We had church some time ago in a small theatre in Port Perry. The minister was an actor and comedian. It was an unusual opportunity to meet and worship with fellow christians in town. We had a powerful time of worship led by the Ascension worship team followed by several stories and skits by Dennis Hassell. The audience was spellbound. There was much audience participation so it was hardly a typical church service. Each story or “parable” was filled with humour but also had a profound message that made you think. If you were unable to be there enjoy the video below to get a taste of Mr Hassell’s style.
One of his stories about St Hilaria church was filled with pathos and humour but also had a very relevant message about how we do church. St. Hilaria was 100 years old but it burned down one day. There was much sorrow and tears but the congregation kept meeting outdoors for the whole summer. The Church building was surrounded with apartment dwellers most of whom had never been in the church. However the tragic fire changed everything. Many came to help. The outdoor services allowed the people to stand on their balconies and for the first time in their lives see folks worshipping , praying and sharing. Seniors held bible studies in the local club before the ladies of the night took over. Relationshjips were developed and some of these ladies joined the seniors in the bible study. The council met in a restaurant. Sunday school was in a park across the road. Many adults and children were baptized and the church grew from 59 members to 425 that summer. When the insurance money came in the congregation had a special service and the oldest member of the congregation, a 99 year old lady wanted to say a few words and leave a gift to the church in a carefully crafted box. In the box? A small box of matches.
Dennis Hassell, you made us think!
The service ended with pastoral prayers and worship.
My observation is that any non christian would have felt comfortable( except maybe with the vibrant worship) and welcome last night. How do they feel if they come to our church? Do our church neighbours know what happens in our “sanctuary” and do they know who we are?
Do we “reformed” christians even know what happens in the other denominations in town?
What do you think?
