A Church in Name Only

Excerpt from The Star - "The Church of England is considering opening wine bars and introducing 'loyalty cards' in a package of measures designed to make it more businesslike. They are among a range of proposals by Birmingham Cathedral, which has taken the unprecedented step of appointing a former John Lewis boss to oversee a radical change in its image and branding. Mark Hope-Urwin, the Church's first 'director of hospitality and welcome', has been asked to spearhead a new approach to attracting and retaining worshippers..."



I checked the date of the paper. Monday, 1st September 2008. Odd. It seems to fit better as a 1st April story.



Since when has Jesus ever asked us to conform to the world's standards in reaching out to people? Does the Church of England remember that we are to be in the world, but not of it?



If they really want to boost attendance, I'd suggest a simple solution that won't cost any money: PRAYER.



It's heartbreaking that these Christians actually consider turning to spirits other than the Holy Spirit to "attract and retain" "worshippers".



The "worshippers" won't be real worshippers; they won't even have a personal relationship with Jesus. They'd just be going to a novel wine bar for the sake of an interesting experience.



And think of the number of Christians and seekers who would be deceived, and disillusioned, thinking that they've found God, when in actual fact all they'll find is just another secular social club...