Alternative services show strength in local churches
In the ever-changing world of religion, many churches are finding new and inventive ways to meet the needs of their congregations. Many are going above and beyond the call of duty to meet those needs, and many are turning to technology.
Ebenfeld Mennonite Brethren Church's integration of technology into their church via the "Branch" service (Feature story on page 1), is a prime example of churches that are growing and attempting to meet the needs of those who are looking to be fed religiously.
At Koerner Heights Church in Newton (where I attend), the same process is being implemented with hopes of meeting the needs of those searching for an alternative style of worship and service.
KHC, like Ebenfeld, is seeing dramatic growth within the walls of their church and is in the midst of a religious revolution in style and format. For many, these services have become a necessary outlet for faith. A "fix-a-flat" for those whose religion is losing air on the proverbial highway of life.
But in the before-mentioned situations, both churches each experienced time of reflection and communication about what it "means" to worship, in some form or another.
In the KHC situation, many became anxious about the idea of having a separate service, for fear that such a bold move might promote separation within a growing church. Thankfully, I'm happy to report that the move to two services has found a way to bring people closer together and has opened up a new venue for bringing folks into our church.
Perhaps the most incredible aspect of both church's decision to add an alternative service is that each saw a need for an alternative form of spiritual expression and ventured to fill the void that many church-goers were needing. The very act of seeing "need" in others and then attempting to meet that need is a testament to both the two churches and the religious doctrine with which they are solely based.
Eric Clark
