Church....is it necessary?
 

How do you feel about members or aspiring members who do not attend church? I know a lot of people who believe it is not necessary (and the Bible also states you can worship and show praise anywhere) and still live good lives. Also, I'm curious as if it is attendance and/or conventional religoius beliefs are considered a requirement.

Inquirer, I am so glad you elaborated. I read the topic question and was about to say....If you MUST ask....it's more necessary than you think!

But to answer your actual question, I feel that everyone should go to church at least sometimes. Sure you can worship and pray almost anywhere, afterall, God does dwell inside us (whereever we are, He is) but I don't think it's the same as actually attending His house and fellowshipping with others who want to uplift Him. To me, it would be kind of like renting movies and staying home to watch them....true, this may be rather enjoyable at times, but there's nothing like going to the movies and enjoying it with a theater full of people who are all there to have a good time along with you. AND....if someone is really spiritual and into "conventional religious beliefs" ....what would it hurt for them to step into the house of the Lord a few times a month? You know? Here and there.
People can find time to go any/every where else...... http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/rolleyes.gif

That's just my two cents worth!

I need to clarify my second question - I forgot a few words. Are attendance and/or conventional religious beliefs required for membership???

Inquirer602 the answer to your last question is NO, but if you have a problem praising the lord and rejoicing you may feel indifferent about some (and I quote 'SOME')of the things that Black Greek Lettered Organizations do at conventions and monthly chapter meetings (ie my chapter goes to church together one Sunday out of the year ... it seems like a little but it is hard getting women 2gether on specific dates- ya heard).

P.S. SMocha very well stated!! Your momma done taught you well http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/wink.gif

Oh...there's not a problem. I just have a different philosophy than most of the people I come in contact with. Some things I see as not being necessary and some things I see as more necessary than most. And, I do pray. Sometimes, though, the thought of being surrounded in a church by people whom I see on a daily (and weekend basis) smoking and drinking (excessively), cursing their teachers, and sleeping with a plentiful cornicopia of men/women - or both gives me the creeps. I feel most focused and at peace praying with myself - a person I know is doing their bes to live right. Anybody feel me on this one?

[This message has been edited by Inquirer602 (edited August 25, 2000).]

**Applause for Sexy Mocha**
I agree; well said Sexy Mocha.

Not to be funny, but what church do YOU attend Inquirer????? I mean I know EVERYONE in the church aint living right these days....but dang...come on now!And we can not let how others are living determine how we feel about the church in general. Don't mind them folks that are back sliding, you just keep doing what YOU know is right!

**Thanks for the applause http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif...my momma would be so proud of me**

I am. I was just wondering if its seen as something bad that i don't see the need to attend to live righteously.

Inquirer, I believe that issue is between you and the Lord.

Now...as far as whether or not the different BGLOs see it as acceptable/appropriate or not... I can't answer. I'll leave that to the members.

Actually, I was referring to how the members see it. I, personally, think it is fine. I was just interested in the point of view from that particular perspective.

Inquirer if I may add, if you are comfortable with the way you spiritually nourish yourself then you shouldn't worry about what others may think. Without being disrespectful, if anyone decides they want to judge based on their 'ideals' of proper religious worship thats on them. With regards to you someday becoming a member I think that if you are clear with yourself in your desires it will shine through. As many members have said if it is your time then it will happen. Good Luck my sister http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif.

Darling1, "Sista friend" is actually BROTHER FRIEND. Just thought you'd like to know http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

Mocha,

I forgot...oops. Inquirer I am sorry about that.

I responded to his post in another forum

It's perfectly fine. I love the responses of intelligent women - you give well thought out and detailed comments rather than bravado-filled blabbering - most of the time( http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif). Mocha went off on me in the other room...lol. But, its still cool. -->>> http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

Inquirer you are funny http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif. I am glad that you responded. BTW, Dang, was that girl really bad!!! E-mail me if you choose to respond to that question.

peace

Inquirer, I am soooo peeved with you right now.....I'm staying away from your posts until I regain my composure....then......I'll be myself again! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif

Chello y'all! To answer your basic question Inquirer no it is NOT a requirement to join a BGLO. My chapter is like LadyAKA's - we attend church together at least once a year. Prayer and meditation comes up on the regular and it's always a joy to see Sorors at church and whatnot. The question you pose is really up for discussion with your spiritual guide whether you call that being God, Allah or Spirit. Personally I don't know what I would do without my church fam but that's me. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/wink.gif As for the smokers and drinkers up in the church - that is to be expected! Not everyone IN the church is IN the church. Like my sisters said, don't worry about what they are doing just focus on yourself! Hope my $.08 helps. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif

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We will remember not the words of our enemies but the silence of your friends. - Martin L. King Jr.

Inquirer, I think my sorors have answered your original question, but I wanted to respond to this one also. I once felt the same way that you did. I used to be disgusted (especially when I was in college) by partying, drinking, cussing, and fornicating "chuch (I spelled it like we say it)" folks that got up on Sunday to shout to return to the same lifestyle on Monday. Then my late university chaplain gave me words of wisdom that have been stated here in so many words: Go to church to get closer to God, not to observe others. When my judgement comes, I have to give an account for my actions, just as they have to account for theirs (and none of us will be thinking about what the other did on thatday. So, now I go to church frequently, I sing on the choir, I praise the Lord in my own way, and I have eyes for no one but Him while I'm there.



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>>>"Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised... Proverbs 31:29-30

Tickledpink,
That reminds me of something someone said to me..."the church is not a hotel for saints, but a hospital for sinners." We should want the drinkers, partyers, cussers, etc. to come to church so they can get well!

So true, so true...

Everybody this is Chelle. I got a new screen name.

I have to agree with you Stunning Jade. I would not focus on what everybody else is doing or what their lifestyles are like. God welcomes all into His house.

Maybe you should look at it from this perspective. It's like going to the doctor's office. Except God is the doctor and the church is were the healing take place. For those who drink, smoke, and even drugs church is the place you need to be to be healed. When you are sick you often make an appointment with the doctor so he can prescribe medicine. But with God no appointment is necessary and the medicine is offered at one price. All he asks is that you seek to do His will. For being a follower of Christ you will pay a price but the outcome far exceeds the price you pay. All it takes is the opening of your heart, your mind and your mouth (not lipservice) and he will set you free. There is nothing he can't and won't do for His children. God has the perfect medication for all those who fall short of his word. SALVATION. Would you stop going to the doctor because when you get there you see sick people waiting in office to be seen? No. What's so different about church? Is this not a place of healing? A doctor doesn't turn away the sick because they are sick. God doesn't turn away His children because they fall short. No one is perfect but we ALL need his guidance and love. What better place to seek the medicine (the Holy Ghost) than in God's house.

One more point. If your friends invited you to their house and said I'm throwing a party can you come to my house? You'd go in a minute. God extends an open invitation to all who want to come. No invitation needed. God throws a party Monday through Sunday. In God's house it's a Holy Ghost party. He would love to have you visit in His house sometimes. You'll never go thirsty in God's house. You'll never go hungry and without shelter in God's house. Whose house would you rather be in? You mean to tell me you would turn this down? He asks of only 10% of what he gives to you. In any shape or form. Ohhhh, Watch out!!!! I feel a sermon 'comin on. All this is written in Bible. God stands behind His word. Do your friends?

Inquirer, technically no, your religious beliefs don't matter as to membership, however, if an organization like AKA for example is founded on and tries to practice christian principals then it would be hard if you didn't really agree with or respect those principals in your personal life. I find my founders desire/effort to be women who tried to follow Jesus Christ encouraging since i too am trying to live as a christian. Most were very active in their churces until their deaths. With my chapter for example we pray before every meeting, and read meditations etc. we meet in a church. but not every greek organization is like that of course. anyway i hear ya on the church full of hypocrites thang, but believe it or not there are a few churches where the members are called to truly follow the bible and they do it (daily) not just on sunday when they are all dressed up. take care.

Wow http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/eek.gif I'm suprised I haven't commented on this subject...

For some it is a matter of opinion... for me it is a matter of truth that Jesus is the center of my life... he died for my sins and paid the cost of salvation, He has purchased men for the Lord and I believe that you truly need Jesus to live a moral and ethical life in his will... Amen! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif But it is always a matter of opinion...

As for life's circumstances such as one pledging a sorority I don't feel it is necessary for someone to be a church goer, or even saved for that matter to be a part of a sorority. But you must look at the roots of black people in a baptist tradition that preached Jesus during slavery and beyond. most of the NPHC was founded by God fearing men and women who I'm sure have Godly principles in their doctrine. I do feel though (and these are personal feelings and no one elses) that it would be benificial to have a spiiritual center and I feel it happens with the embodiment of the Holy Spirit into the soul of the believer.

But you must remember that Jesus is a personal choice. When you force church down someones throat you don't have the genuine feelings of the person at heart here. If I was "forced" to be in a setting where Jesus was not being preached I would not be a happy camper...

Sexy Mocha... you hit it on the dot honey,

If you can see the basketball games on Sunday and go to work faithfully you can also give the Lord praise when you can...

Although if I am lucky enough... I want some God fearing line sisters to pray with... (hopefully)

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In complete darkness we are all the same... It is only our knowledge and wisdom that separates us... Don't let your eyes deceive you

Janet Jackson

All I have to say is that my LS was Muslim...

NO problems...