From: Sharon

Date: Sun, 4 Feb 2007 00:42:47 GMT

To: Bp Renato

Subject: Finding a good church

What happens when you are just tired of church?

I am a 33-year-old Christian woman, who has been a faithful member of church since the day I was born. As I grew older, I desired to really know God and his word more in-depth, because I felt I needed more than Sunday service and Wednesday worship. However, through finding great bible studies and taking a bible course, I have found that the more I gain knowledge in the Word, the more I am tired of the entertainment found in church. I feel like we are missing some real teaching in the church and instead pastors, bishops, reverends, etc. are just entertaining for the numbers, titles, and conformity. I rather attend a weekly bible study than Sunday service. This is weighing heavy on my heart, because I enjoy the fellowship in church and with church family, but I feel like I need more. And although I know I can have church anywhere, because the Lord is present with me always, I feel bad that I don’t want to go to church! I am in prayer, but sometimes God speaks through people so I was hoping someone could shed some light on this troubling situation.

Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

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Date: Mon, 5 Feb 2007 02:42:15 +0000

Subject: Re: Finding a good church

From: Bp Renato

To: Sharon

Dear Sharon,

Thank you for your sincere words. Unfortunately, what you’re saying is not only true of your experience but of many other churchgoers too. It’s a sad reality that some churches have divorced from their Lord a long time ago. Now they’re reduced to traditions and the ways of men.

What to do? I don’t have a golden solution, but here’s what I have advised sincere Christians:

• YOU are the church. YOU must have your own, personal relationship with God and not depend on anyone else.
• Church fellowship is important for spiritual growth, but not every fellowship aids growth. You must search and choose carefully the church you will attend and be committed to.
• The key characteristic of church leadership is the character of the leader — his exemplary family, his God-fearing attitude, and his passion for the souls and well-being of his people. Miracles, eloquence, degrees are not as important.
• Ask other people who know that church from long-term personal experience attending it what they have to say about it. Weigh the answers intelligently.
• Pray that God guides you to a Spirit-led church.
• Know that however good a church may be, it will never be perfect. Keep your eyes on God only, and don’t be discouraged by Christians behaving badly. Do your part and don’t look at others.

I hope this helps Sharon, and I pray that God will guide you in your search.

Please feel free to get in touch at any time.

God bless you.

Bp Renato Cardoso

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Subject: RE: Finding a good church

Date: Monday, February 5, 2007 4:22 PM

From: Sharon

To: Bp Renato

Thank you for your kind words and quick response. I will take in your advise and keep it all in prayer. I hope to visit your church this Sunday.

Thank you and Blessing.

Sharon