Finding a Spiritual "Church"

Hail and greetings, gentle readers...

As many know, we have been searching for a "church;" a place of spiritual rest and encouragement. Why is it that these searches require so much time and effort? One would think that we could look at churches and know we would find comfort there. But it is not always so.

Amazingly, the buildings don't give hints at all. One must visit, get to know the people, and even more importantly, get to know the heart of the pastor. I've met so many who hang the seminary degrees on their office walls and yet have no heart for the people under their care. I think many "burn out" and stop giving. Let's be honest, if a pastor only gives and does not learn to rest and receive, pastoring becomes a burden rather than a joy.

In our search, we never expected to be drawn to Science of Mind (or Religious Science). No, these are not the folks who don't believe in doctors. These are people who believe that there is a consciousness, energy, out there that is far beyond our simple existence. To see all as energy, consciousness, and experience our place in the greater scheme of things is difficult for me. I'm so conditioned to see just the physical and mental. To "plug into" the spiritual and see it for the vast expanse that it is is beyond my simple understanding of Spirit.

But, here we are. We have been visiting a local Religious Science "church" and have found it to be enlightening and restful for our souls. The meditation is genuine and brings a peace I've not found in other churches. The pastor has a deep understanding of Spirit and a wonderful way of sharing it intimately with the congregation. And the congregation seems open and honest.

So how do I take my religious background and meld it into this new philosophy? I haven't a clue...yet. I do know that when I leave, my spirit, mind, body and heart are refreshed. I've not felt that refreshing in many, many years. And, even though Religious Science has its own way of looking at spirituality through a particular philosophy, the church seems to embrace all who walk a spiritual path.

So maybe...just maybe...we've found a place to call our own. Maybe this is the place we've been looking for; a place we can serve and be served. Time will tell. In the meantime, we bow our heads and contemplate the Spirit and seek guidance on this wonderful path.

What path are you on? Where has it led you so far? And where do you see yourself going from here? Is there a fork in that spiritual road that calls to your heart to try something new? And if it does, are you interested enough to take a chance and step outside your comfort zone? Many questions. Many answers. Where are you?