Some interesting Church experiences

I have visited two churches so far. One is Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene, and I went to their 8:15 a.m. Word and Table Liturgucal service. It was very intresting, with processions, reaponsive readings, robes, a mini-sermon and eucharist. They really seemed sincere, and theologically it was hard to argue with, but it seemed really awkward, and there seemed to be no sense of community whatsoever. This is unfortunate... any thoughts from anyone on this type of service going on in a Nazarene church?I think it is a good idea... but have weird thoughts about it...

The other community I have joined that last two weeks is jacob's well. It is a very young (6yrs.) church plant that meets in an old presbyterian building. they have an indie-rock style of worship band, eucharist every week, and Tim Keel's sermons are very interactive. I went to a book discussion on Hauwerwas' "Resident Aliens" friday night, and the people here just seem to be really intense disciples. Myself and others who have been going with me really sense a belinging among them, and I will be sharing a lot of what I learn from this church and its history, life an people. Peace~Thomas

Kansas City

Just an update for those who are reading... Jake Edwards, Brian Schafer and myself are down in Kansas City right now. We have moved into a new place, just between the borders of the ghetto, and the "nice" areas that breach downtown. Jake has been in class, and Brian and I start this next Tuesday - we are pretty excited!

A Note on our living quarters that you may or may not like:

As I looked forward to moving here, I knew that we had to have a real place of community, study and life. I thought naming this place would be an appropriate way to name our life toegether, and and adorning the aprtment would set the context for living this life: ouronos.

"Ouronos", the Greek word for "the heavens", or "the skies", is associated with the concept of the realm of mystery, the realm between God's abode and the earth and its creatures. It is a location you wonder about, but have more questions about than answers. As we are moving into a new pahse of our journey, into the mysteries of God, this seems to be a good image for us to live in...