You may remember how difficult it was to get to the inner circle of your parents' church, but what great fun you have with the Sunday morning golf foursome. You may remember how the organ always reminds you of a funeral home, but how upbeat your latest compact disc sounds. Maybe all you can think of are the loud, moralizing TV preachers, but you remember the compassionate nurse who spent time with you in the hospital. You may remember how you counted the church rafters during long sermons, but how awestruck and happy you felt after seeing a great movie. You might not want to go.
Some people go to a church because they want religion or values for their children.
Others seek help with life's questions of meaning. Some are lonely in a new community and hope to find new friends. Others are thrilled at the birth of their first child and wish to learn about baptism for the baby. Some are in love and want a church wedding. Others have lost their jobs and are terrified of the future.