God's presence as much as possible... and I guess I just don't understand why someone would want to be in His presence any less.

*shrugs*

It's just something I can't understand.  I don't knock another church for their new generational tactics. I just wish I could understand the motives.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 07, 2007, 03:23:59 AM
Quote from: NessasMama on February 07, 2007, 03:10:45 AM
Quote from: SippinTea on February 07, 2007, 03:08:03 AM
I know of another church that does that, too. But the problem I've heard from that approach is that singles get left out often. After all, it's 'family' night.  :-?  As long as families are good at adopting people who might otherwise be alone, it could be a good idea.

:beret:

Never really thought about the singles.

See?  :)  And then there are the widows, widowers, kids who come without parents, teens that are going it alone, etc, etc.  Talking with the person I know from this other church really made me think about people who get overlooked unintentionally. I don't think it's that people don't care....I think it's that they honestly never thought about someone else's position.

Anyhow, it's made me look past the surface of some of the activities we do at my church, and try to include more people.

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: NessasMama on February 07, 2007, 03:28:57 AM
We have such small churches around here that everyone gets included in no matter what is going on!!! Especially in my church, we only run about 15 on average.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 07, 2007, 03:34:54 AM
Sometimes small is good. You start to feel more like family than friends.  :thumbsup2:

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: NessasMama on February 07, 2007, 03:37:38 AM
You're right about that.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: RandyWayne on February 07, 2007, 03:39:25 AM
I can see the circumstances being different for a really small church -under 60, 70, or 80 people, but I was a member of a larger one many moons ago and they invited everyone to every service.  And everyone came.... which means your parents were sitting right behind you during youth service.  "Of course everyone is encouraged to come because were ALL 'young at heart'!"
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 07, 2007, 04:09:36 AM
Quotethe fact that I think that most people who are new to church, need more services, so they can gain strength. I just prayed back thru... and I am a weak person right now.  Since we are not having services this week, being a weak person right now, I need all the fellowship I can get.

I think I see what your saying PraiseBreak.  And if our walk with God was about church services then yes, more would be good.  But it's not.  Yes, new converts need more.  But not necessarily more church.  WE ARE THE CHURCH.  The building and service structure is not what makes a church.  I believe new converts and weak folks could be edified even more (on top of services but where's the time if you're in services?) by spending time with Godly folks.  Not only can you still talk about walking with God, but they can still teach it AND you see it in action.  I have 1000% more about marriage by spending time with a Godly older couple than the sermons I've heard preached on it.  Yes, the sermons were great and yes the Word of God is eye opening, but seeing it in action is a blessing and ministering I did not have otherwise.  There are so many areas that we can become stronger in by fellowshipping with stronger saints added to great preaching.

QuoteAND... in most Sunday morning services (not all) I have noticed that there is less of a move of God... I can't speak for every church... but... If there were a strong move of God, to strengthen the new people/weak people, I can understand... but when the services are just geared towards a sermon, and no room for God to move, which unfortunately often happens, it is hard to get a refilling that one needs to make it through the week.

see, now that explains your perspective right there.  If God is being hindered in moving in EVERY service then of course you need more!  I have been where you are.  Now imagine what I'm saying.  You not only pray through in the morning service but you shout and intercede, maybe even are used in one of the gifts!  You walk out of that service, not only full but running over.  There is a depth of joy and a new awareness/discernment.  You are not only motivated but reinspired with a deeper knowing of God Himself.  The only draw back?  You are physically drained.   Is there more preaching that could be done?  Always, but we are finite and when you're full, it needs to soak into you. 

That may sound crazy to you all but I've been there.  I can see if God isn't being allowed to move why people would feel like they need to have service after service.   But just in my experience, which does not negate someone else's,  when you're full, you're full.  Next day, maybe. 

QuoteI prefer to be in God's presence as much as possible... and I guess I just don't understand why someone would want to be in His presence any less.

I see what you're saying if the presence of God was bound to the church building.  But make no mistake, WE ARE THE CHURCH.  Where ever we gather there is the presence of God.  Jesus did not spend all his time at the 'churches' but fellowshipping along the way.  The disciples went from house to house breaking bread, and THAT was during revival!  It's great that we have some organization to religion.  It enables us to combine our efforts.  But God and His presence are where His people are, whether they're singing hymnals and preaching sermons or not. 

Not having as many services PraiseBreak is a wonderful opportunity for you!  New converts need extra attention, YES!  But they must also learn to practice the presence of God on their own and how to rely on God for their salvation, not others.  New converts are so precious, but make no mistake, missing a few services should not lead to backsliding.  They need to know that they must fight at times to be faithful and pray through by themselves and God.  Of course, continual missing church doesn't help but that's not on the table.  We shouldn't forsake the assembling of ourselves but we shouldn't make it a burden either.  If it's not then my statements are irrelevant to you.

Does that make any sense?   :updown:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: MelodyB on February 07, 2007, 05:17:37 AM
Great posts MY
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 07, 2007, 06:12:06 AM
I adore you, MY - you always know just what to say!!!

One thing that I LOVE about my church at the moment is that after the service, we have this thing called "small groups" which is, in a way, "structured fellowship" where we get ourselves into groups of about 3-6 people and talk about what the preaching meant to us, what scriptures we have on our minds, where we are in life, what "needs" we have... and we talk for about 10-15 min and then all pray for each other... It adds SOOOOO much to the service - but I've NEVER seen it done like that in any other church... It also helps "unite" the church as well!! My church has GREAT "unity"... and we have LOTS of new people too!!!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: MelodyB on February 07, 2007, 06:17:28 AM
Ooooo that sounds great...we need to try that!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 07, 2007, 03:17:57 PM
Yes, there is something to be said about small groups.  My church doesn't have Wednesday night service, instead we have cell groups.  It's basically like home Bible studies.  There is a leader that has a small lesson that every cell group also has that week.  Depending on your group, you can have it on any night.  When we started here, the leader of Cell Ministry (?) hooked us up with one and then checked back twice with other recommendations if that group didn't quite fit us.  It did, and we love the 6 other people who we are with, it's just what the DR. ordered.  You know my pastor told my husband that he has to do far less counceling now because when people develope family relationships within their cell group, there is that support and prayer and intimacy that we all need.  I think that is one thing that makes such unity in a big church.  I can't remember but maybe Bro. Cornwell said it, that there is a low retention rate in our churches.  But that home Bible studies increase that number GREATLY.  Why?  There's something to that.....

My cousin, who was raised in UPCI while I was raised in PAW as kids and then God has put me within UPCI churches as an adult while she has been in PAW has spoken with me about some of the things she has learned.  Both orgs have some wonderful qualities and flaws, it's inevitable.  But one major difference we both have noticed is that while it 'seems' (based on OUR experience mind you) upci spends time with congregants sitting in the pews listening, paw spends more time interacting.  She pointed out things her mom, who grew up in paw, would tell her about how Wednesday nights were far more interactive at church.  My cousin was sharing that she thinks many of the older generations were stronger because there was more interaction and fellowship.  That being able to reiterate and share what you see in what the subject is, makes people more interested and committed.  While there are other factors, I do believe that.  Now obviously this stereotype has many exceptions, but I think it's still more common than the way my church does it. 

In this I can see why the older generations are looking for more church while others aren't.  I think we need our church culture back, not necessarily more services, but if that is how a church can accomplish that, more power to them.  New converts need to be a part of a new family, not just a movement.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 07, 2007, 03:33:06 PM
on a side note someone gave us the DVD of Bro.Mangun Sr.  One thing that stood out to me was that Sis. Mangun was almost always spending time with the young women in the church.  They shared memories and they said they did so much together.  If one of them was having a hard time, broke up with their boyfriend, the gals would rally together and build that one back up.  They said she taught them all kinds of stuff like hygene, manners, cooking, and how to pray.  Now this is the single young women I think but isn't it amazing that that many are still in church?!  They made it clear that Sis. Mangun taking them under her wing and the fellowship they had helped make them strong. 

Teaching and fellowship, on top of church services!  I hear a resounding wisdom. 

Why are our youth struggling so much?  Why are people getting saved but then backsliding so easily?  Why are people after years of going to church backsliding?  Well, the obvious is that they don't have a strong walk with God, it's a choice.  But how much effects that choice?  Would they have backslid if they had a supportive family that they not only worshipped with at church but fellowshipped with and had friendships with, sharing their struggles, and those saints rallying around them to be supportive, bearing their burden?

We can blame the backslider all day.  It does ultimately rest on their shoulders.  But, what if we helped bear eachother's burdens?  What if we spent more time together outside of church services? 

Whether you have 3 or 6... services a week, fellowship needs a place, and if we're having so much 'church' that there is no time for fellowship, how does that further the kingdom?
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 07, 2007, 03:59:54 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 07, 2007, 02:12:33 AM
I hate that people have cut out on sunday night services. I mean... back in the day, services lasted til after 10pm. And the church today wonders why their people backslide. If anything, we need more church, to have more fellowship.

I think that when we look at the way church services used to be - more frequent, going later, etc. - it's easy to assume that if we follow the same pattern, we'll see the same moving of the Spirit.  But that's not how the Lord works: He's always doing new things!

What we really need to see is not more or longer church services, but the Church training the saints to live for God when the service is over.  As others here have stated, we are the Church - every day, all day, wherever we go, whomever we're with.  We don't need to go to church as much as we need to be the Church, and for many of us that's such a new and/or foreign concept that it's going to take some training and a lot of living to learn how.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: TiffanyJ on February 07, 2007, 05:13:19 PM
I guess I am coming in on this late but Praise Break asked for some motives behind going to one service and our church over the last few years has went to one service. It started out as a winter thing. We have several ladies that drive about 30 minutes or so ...and their husbands didn't like them coming when there was snow and that sort of thing at night. So we went to a 2:00 service. Then after we did that we had a HUGE increase in our attendance because visitors would come because they wouldn't have to miss their own service to come and eventually alot of them became members. Plus they didn't have to get up early blah blah blah. So we started having huge growth. It also allows for practices and meetings. we have a staff meeting, and choir practice before church and many times on sunday night we take an hour or two break to eat then come back for a childrens ministry practice. Otherwise we would have to take out another night out of our week to fit all of this in. We also have over half of our church driving pretty far distances and if we had two services many of them could not come. It just has worked better for us altogether I can't imagine going back to having two services although my dad threatens to frequently lol.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Heather on February 07, 2007, 10:17:31 PM
we have one service at 2 pm on sundays. wednesday night we have either home friendship groups, prayer, or service. we also have youth service every friday night. we are in middle of revival and have saw tremedous growth in the 6 months i've been attending. one reason we have the 2 pm service is because our pastor works 12 hour swing night shifts. also we have others who work nights. afternoon service allows these people some sleep! of course our services go sometimes til 4 sometimes til 6. according to how the spirit moves. and of course this allows time for various ministry meetings and practices [choir, sign team, etc] after service without going wee into the night.

i used to attend a church that had 2 services. mornings was very slow and the evening service was usually swinging. lol. i know from contacts still at that church they have not saw much growth.

i believe that due to the industrial parks and other work schedules in my particular area that the one afternoon service is best.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 08, 2007, 01:41:42 AM
I think that if you have ONE service on a Sunday, people don't care if they spend 4 or more hrs at church. It's "harder" on people to give 2 lots of 2 hrs than one lot of 4 hrs... The "time" could be exactly the same, but in one block, it's "easier"...


And I totally agree that fellowship is EXTREMELY important... sharing, getting to know each other and the struggles we're all having... praying for each other in small groups - we cannot afford to NOT have that in our churches!!!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 08, 2007, 04:58:24 PM
While I agree on the "new" ways of doing the church thing... It was like my pastor's wife and I spoke about last night over dinner. We ARE all the church, even without the building. However, when more than 2 people are gathered together, there is gonna be a good opportunity for church. but the chances of being able to get one on one with a new convert during the week is slim. Take me, for instance. Just now getting back into the swing of being in church again- most of the people in our church are working during the week, or have other obligations.

Now. I called my pastor's wife, and told her... I need fellowship. So most of the church went out to eat last night because of the fact that I really hated not being around church folks all week. However... not every church is like the one I attend... And not everyone has time during the week... Let's get real about this. People need Godly intervention, whether in the building, or out. And honestly, there are very few people who will go to a new convert during the week, and say "hey, let's have a prayer meeting... "

  times have changed. people have busy lives.

thank you, Mellow for your words. you are always kind, and never offensive in your "speaking". and I appreciate that you think about things from all perspectives before jumping... lol... *hugs*

I hope I haven't seemed to be overreacting about the subject. And If I have offended anyone, please accept my apologies... :) I just am stuck in my ways about church as a whole, being a preacher's kid 2 times around, and seeing so many people fall off the wagon, because of their lack of fellowship.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 08, 2007, 06:06:11 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 08, 2007, 04:58:24 PM
seeing so many people fall off the wagon, because of their lack of fellowship.

Isn't that the truth! They don't seem to realize what they're doing to themselves. Or else they just don't care, I guess.

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: not my will but thine on February 09, 2007, 05:11:16 AM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 08, 2007, 04:58:24 PM

  times have changed. people have busy lives.


Is that really a good excuse to tell God when its gonna really count?  :cry2:

I think we have gotten away from priorities and use excuses such as times have changed or the world moves at a faster pace now.  I understand that you have to work and be a provider but other than work and family what else is there that HAS to be done.  I'm not one to say that you have to go every time the door is open or think there is a particular # of services that must be conducted each week or else...  but if fellowship of godly people is what you are seeking after then go to church and don't grip and complain about how many times a week there is a church service. 

On the other hand I feel there are a lot more opportunities in this age of high tech gadgets, internet and webcast that allows for flexibility and convenience for the modern day Christian.  There are countless churches with websites that post webcast of services where you can go and listen to the word being taught.  This will limit your fellowship but I believe the Spirit can move in you while sitting in your chair at home watching a broadcast of a church service just the same as sitting in a pew in that same church.

Thats a lot of ranting and raving and I justed wanted to point out that God has given us free will to make our decision.  Maybe for some it will be to pick a church that only meets once a week so that they can "be busy" the rest of the week or the other end of the spectrum pick one that meets several times a week and goes to church (the actual building) every opportunity regardless of what else is happening in life (short of work obligations and family obligations--  but hey shouldn't family be involved in church with you anyway-- I know not always the case) 

I agree that the focus of the service should be more on the quality rather than the quantity as someone stated in this thread but isn't it possible to have both!  :biglaugh:

Sorry, I will hush now.  Not intended as backlash for anyone just my 2 cents
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 09, 2007, 02:49:11 PM
Quote from: not my will but thine on February 09, 2007, 05:11:16 AMI'm not one to say that you have to go every time the door is open

but that is exactly how many pastors not only feel but command
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: natewasmundt on February 09, 2007, 03:18:58 PM
Quote from: MellowYellow on February 09, 2007, 02:49:11 PM
Quote from: not my will but thine on February 09, 2007, 05:11:16 AMI'm not one to say that you have to go every time the door is open
but that is exactly how many pastors not only feel but command
Yep.  I know a Pastor and wife, though, that while they preach that and say that's required of people involved in the ministry at their church, the Pastor and wife themselves are hardly at mid-week services - especially his wife.  She made the statement a few months ago that she doesn't even like going to church anymore.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 09, 2007, 03:22:50 PM
wow, that's so sad.  They need revival.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 09, 2007, 03:33:00 PM
I love what the word "revival" actually means - we use it so much that sometimes we don't think about what it means any more... "revival" is coming back to life, something that has been "dead" or "down" or something like that coming back to life, with renewed energy/love/fervency!!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 09, 2007, 05:43:18 PM
Quote from: not my will but thine on February 09, 2007, 05:11:16 AM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 08, 2007, 04:58:24 PM

  times have changed. people have busy lives.


Is that really a good excuse to tell God when its gonna really count?  :cry2:



No excuse for me... You misinterpreted the aspect I was writing from. now... you count on one hand people YOU know, that go out (instead of working, and tending to their children), to talk to new converts, and people who are lost. I can't count ANYONE on my hand that will miss a day of work just to go see someone who needs fellowship. I don't mean busy in a loose fashion. I mean it in a workminded/children minded atmosphere.

I wasn't referring to myself. Because I witness as much as I can. I was talking about people as a whole. :]

and... that point made, it's not relative to the conversation at hand. I was explaining my viewpoints on why people SOME people need more church, rather than less. Most people I know, are too busy (not in idle things, but responsibilities), to just leave what they're doing to meet with someone who needs fellowship. I speak from experience.

  Being a backslider, when I began to get weak, and missed church, VERY few people (in fact, only 2) even called me to see what was going on. It's because with jobs, and having to care for 3/4 children a day... not everyone can just jump and run. so... where was I getting Godly fellowship when I needed it? My church at that time, only had services on Sunday mornings, and sunday nights. no midweek services.  and though I knew how to have a walk with God, I was a weak person. I needed more fellowship, and bluntly, nobody had time for fellowship during the week.

That is what I meant... Maybe I should have elaborated more on what I meant by that.


Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: not my will but thine on February 09, 2007, 09:23:53 PM
Praise Break,

Please don't be offended by what I said,  I wasn't taking a stab at you or anyone else  :(

I do agree with your last post and think that is reality and where we (as the church) have evolved too and led busy life's.  The point I want to try and get across is we (all of us) need to sit down and consider our priorties and go a little bit of an extra mile to fellowship and live the life of a christian.

Hope that makes better sense
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: amanda16 on February 09, 2007, 11:19:44 PM
we have sunday morning and evening services then wednesday night.. Then on mondays it's bible study tuesdays ladys meetings thursdays mens meetings friday prayer saturday youth meetings so we have stuff going on every night...  :-\
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Jennie-lynnie on February 10, 2007, 03:49:29 AM
The church that I went to before I got married had Sunday morning and Sunday evening service. It was a small church (about 25-30 people). On Sunday morning we would have the 25-30 but on Sunday night we would only have about 8-10 people show up. It really wasn't going well at all. On Sunday morning people would stroll in all tired and just sit there. It was lifeless. Then on Sunday evening they would have prayer at 5:30 and church at 6. The evening service there was always so much more powerful than there morning service!


The church we go to now has church on Sunday at 2:00 pm. Prayer at 1:30. And we usually get out around 4:00-4:30. I love it! When I go into service I'm well rested and  I get in there in the prayer room and get in tune before service begins! I have seen some of the most powerful moves of God in this church! I think that having prayer before service is essential! It gets me going and ready for service!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 13, 2007, 05:10:06 PM
Quote from: not my will but thine on February 09, 2007, 09:23:53 PM
Praise Break,

Please don't be offended by what I said,  I wasn't taking a stab at you or anyone else  :(

I do agree with your last post and think that is reality and where we (as the church) have evolved too and led busy life's.  The point I want to try and get across is we (all of us) need to sit down and consider our priorties and go a little bit of an extra mile to fellowship and live the life of a christian.

Hope that makes better sense

NoNo! I wasn't offended in the least. I was just wanting to make clear my meaning, so I didn't seem to be somewhat of a lazy christian. Lol. I agree totally with what you said. Our priority on this earth is not for us to uplift us... It's about reaching the lost... And at any cost. :]
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: poetic on February 14, 2007, 01:12:58 PM
 I've heard that the reason why some pentecostal churches don't have a sunday evening service is because they want the members to spend time with their family and fellowship.
   It would be awkward for me not to be going to church on sunday evening. Sunday is the day here in the states that we set aside solely for God.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 14, 2007, 03:17:09 PM
Quote from: poetic on February 14, 2007, 01:12:58 PM
Sunday is the day here in the states that we set aside solely for God.

And God forbid that time spent with our families would be counted as time spent with Him!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 14, 2007, 05:01:41 PM
Quote from: titushome on February 14, 2007, 03:17:09 PM
Quote from: poetic on February 14, 2007, 01:12:58 PM
Sunday is the day here in the states that we set aside solely for God.

And God forbid that time spent with our families would be counted as time spent with Him!

Exactly... I was talking to one of the other posters on here (my best friend) and she said it feels funny not having service on Sunday Nights at her church. And we discussed being with family... Good grief. Church is where family bonds grow strongest. *shrugs*
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Heather on February 15, 2007, 10:53:16 PM
but what about people like me who's family is not in church? sunday evenings is the one day my mom, dad, and sister are actually home. so generally matt and i go to church at 2. get out. fellowship. go to any meetings or practices, then come to my house to see my family. this is our time to spend with them and to witness to them. knowing we had church, they are always asking what has happened in service that day.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 16, 2007, 01:52:31 AM
You can spend time with people who don't know the Lord - your family in particular - and simultaneously spend time with the Lord.  It may not feel as rich for you personally to spend time with people with whom you don't share that bond of an intimate relationship with Him , but both you and they need that time together.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 16, 2007, 05:33:56 PM
 I don't know. I just know for so long, the church has set aside Sundays to be the Sabbath, or God's Day. My family isn't in church. neither is my husband. but you make bet I don't miss a service when he's home. And the church sure doesn't dismiss Sunday night service for me to spend time with Nick just because he is only home 6 days out of the month. sometimes less. Sometimes Going to church is more of a living witness to people than sitting at home. :] 
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: RandyWayne on February 16, 2007, 05:45:44 PM
QuoteMy family isn't in church. neither is my husband. but you make bet I don't miss a service when he's home. And the church sure doesn't dismiss Sunday night service for me to spend time with Nick just because he is only home 6 days out of the month. sometimes less. Sometimes Going to church is more of a living witness to people than sitting at home. :]

Ok, this is a little telling.
For one thing, is God the priority or is it the church?  I know you will say God, and I will believe you when you say it, but I am not so sure that your husband can see the distinction.  Especially if he is only home, as you say, 6 days a month.
It is about priorities.  God DOES come first, but family is a close 2nd (and even within the family, it is the spouse then the kids -in that order).  The church is a distant 3rd or 4th on the list.

Your husband knows you love attending church.  Here is a thought.... stay home on a Sunday night and make him the best dinner he has ever had!  I can guarantee it will pay off and NO 'witness' will be lost.  Show him that HE comes before the church -not before God, but before the building, fellowship of the saints, and pastor of the place you call church.



Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Chosen1 on February 16, 2007, 06:50:53 PM
I have to disagree with ya Randy.  I know Ging(takeapraisebreak) will disagree also.  Her and I have the same views on church.  Anyways...if her hubby thinks well she will stay home with me on sunday nite, then maybe she will stay home with me on tuesday nite, and so on and so on.  She needs to be the example God wants her to be so her hubby will start going to church.  Which God is going to do a miracle in his life, we are believing for it in Jesus Name then he will go to church with her.  But anyways........  Also if he sees her going to church and living right then maybe a lightbulb will go off in his head and say "hey there really is something to this Jesus and Holy Ghost, I need to try it out."
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 16, 2007, 08:29:15 PM
Given what little I know about TAPB's situation, I agree with Randy.

With a husband who is home all the time, I believe the wife should be faithful to attend every church service she can.  But when he is only home six days out of the month, it's likely that making a priority of spending time with him would be a more powerful witness of God's love than faithfulness to church services.

Remember, the church is not a place or a scheduled meeting - it's US, the people; WE are the Church.  And to your husband, YOU are the Church.

Like I said, I don't know much about your situation, so I could be wrong.  But I encourage you to prayerfully consider ways you can be a witness to your husband by placing priority on your time with him, since he's home so little.  I have a hunch he'll hugely appreciate any effort you make to be with him while he's home.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 16, 2007, 11:04:27 PM
I'm trying to look at it from your hubby's point of view.  If I were unsaved and only home 6 days a month, and some of those days my spouse didn't spend them with me and me with them, boy would that be a hard if not impossible marriage.  Not only for the small amount of time we have together but for the fact that he didn't love me enough to take advantage of the short time we had.  He may love God with all he has but that is reflected in how I see him be when he's around me, not when he's gone.  That would hurt my feelings actually because saved or not, I know that God is not a church and a church is not God.  Unsaved people may not get the Spiritual things but they're not stupid either.  So it would be saying to me that he'd rather be around church people than me.  What's the point of being married?

I'm not saying it's that way for you but if it's not, you are the 1% exception, and you haven't been married long either, so a case cannot be built on that.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 17, 2007, 08:52:38 PM
OKay.

1. My hubby is a backslider. He knows the difference between the church/God.  He has been around the UPC mentality enough to know what we believe and what we don't.

2. MY hubby would rather me go to church, than for me to stay home and try to re-convert him.

3. I can witness to my husband other nights than just a sunday night. In fact... He respects the fact that I go to church. And after being together for so long, the only other witnessing a person can do for their unsaved spouse, is to live the life. attend church every service possible. 


  that being said... why has this discussion become and all out "let's agree to disagree with Ginger discussion"? It clearly has nothing to do with me and my husband, and has been manipulated into a discussion about just that.

The topic at hand is about Sunday night services. Or the lack thereof. Not about whether or not I stay home and cook dinner for Nicholais.

   So can we please go back to the original topic???


Thanks... :]
Gin


Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 18, 2007, 08:31:09 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 17, 2007, 08:52:38 PM
  that being said... why has this discussion become and all out "let's agree to disagree with Ginger discussion"? It clearly has nothing to do with me and my husband, and has been manipulated into a discussion about just that.

For my part, no manipulation was intended.  I apologize.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 18, 2007, 08:42:07 PM
I was not offended. No need for apologies...but yours is appreciated...

  you each are entitled to your own opinion. It just seemed like everyone was ganging up on me about every post I made. Anyone who calls themself a Christian should not show negativity towards someone who chooses to go to church more, rather than less. I threw no stones at anyone, I just left my response and my opinion on the subject, and the darts started flying in my direction.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Heather on February 19, 2007, 10:12:16 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 18, 2007, 08:42:07 PM
I was not offended. No need for apologies...but yours is appreciated...

  you each are entitled to your own opinion. It just seemed like everyone was ganging up on me about every post I made. Anyone who calls themself a Christian should not show negativity towards someone who chooses to go to church more, rather than less. I threw no stones at anyone, I just left my response and my opinion on the subject, and the darts started flying in my direction.

and likewise someone who has night service should not look down on those who only have 1 sunday service.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: RandyWayne on February 19, 2007, 10:19:10 PM
Quoteand likewise someone who has night service should not look down on those who only have 1 sunday service.

Amen and amen. 

Quite frankly, I am shocked that such a large % of churches still have the traditional Sunday morning/Evening/Wed night services along with youth/prayer/mens groups/ladies groups etc, to fill out the rest of the week.  Nothing wrong with any of the above but it seems like tradition which has turned into doctrine. 



Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: NessasMama on February 19, 2007, 10:50:59 PM
I think how much church a person needs should be based on an individual. Some people need the extra services. Some people can go from Sunday afternoon to the next Sunday afternoon. I don't think it has anything to do with how spiritual a person is. I personally like having a Sunday night service and a midweek service and Prayer meeting on Saturday nights. If an opportunity arises to spend time with my family while there is church going on I will prolly choose spending time with my family, unless of course I've made a committment to be in that particular service. I think it's great when a person says that they need to be in church everytime the doors are open. That to me says they recognize their own personal need. If someone misses a service to go do something else and they can keep up their walk with God and it not be hindered, then great!!!!!!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 20, 2007, 05:49:52 PM
I was never looking down on anyone... Never did I say I was. I just said I didn't understand the concept... and being a preacher's kid, I probably never will. I don't look down on Anyone for at least going to church once on Sunday. I am just not understanding why pastors in previous years have always stressed more services, and long services... and then when I get back in church, I hear there's less and less. I am not shunning anyone. I just can't comprehend their theory.

  I know family needs to be together. but we're not in this for us. we're in it for souls. And the more church there is, the more of a chance in someone coming in off the street, etc... and coming to church. All too many times (some... not all) churches focus on me me me... and not the lost... and I have witnessed that. So I can speak from experience. I hope I haven't seemed to have come across as looking down on anyone... because never once did I state that. I just wanted reasons. And nobody has been able to give me a valid reason, without attacking me for my beliefs... Except for M/Y.

Which by the way...  Edith and I were talking about you, M/Y and how wise, yet harmless you are... and I respect that 100%. You never throw snide remarks... etc.. in any discussion that you respond to. And whether I agree with your POV or not, just know I respect you for being wise as a serpent and harmless as a dove... :]

I guess I am just lucky to be in an Independant Apostolic church who has services Tuesday, Thursday and twice on Sunday. We get our church on... lol...  Because like Edith said... She attends a church where she wished they WOULD have Services twice on Sunday. I lucked out. :]
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 20, 2007, 09:18:16 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 20, 2007, 05:49:52 PM
I know family needs to be together. but we're not in this for us. we're in it for souls.

My own soul and the souls of my family are my first concern.  So, we are "in this for us."  I don't want, after having preached or witnessed to others, to myself become a castaway.  Or my wife or children to become castaways.

I know what you mean about people who so emphasize "family time" that the Church is no longer a priority, or is a very low priority, in their lives.  But it's possible to go the other way too, and be so committed to the Church that our families are neglected.  There needs to be a balance.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 20, 2007, 11:03:25 PM
Quote from: titushome on February 20, 2007, 09:18:16 PM
I know what you mean about people who so emphasize "family time" that the Church is no longer a priority, or is a very low priority, in their lives.  But it's possible to go the other way too, and be so committed to the Church that our families are neglected.  There needs to be a balance.

Amen and amen! I'm realizing more and more that the Christian walk is all about balance. Anything we do can be taken to an unhealthy extreme.

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 20, 2007, 11:27:52 PM
Quote from: titushome on February 20, 2007, 09:18:16 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 20, 2007, 05:49:52 PM
I know family needs to be together. but we're not in this for us. we're in it for souls.

My own soul and the souls of my family are my first concern.  So, we are "in this for us."  I don't want, after having preached or witnessed to others, to myself become a castaway.  Or my wife or children to become castaways.

I know what you mean about people who so emphasize "family time" that the Church is no longer a priority, or is a very low priority, in their lives.  But it's possible to go the other way too, and be so committed to the Church that our families are neglected.  There needs to be a balance.

You took the words right out of my mouth!!

Balance, balance, balance... with ALL things!!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Dew-Ax-238 on February 21, 2007, 07:57:48 AM
We only have Sunday Afternoon. Which starts at 2 and is not over until  about 4 or so... when ever the Lord says so.. LOL. we do NOT rush things at all...

The reason for just one service is that for

1) we run about 30 people
2) most are  50+ Leaning more towards the ++ end...
3) we have saints who drive atleast an hour or so to get to church...
4) we can have some pretty nasty winters. and with all the hills and turns saint who drive from here in Ohio and West Va it was just good idea to have one service on Sunday.

It works out wonderful, then you are free if you want to "visit" another ALJC or UPC  church for the evening..

On Wed nights we start at 6 and that is when we have Sunday School/ Bible Study for the Adults,  right now there are NO kids that attend on Wed... This works out great to have SS on Wed nights. this way we are NOT rushed to get through the lesson and into the next service.. the Lord has really moved in Sunday school... we are usually out at 7:30
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 21, 2007, 05:18:24 PM
I totally agree with having balance... that's why there's not church Monday through friday, save midweek service. What's wrong with witnessing to them and being around them on Saturday? Why does it HAVE to be on a Sunday that a pastor dismisses church for you to spend family time with family? when there are 6 other days out of the week to do so?
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 21, 2007, 05:22:40 PM
I don't know about you all but my hubby works a lot of Saturdays and when he doesn't we might actually have some time with him and my kids but not necessarily for other church folks too.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: myhaloisintheshop on February 21, 2007, 05:51:34 PM
my husband works 6 days a week right now.  he doesn't get home until almost 8 most nights.

Sunday is our only time together.  To even see our family out of town we have to just take a Sunday for ourselves.  Our pastor has told us that he understands--We have to have healthy family relationships to the best of our ability.  We do have to have balance in all things though.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 21, 2007, 08:26:15 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 21, 2007, 05:18:24 PM
I totally agree with having balance... that's why there's not church Monday through friday, save midweek service. What's wrong with witnessing to them and being around them on Saturday? Why does it HAVE to be on a Sunday that a pastor dismisses church for you to spend family time with family? when there are 6 other days out of the week to do so?

MY and Halo have addressed the concerns you stated above - from their own personal experience, no less.

Also, in calling for balance I was in part addressing the attitude of some that says, "If the church doors are open, I need to be there!"  Some churches - larger churches especially - might have two Sunday services, one or two midweek services/Bible studies, youth night, outreach on Saturdays, and a host of peripheral events on the other days.  To try to commit to them all is, in my opinion, over-reaching.

I should also note that I am not addressing your or any other individual's desire to be in church as much or as little as possible; I am addressing the general need for balance in our lives.  The exact balance will be different for each person and family.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 22, 2007, 12:10:27 PM
Right Titus... And some people could have a good balance and attend church every day. Other people have a poor balance and only attend twice a week. It's not about "this is ideal, THIS arrangement is balance" because the actual "proper balance" will differ from person to person...

That's why it's important for churches to be "flexible" and not condemn people for missing a couple of weekends or whatever - because THAT attitude could potentially rob people of THEIR "proper balance"...
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 22, 2007, 03:34:19 PM
Aaaaaand, she's off and running! No wonder she's been poster of the year.  :biglaugh:

Nice post, Nic.

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Gingerale on February 22, 2007, 04:38:14 PM
Quote from: titushome on February 21, 2007, 08:26:15 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 21, 2007, 05:18:24 PM
I totally agree with having balance... that's why there's not church Monday through friday, save midweek service. What's wrong with witnessing to them and being around them on Saturday? Why does it HAVE to be on a Sunday that a pastor dismisses church for you to spend family time with family? when there are 6 other days out of the week to do so?

MY and Halo have addressed the concerns you stated above - from their own personal experience, no less.

  To try to commit to them all is, in my opinion, over-reaching.


Wow. This is one statement I truly disagree with. the Bible says not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together... which everyone I know interprets that to be church. And what is too great a sacrifice to attend a service to worship the One who gave his life for us?


again. (including myself) we are getting way off subject again. This is not about whether we go to church when there are services... It's about NOT having services as opposed to having them. Lol. I keep getting off subject. *shrugs*

Well... My husband is NEVER home. I mean. Yeah. 3-6 days a month. But I still have time to witness to him on Non church nights that he ~is~ home. and... even when he's out on the road... in fact... he and I talked church this week on the phone. He told me he respects my pastor etc. blah blah blah... and he told me he might end up coming to church. And to think. I didn't even have to stay home to get Nicholas to that point. :]

  I agree... Some things work for some churches. I've been a witness of that. But from experience... It can also NOT work, as it did in my former church. we lost quite a few folks when my former pastor dropped sunday night services... and the new converts (4 out of 6 of them) quit coming because they had to work sunday mornings, and with no sunday night services, they were left high and dry.

  And witnessing that... I gain my reasonings for the disagreement in the matter.


   as for proper balance... back in the older days of Pentecost... (even up until I got into church in '97) Balance was going to church when the doors were open, and being there for your family when they weren't open. But all too often people spend more time shopping, etc etc... instead of spending time with family. Now if God is the same... and always has been... why should routines change? Other than to fit the accomodations that the fast paced world has brought upon us?

  I guess I am still old fashioned when it comes to being in God's house. I am strengthened when I am with God's people. I have plenty of time for my family outside of church/work/shopping/taking care of the ranch.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on February 22, 2007, 04:45:36 PM
Quote from: take a praise break on February 22, 2007, 04:38:14 PM

the Bible says not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together... which everyone I know interprets that to be church....

.....I am strengthened when I am with God's people.

And this is the difference.  Myself and many I know do not interpret that scripture to mean church services because that is not what the Bible specified it to mean.  It's simply the assembling of ourselves.  You nailed it.  We are strengthened when we are with God's people.  And some of us add to that sentence and say, whether it's in church services or other settings.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on February 22, 2007, 05:19:53 PM
I'm kinda thinking that when I meet a Christian friend or two at a coffee shop we're assembling together. Not that I would exchange that for church, but it's a nice add-on. And honestly, I often get more encouragement and feel strengthened more by that type of setting than I do at church. When you're in a ministry family you're 'making' church happen. You can't just be there.

That's my  :twocents:

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: RandyWayne on February 22, 2007, 05:54:50 PM
QuoteAnd this is the difference.  Myself and many I know do not interpret that scripture to mean church services because that is not what the Bible specified it to mean.  It's simply the assembling of ourselves.  You nailed it.  We are strengthened when we are with God's people.  And some of us add to that sentence and say, whether it's in church services or other settings.

Thats a crucial point in that I have always gotten far far more out of smaller, more intimate meetings and groups.  And yes, even one on one.

Part of it is physiological on my part since we entered the church just as I was turning 13 and beginning the 7th grade.  It was literally the very worst year of my life as school was horrible and on top of that, we had 'revival' services three out of four weeks!  Meaning that on top of the "clearly biblical and required" Sunday morning/evening/Wed night/Friday youth service, there was ALSO services on Thursday and Sat night!  And "when the doors were open, you were expected to be there!"  All I wanted to do was lock myself in my room after school, but instead was being dragged off to service after service after service.  Yes it did scar me just a tiny bit.

I look at this time and see how God got me through it DESPITE all the services, not because of them. 

Now, I see the church SERVICE as almost a business meeting because the church IS us.

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 22, 2007, 08:49:29 PM
Quote from: MellowYellow on February 22, 2007, 04:45:36 PM
And this is the difference.  Myself and many I know do not interpret that scripture to mean church services because that is not what the Bible specified it to mean.  It's simply the assembling of ourselves.  You nailed it.  We are strengthened when we are with God's people.  And some of us add to that sentence and say, whether it's in church services or other settings.

RIGHT!

"Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together."  Assembling = getting together in the same place.  Yourselves = you and at least one other Christian.  That's it - nothing about it being a larger meeting, at a specific time on a specific day, for a specific duration, occurring at a specific frequency, in a specific building, and always including specific activities.  Those details are not stipulated because they cannot be mandated.  Different people at different times in their lives have different needs, and will require varying amounts of fellowship, instruction, etc.

Getting together with a brother or sister for coffee is just as much "church" as the 10:00 Sunday morning meeting at the local house of worship.  When we do that, we're still obeying the basic principle in this verse: that we should not neglect our need, or our brothers' and sisters' needs, to spend time together - encouraging one another, stimulating one another to love and good deeds, instructing one another, praising the Lord and praying together, etc.

Hebrews 10:23-25:
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful;
24 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds,
25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: nicolejoy on February 22, 2007, 10:49:50 PM
And "forsaking not" also means "Don't NEVER do it". So technically, someone who goes to church once a month is still "forsaking not". Not that that is good, by any means!! But that scripture is one of the MOST taken out of context scriptures I know!!

And everything else I was going to say has already been said by other people ;) You can "assemble together" ANYWHERE - not just in church service...

Pretty much what that scripture is saying, if I may paraphrase, is more along the lines of "Do not isolate yourself from other believers" - NOT "You have a biblical mandate to attend every church service that your pastor sets".
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: RandyWayne on February 22, 2007, 11:54:58 PM
QuoteAnd "forsaking not" also means "Don't NEVER do it". So technically, someone who goes to church once a month is still "forsaking not". Not that that is good, by any means!! But that scripture is one of the MOST taken out of context scriptures I know!!

Actually, the way it is worded, if you 'assembled' ONCE in your whole life you would be obeying scripture, at least on a purely semantic scale (but would obviously be denying the spirit it was written in).  But you are 100% right.  There is NOTHING proclaiming the frequency and length of services and any attempt to read into scripture, any such command, is flat out wrong.
How many other things in life also fall into the whole area of taking scripture out of context in order to say "this is how it is going to be!"?

 
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on February 23, 2007, 12:54:45 AM
Quote from: nicolejoy on February 22, 2007, 10:49:50 PM
Pretty much what that scripture is saying, if I may paraphrase, is more along the lines of "Do not isolate yourself from other believers" - NOT "You have a biblical mandate to attend every church service that your pastor sets".

Amen - good stuff!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Heather on February 23, 2007, 04:47:51 PM
like i have said previously....we have 1 service at 2 for a few reasons. the biggest being that ALOT of our saints including our Pastor works night shift. also it's easier to get someone to visit your church in the afternoon in my opinion. some of our youth especially do kind of a 'church swap'. i'll visit your church with you sunday morning if you'll visit my church with me in the afternoon. and it works...in our area and for the people in our area. now go 30 minutes down the road and maybe their needs are different from ours. also being in a kinda 'rural' area...we have some people who drive quite a bit.

and as far as assembling with other believers...it applies to both church and out of the santuary. WE, the people are the church, not the building. if we get together and fellowship with other believers during the week, then yes we can have 'church' per say. just this week on 2 different nights matt and i had dinner with 2 different couples from church.

to take a praise break: i have been keeping up with this topic because it intrigues me. while no you haven't come out and said 'i think you all are wrong for only one service' you've pretty well just tippy-toed around saying it. what works for you can greatly vary to what works for the person 2 blocks down the street. with that said i'm gonna have to leave this topic alone. i don't think anyone is right or wrong for having 1 or 2 services on sunday.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Dew-Ax-238 on February 23, 2007, 11:53:48 PM
another reason why we only have ONE service on Sundays is because my Pastor is 75 and his wife is 73.  When you have a church full of "older" saints" you have to take them in to consideration, plus with the ones who drive and HOUR plus it just makes more since for us to have 1 service on Sundays.. It works out wonderful... you are NOT rushed to get out.. because you are "worried about the "roast" burning or which church is going to get to Bob Evan's or where ever faster..
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: faithinjesus on March 07, 2007, 05:28:36 AM
Ok, so I have just finished reading the first 5pages of this discussion. What a challenge LOL

Anyways I can understand both sides. Here in Perth, Australia we have two services on Sunday and a Wednesday night bible study. Then I have bible school on Tuesday. I get sooooo exhausted from Sunday services. Mostly because I am out with friends and fellowshipping with youth from another UPC church on a Saturday. I am all for 2 services but alot of the time we dont do any fellowshipping in between.

This is a normal Sunday for me    1. Leave house at 8.00am
                                              2. Arrive at church at 8.30am and get ready for Sunday School (I teach every second week)
                                              3. When the pianist arrives at about 9am I go downstairs and go over the songs for the morning
                                                  (I play the drums every Sunday AM & PM)
                                              4. Then I pray at 9.30am and go up on the pulpit ready to start drumming.
                                              5. The worship service finishes about 10.30am and then I go upstairs and teach Sunday School.
                                              6. Then I finish cleaning up after the kids at about 12.30pm and get home at 1pm.
                                              7. I have a quick lunch and then I either organize the next SS lesson or catch a 2hour nap
                                              8. I get up about 4pm and run around getting ready for choir practice
                                              9. I arrive back at church at 5.30pm and have choir practice until 6.30pm.
                                            10. Then I practice the drums for the worship service for 15min and then the worship service starts at 7pm.
                                            11. It goes til about 7.45pm and then preaching finishes about 8.45pm.
                                            12. Then we go home to bed.

I love my Sunday night services but I am absolutely zonked on Monday mornings because my body has just had such an overload of church.

Somone posted a while back about the need for fellowship and how we seem to get all these young people in but why do we so easily and quickly loose them. You know why? Because if they dont have people in the church to fellowship with on a Friday and Saturday night, where are they gonna go? To nightclubs and out to the pub with workmates. I have personally experienced the hardships of not having fellowship, especially on the weekends.

Our youth group consists of about 5 people so we dont have many BUT that 5 can still make a difference. We dont have to be in church to feel encouraged. Some of the most intimate and amazing times I have had with people have been at someones house just sitting on the couch discussing topics. The other night I was sitting with friends and we were just discussing the world and the things that its going through at the moment and it was so interesting. We also talked about divorce and remarriage and where it all fits into the church and what is and isnt accepted. It was great to hear views of other people and look in the bible TOGETHER to find the answers.

I love just sitting with friends and discussing things. I also love going to youth group and picnics and just having plane FUN. I think we become so 'involved' with church and all of its 'amazing' programs that we forget why we are really there. Are we going to church to be involved in a program or an organization or are we there to worship God. I feel that sometimes I would just like to sit at home in a comfy chair and just read my bible. Sometimes that is one of the most growing times in our relationship with the Lord.

Anyways I could say heaps more but my fingers are tired from typing :) LOL

Ciao, Em
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Jennie-lynnie on March 07, 2007, 10:05:16 PM
We only have one service on Sunday at 2:00pm. And I am STILL on overload!! Since I am in the music ministry I am expected to be there Monday night for prayer. Then music practice for 2 hours on Wed. night. Then we have church on Thursday. If I miss Wed. night practice I cannot play the piano on Sunday. They are also starting to crack down on people in ministry missing monday night prayer. I am only 19 years old, married with a 7 month old baby and am pregnant with my second. I have had all day sickness this entire pregnancy. Sunday I didn't want to go to church but my husband got angry and so I ended up going to please him. I was in the bathroom the ENTIRE church service getting sick!

Also my husband works third shift. So when he gets home at 7:30 am he goes to bed and get's up just in time for church. (mon. wed. and thurs.) And then when we get home it is time for him to go back to work!

I have been feeling so discouraged lately! I don't get to spend hardly anytime with my husband. Then when I miss church because I am at home throwing up for hours I lose my chance to play music. Which is something that God has given me for his glory! We never have time to sit down as a family and eat dinner. It's always grabbing some greasy fast food so that my hubby isn't late for work!

Someone please give me advice here! How do I manage to keep my house clean/dishes/laundry, take care of a 7 month old, throw up all day, go to church 4 days a week and 2 hours early on Sunday for music, eat dinner with my hubby, and spend time with my hubby?!?!?! I'm on TOTAL overload here! Ugh.



Sorry for venting. LOL. Any advice/ and prayer would be greatly appreciated! :D*
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: myhaloisintheshop on March 07, 2007, 10:19:01 PM
Jennie when Clint and I married and was expecting baby number 2 I was in that exact spot.  It is very discouraging.  I was horribly sick and it seemed like everyone expected so much from me.

Ask for help.  Ask for someone to come over and help get everything "caught up" -- it helps soooo much.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on March 07, 2007, 10:28:15 PM
Sister, the dishes can wait till you have a spurt of non-nausea.  Likewise with the laundry.  Use more paper plates and cups?  Other than that, just acknowledge that the 'wifely/motherly' expectation is unrealistic and do what you can.  It will not hurt your childrens' pysche to have a less kempt house, it will having an overexhausted mother though.  I don't know how your marriage is but the same should apply there. 

Maybe you could look into some aromatherapy things that fight nausea?  It may sound crazy but smells can effect our body a lot.  Used right, it can really help!

I don't know if those things are helpful Sister but you are wonderful, I just want to say that.  This is a trying time but don't let it diminish you.  I will be praying for you this week.

Many mothers take a break from church duties to tend to their family, have you considered that?  We all need time of refreshing where our responsibilities shift.  I took a break from church cleaning when I had my second child for a bit.  It's ok to do that, sometimes it's what God even wants.  Seek Him.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Envelope on March 07, 2007, 10:45:49 PM
Mellowyellow is right on!!  (as usual)..........   :thumbsup2:

Of course I am totally NOT in the ministry........I don't teach sunday school, I DO occasionally sing for alter service or for the Praise team on sunday night (It's not a REAL praise team, but it's the best our Home mission church can do!!) 

I can TOTALLY understand what you describe as a "crackdown" on the "ministry folk" simply because soooo many people just find useless excuses to miss prayer mtg/and/or church.  I truly think your minister would understand if he's unaware of your situation, but realistically, if he "lets one he'd have to let them all".  I cannot speak from the minister's behalf..........but Honestly I can understand his point of view.

One thing that REALLY helped me with fixing meals (I still occasionally do this) Is cook something up for the evening and put it in the refridgerator and then just re-heat in the microwave when it's dinner time.  that way, you can cook when you're not feeling horrid----in case you're feeling horrid later...........

My house is NOT spotless!!!  In FACT, it is indeed sometimes a DISASTER!!  I'm not bragging.....because I don't LIKE it being that way, but the HONEST fact about it.......is that I cannot do it ALL........All the time!!!!!  I do what HAS to be done.........like laundry, but sometimes the dishes DO wait..........and sometimes there IS clutter everywhere!!  I can clean for an hour and 2 seconds later it's destroyed by 2 toddlers!!!!  (I am Making them pick up some, because I want them to learn how to help out!!) 

There are DAYS when I've spent the entire DAY in the rocking chair rocking a sick child!!!  There's times when I've been toooo sick to do anything except lay on the couch and ONLY do the necessities such as feeding them or getting them a drink!!!

It helps because I have a GREAT GREAT husband!!  He is AWESOME when I've had the above described days!! 

sharon
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: TiffanyJ on March 08, 2007, 07:34:08 PM
Jennie I can TOTALLY understand where you are coming from. Me and my husband are sooo spent its crazy. As for me....I am the Music Director which includes haveing praise team practices and choir practices and I play the keyboard all the time, we teach sunday school on wed night...My husband is the youth leader and we try to organize an activity once a month for them. We are also both heavily involved in our childrens ministry dept which puts on a big crusade once a month. I go to the ladies meeting/prayer on Monday nights, outreach on Thursday nights ...both of these are only once a month,and ofcourse I work a full time job too. As for my husbands schedule he works at a bank, he's the youth leader, he drives the bus on wed night, teaches sunday school on wed night, comes for outreach, goes to the mens prayer/leadership meeting once a month, holds a Bible Study at a nursing home once a month, takes a college class one night a week, and his boss just recently told them they need to start getting out in the community more so he is going to have to join kiwanis which meets once a week. We are about to go insane and getting ready to have a baby!!! I have recently backed out of doing choir and childrens ministry just because I just can't do it. My dad is really wanting Josh to take more initiative so he could eventually be assistant pastor but its just crazy!!! How do you juggle a career, school, family, and a ministry. I think some people that don't do a lot just do not understand. I don't know about the other churches but in our church 10 percent of the church do the majority of the ministry and work of the church. I feel like Church is a job for us...and I shouldn't feel that way.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Envelope on March 08, 2007, 08:52:44 PM
Tiffany you're so right about that 10% comment..........soooo true........

I guess even though my husband and I aren't in the ministry, we're still as involved with stuff as can be.

This winter with the first big snowstorm, my husband and Dad were the ONLY 2 (besides the pastor----who shouldn't HAVE to) to show up to shovel snow!!  I even helped for a few hours!! 

The second Ice storm, SAME as above!!!  Dad and Hubby showed up!! 

Third snow storm, my hubby was it!!  LOL

My husband goes across the street (our pastor has a second house.....that happens to be across the street from our house) and that's where the church van sits........and starts the van on Sunday mornings, so the lady doing bus route doesn't freeze (and to make sure it'll start as it is an older van).  It was SOOOO NICE to hear her tell us Thank you for doing that!!  I realize it's a small thing, but every little thing is important, even the unseen things...........

We're on the church cleaning list............(got more than we bargained for this past week, but I won't go into it here...) LOL............about every 5-6th week is our turn.  About 2-3 Wks it doesn't get done, because some certain people always "forget" it's their turn..............joy joy............

My husband and I are just the "behind the scenes" no glory, no nothing.........we just want to see God move in every service......We do NOT hang around for Hours of counseling at church........we just Go to church, worship, and try to stay out of the pastor's office kinda people..........LOL  Our pastor jokes he wishes he had 10 more couples just like us......

I have seen folks DRAIN a pastor...........so we just try to make his life easier.  Our pastor has to work a full time job (because our church is too small to support someone full- time.....)  He has enough stress at his Secular job!!

Anyway, it's alll WAY off topic......................LOL

sharon

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Raecheal on March 09, 2007, 02:03:46 PM
Thank God for folks like you Sharon..  Every pastor wants more of them. ;)
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Envelope on March 09, 2007, 02:44:52 PM
Thanks Rae.............I wasn't looking for a compliment.....but thank you.......

We had fellowship dinner after church last night.........and it was GREAT!!  I got some much needed time with some GROWN UPS!!!  LOLOL

It was SOOO totally LATE when we got to bed!!  LOL, but so worth it!!!

sharon

I must admit, I've been LAX about prayer meetings, but I've made a new resolve, to try to ALWAYS go.  We'll see how that goes!!  I guess sometimes I've just felt like it wasn't worth the effort to drag my 2 kids to the church to pray when I'd end up constantly getting on to them about not playing and visiting, but I need to make a better effort!!

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on March 09, 2007, 03:52:11 PM
you all are getting to a big factor.  This was on mind this morning about this thread:

Faithfulness is a huge help in our lives.  Even when we don't feel spiritual, even if we're nauseaus, we can pray.  This is a powerful thing even though we aren't feelin it at the moment.  I encourage you Jennie, if you are struggling with this, and I don't expect a response because it's not my business, but if you are, out of all the house work and self maintenance, keep your prayers faithful.  Maybe you can't study much, but make sure you read every day. 

I have heard these things for years but there comes a time when you realize your salvation really is dependent on these things.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: TiffanyJ on March 09, 2007, 07:39:18 PM
Well I was informed by my dad last night that he is stripping us of some of our responsibilities lol. He said that we do too much so we have to give up some stuff. Horrible thing is its hard to give up stuff...I have always done this cuz I am a pk....guess I always thought it was expected of me. Its hard to give up things that I enjoy so much plus worry that someone else won't put in the effort that you did....but I guess you have to. Other people need the opportunity to be involved in ministry. What drives me crazy is because we do so much my dad tries to put us on salary and I just can't do that...I guess because its my dad. I feel like people would say he is just paying us because we are family. I agree with Mellow. You have to set priorities for yourself. I sat down with my husband and both of us said the prayer meetings were number one because if we don't do that then God will never bless us, besides the fact that if you are going to minister to others you have to have some strength yourself. What do you have to give if you have no time of prayer and reading the Bible. The next thing on our priority list is outreach...reaching out to others ...the other stuff is just added stuff and we can leave some of it behind. You have to know what your boundaries are...if you keep pushing and pushing yourself you may not have a marriage...and if you don't have a marriage you may not have that effective of a ministry. Anyways thats my thoughts on the matter.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Mrs.Wilson on July 12, 2007, 06:02:53 AM
We have an afternoon service because the building we are renting shares a parking lot with the church next door to us.  So, the parking lot is always too full for us to use it for Sunday morning or evening.  We have bible study Thursday nights, taking turns each week at different houses of the saints.  And we have Daughters of Zion the first Monday of every month at one lady's house.  lol Needless to say we have a very small church right now.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on July 12, 2007, 04:36:51 PM
Quote from: Mrs.Wilson on July 12, 2007, 06:02:53 AMNeedless to say we have a very small church right now.

Cherish that.  At every phase there is something special, being small allows for an incredible intimacy and unity if people are really trying. 
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Tricia Lea on March 25, 2008, 03:15:55 PM
I know this is an old thread but I seen it being viewed and well.....


Our church is now considering going to afternoon services only, due to the cost of gas.
  I was wondering are any others going that route now?
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on March 25, 2008, 07:58:28 PM
there are so many Tricia!  There are so many advantages, like meetings and practices before and after aren't so early and late.  More people like to visit when they don't know the value of what they're coming for yet is worth getting up early.   Instead of getting up at the crack of dawn, rushing around for you and your family, you can actually have breakfast together- as a family.  It's sweet, sometimes that's the only day folks have and church should be conducive to family, because our families are already conducive to church!

I went to a church that changed to those times and we went to a church who already did that, it made way for so much more fellowship, and better Monday mornings...lol
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: MsJennJenn on March 25, 2008, 08:58:07 PM
I dunno- as tired and exhausted as I am on Mondays- I wouldnt trade my two-service Sundays for anything. I get SO much more on Sundays having 2 services then I think I would if we only had one.
I absolutly LIVE for BOTH Sunday services!
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Backseat Radio on March 26, 2008, 12:08:42 AM
I wish sometimes that there was a decent apostolic church in this area that had afternoon services.  The 2 in this area that I know have afternoon services aren't above board.

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: MelodyB on March 26, 2008, 12:14:06 AM
Quote from: MsJennJenn on March 25, 2008, 08:58:07 PM
I dunno- as tired and exhausted as I am on Mondays- I wouldnt trade my two-service Sundays for anything. I get SO much more on Sundays having 2 services then I think I would if we only had one.
I absolutly LIVE for BOTH Sunday services!

I agree with Jenn. I dont want to have just afternoon services.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Babs on March 26, 2008, 12:18:18 AM
only thing that bothers me about afternoon services and i may have said this earlier dont remember, but the lost folks know services have always been morning and nights, and to me if the church never is open when sinners can find it open then we are only catering to the saints.

there was a church in houston i attended, and they went to afternoon services, and they got a letter in the mail from someone who had gone by the church for several weeks and it was always closed, they were raised in church but had left when they left home, then at a point in their life they wanted to find God again, the church wasnt there.

otherwise i dont care what time of day i have church i can worship morning noon or night
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Backseat Radio on March 26, 2008, 12:23:21 AM
I do think if a church is going to change service times they should plainly advertise that the service time has been changed because of things like that.  I don't mind what time a church holds services.  What annoys me is when the sign or advertisement in the paper says one time and when I show up there's no service and  no forseeable reason for there not to be service (like bad weather).

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on March 26, 2008, 02:49:42 AM
I agree BSR, there should be service times on the door or church sign anyway.  I can't imagine someone coming by a church for weeks and not calling at any point. 

I found that when I really give my all in the morning service, I am literally exhausted at the pm service.  It's not a matter of spirituality, I mean literally physically.  God moves in a such a powerful way, and the preaching is so deeply wonderful, that I'm just still in awe, still taking in the AM- like all day.  Otherwise you kind of have to pace yourself cause you know you're coming back, or by the night time service, you worship- but you are too wore out, emotionally, and physically to do it all over again.   I wondered for a while if it was too much to give and receive so much in one service but it's NOT.  Your brain is full, you are still savoring what was preached in the AM.  That's me though, I don't deny I'm weird...lol   :updown:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Sis on March 26, 2008, 02:54:49 AM
The sign thing is difficult for those of us who are renting space. We only have one service now, and I wish it was in the afternoon. But the pastor's wife wants to have it in the morning then have the rest of the day to themselves. *Shrug* Many times if I don't feel too great in the morning, I'm ok by noon. Would love to have 2 pm services, since we already only have one.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Backseat Radio on March 26, 2008, 10:03:58 PM
Even an advertisement in the newspaper about the service time change would be better than nothing as far as getting the word out.


Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Sis on March 26, 2008, 10:53:29 PM
Not for those of us who read the paper a week later. And some of us have trained ourselves to ignore the ads.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Backseat Radio on March 27, 2008, 12:43:02 AM
not everyone ignores the ads.  I very commonly go through the religion section in the saturday paper to see whats happening in churches around my area.  Also when I'm looking for a church to visit I don't call them up to ask about service times.  I go to the paper, to the phone book, to their website, or drive by and look at the sign  outside the church to find out what time their services are cause one of the things I want to know is do they keep those things updated.

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Babs on March 27, 2008, 12:45:11 AM
where i live, i dont think anyone even gets the papers...........i havent read a newspaper in years lol
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Sis on March 27, 2008, 01:06:06 AM
Well, I don't read ads for other churches because I'm not interested in confusing myself with a dozen doctrines. There are three good churches near me. I have the email addys of the three churches, so if I want to go to one of them, I'll email the pastor for the times. *Shrug*
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Backseat Radio on March 27, 2008, 02:01:31 AM
I've unfortunatley found that a lot of churches will give an email address or contact form on their website but they never respond to a message thats sent through that. Thats one of my big pet peeves with churches.

As for confusing myself with different doctrines,  I've found online discussions of various doctrines to be more confusing than what actual churches in my area teach.  I've actually learned quite a few helpful things from non oneness pentecostal churches in my area.

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: gabbtastic on March 27, 2008, 02:32:43 AM
Sunday evening is like our saints service...... Sunday morning is for the unsaved, its mostly an evangelical service, Wednesday night is teaching..... i would miss not having Sunday nights..... Sunday mornings I'm more worried about praying with other ppl who need the holy ghost and stuff and i need my prayer time for me at church haha
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Sis on March 27, 2008, 03:22:45 AM
Quote from: gabbtastic on March 27, 2008, 02:32:43 AM
Sunday evening is like our saints service...... Sunday morning is for the unsaved, its mostly an evangelical service, Wednesday night is teaching..... i would miss not having Sunday nights..... Sunday mornings I'm more worried about praying with other ppl who need the holy ghost and stuff and i need my prayer time for me at church haha

Back home ours was the opposite. LOL  Sunday morning was Sunday School, Sunday evening was evangelical service and Wednesday was Bible study. I miss it a lot.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: MsJennJenn on March 27, 2008, 03:49:21 AM
thats how ours is Gabbs-

Sunday Morning is evangelical-its when we have the most visitors.
Sunday Night is home folk preaching- he talks mainly to church members.
Wednesday night is like sunday school- its when we have all our classes. its teach night.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: gabbtastic on March 27, 2008, 05:18:44 AM
its not exactly like Sunday school.... idk how to describe its kinda like an adult class lo idk i havent been up there in almost a yr since i teach my own class wed nights o and wed night is  also when new preachers get 15 min to preach till they get certified lol
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Sis on March 27, 2008, 06:26:12 AM
Oh I forgot to add when we all have Bible study on Wednesday (back home) There is Children's church going on down stairs. After the song service the kids are dismissed to Children's church.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Backseat Radio on May 20, 2008, 03:55:46 PM
The church I go to now has sunday morning service and an informal bible study in the basement of the church on Wednesday night. Then Bro Tony does Bible studies at various folks houses thru the week.  Bro Tony wants to start up a Sunday night service but I'm not sure with the size group we have that it wouldn't wear out folks more than help.  We have about 8 adults - including myself.


Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Melody on May 20, 2008, 07:52:05 PM
One thing that we have been doing lately is being able to actually fellowship with folks outside of service on Sunday nights.  It has blessed my soul so much.  Topics come up and sometimes it's life, sometimes it's Biblical stuff, and sometimes it's the laughter that we all need so badly.  Last Sunday, we went with 2 other families to hit a softball around and then got some supper together.  Not only did my Sunday include hearing the Word from the pulpit but I felt the Word in action in fellowship.  And it was not only a day of rest for my soul, but an_actual_day_of_rest!  hahaha.
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Backseat Radio on July 28, 2008, 01:11:15 AM
I've been reading back thru this thread since my pastor finally came up with "we're doing an evening service now" and I've been noticing a trend.   For so many of us we're so involved with "doing" church (church services, prayer meetings, sunday school, leadership meetings, fund raisers, ect) that its become a dread to us rather than a joy.  I've noticed that in myself with having sunday evening service and teach sunday school piled on me.  I'm so wore out physically, mentally, and emotoinal that I don't give out my best.  Have we as the church piled more things on our plates than we really can handle? 

Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: titushome on July 28, 2008, 02:23:41 PM
Quote from: bsr on July 28, 2008, 01:11:15 AM
Have we as the church piled more things on our plates than we really can handle? 

Wow - what timing!  My wife asked this same question (more or less) just last night.

It's starting to feel like we have so much activity in our lives - most of it church-related - that it's putting a strain on our family.  Is it really God's design that church-related activities should consume a majority of our free time?
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: SippinTea on August 03, 2008, 12:38:18 AM
Quote from: titushome on July 28, 2008, 02:23:41 PM
Quote from: bsr on July 28, 2008, 01:11:15 AM
Have we as the church piled more things on our plates than we really can handle? 

Wow - what timing!  My wife asked this same question (more or less) just last night.

It's starting to feel like we have so much activity in our lives - most of it church-related - that it's putting a strain on our family.  Is it really God's design that church-related activities should consume a majority of our free time?

Is it indeed? *ponders*

:beret:
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: apsurf on August 03, 2008, 08:43:54 AM
hmm.....I just got to wondering and adding up all the times I am supposed to be in service on sunday, morning service,  1 service on the afternoon (either the wilburton or mcalester churches) and then 1 on sunday nights.  (That's down from the 5 I was having to go to on sundays!!!)

Nowdays I usually go to 1 on sun morning and sleep till about 2 pm and go for a hour in the afternoon somewhere and then back to sleep till monday.  (that's the only time I get any decent sleep due to work in the midweek now.)

There are days I am grateful for the chance to go to all the services, but sometimes just that one morning service is more than enough, especially depending on how tired I am.   I do wish sometimes the morning service was a little longer, as I usually doze off about 10:10 am....(after working all night)
Title: Re: Sunday Evening Services
Post by: Jennie-lynnie on August 07, 2008, 07:16:32 PM
I was going back and re-reading my posts in here. I find my posts about how church had became such an overload. Well just thought I'd update that I have gotten past that now. If you remember I said how we had church Sunday (music at noon, prayer and 1:30 and church at 2:00), then prayer on Monday, then music on Wed., then church on thursday. Well, a while back I sat down with my pastor's family and explained to them that everything was just too much and church was becoming a burden so to speak. (especially since back that I had one baby and was pregnant again.) Well the talk went really well and we starting changing some things. We shortened practice on sunday so now I don't have to be there until one (That's a whole hour cut out). And we completely took out the wed. music practice. We now have music practice the first monday every month after prayer (prayer is from 6-7 and music from 7-8.) This has taken soooo much of the stress of my shoulders. And I know enjoy the work I do in the church! I am now only there Sunday, Mon, and Thurs. Just thought I would share. Those of you who are overwhelmed, maybe you need to sit down and express this to your pastor.