Has it ever occurred to you that nothing has ever occurred to God?
Isaiah 40:14
Whom did he consult, and who made him understand? Who taught him the path of justice, and taught him knowledge, and showed him the way of understanding?
If you’re thinking of going (back) to church tomorrow at a place where people don’t know you, that’s awesome. You will be welcomed. But keep in mind that churches have also been targets of violence recently, so here’s some advice to avoid making congregations nervous, advice for young men in particular:
1. Dress normal. If you typically dress like a goth or in combat boots, whatever it might be, wear something different. Fair or not, that will probably make people nervous to see a young guy in an outfit they associate with the Columbine shooters. You don’t need to wear a suit, even though it’d be awesome if you did. Just aim for business casual and you’ll be alright.
2. This isn’t a huge deal, but if you have someone you can bring with you, do. When people aren’t alone, others don’t worry that they’re lone wolves.
3. Introduce yourself to the pastor. Let him know your name and why you’re there. It will make him and the leadership a lot more comfortable if they’ve made a human connection with you before the service. (This works best if you get to church ten minutes before service or so.)
4. Participate as much as you can. If you want to worship with the congregation, ask if there is someone who can help you follow the service. (People are always happy to do this.) If you’d rather just observe, that’s fine. But make an effort to at least read what’s in the hymnals/bulletins or on the screen. Stand when the congregation stands. Sit when the congregation sits. When people stare aimlessly and don’t participate in ANY way, it’s nerve-wracking for others.
5. Ladies with purses are fine. Kids with backpacks are fine. Men, don’t bring any kind of backpack or bag into the church with you. You may know there’s nothing harmful inside. Others don’t.
Jesus wants you in church. People will be glad to see you. Just remember that they’re scared too.
@RepBeccaB I just got your email about your trip. Why are you going to Michigan when you're our Vermont representative? Who's paying for this? Are you more committed to the DNC or Vermont?