Sunday, December 9, 2007
St Luke’s United Church of Christ
Ottsville PA
Grade: B
Think about a congregation from a Norman Rockwell painting, when life was a little less complex because everyone seemed to have the same core values and beliefs. Think Mayberry from the old Andy Griffith T.V. shows. Think peaceful, kind, considerate, non-offensive folks, who care for one another.
Most of the congregation is white, middle aged, and elderly, with a few exceptions. Families with children were also in attendance. When it comes to attire, it’s anything from casual, business dress casual, to suit and tie. Everyone looked prim and proper.
You are going to find a small church, compared to some of the newer churches. The décor is classic. Wooden floors, wooden pews, balcony, modest decorations, a good old fashioned church. This is the kind of church that you would see on a holiday greeting card.
The church is located in Ottsville, PA, about 12 miles north of Doylestown PA, on a country road, off Rt. 611. Check the internet for directions, and or call the church before you go.
10:25 - The majority of the cars are already in the parking lot. Most of the cars are some version of American made, mid size to full size.
10: 28 - I walk into the Sanctuary. I’m greeted with “Good Morning”, from friendly people. Bob Stanfield gives me a church bulletin, as I take my seat in the Last Pew.
10: 30 – Chimes ring. Organ starts to play traditional music. Mrs. Claudette Kipp is a very good organist.
10:35 - The Service starts, announcements are made. Prayer requests are given, along with an invitation for guests to meet after the service for fellowship and refreshments.
10:40 – We are instructed to give the sign of peace to one another. Folks walking around shaking hands, making small talk for a couple of minutes. People went out of the way to shake my hand.
10:42 – Don Houston gives a reading from the Bible.
10:43 – The sermon for children is given. Pastor Tom gave a message that was of value to all of us.
10:50 – Organ music is played. We all sing and pray. Look for the hand signals from Pastor Tom, when it comes to sitting or standing. If you’re not sure what to do, just do what the folks around you do.
10:56 - A group of mostly older, well dressed members of the church assemble near the organ. Hymns of a traditional nature are sung. Applauses are given, and everyone goes back to their pews.
11am – Reading from the Bible.
11:02- Pastor Tom Adil, a tall thin middle aged man with gray hair, beard, starts his sermon. P.T.M.M or Please Tell Me More is a phrase that could have been the title of his sermon. Pastor Tom is a good public speaker, who knows how to deliver a positive message from the Bible. The sermon focuses on kindness – tolerance – acceptance. Pastor Tom’s words of compassion will stay with you, long after you leave the church.
11:25 – Organ music is played as the sermon is completed. Hymns are sung, prayers are said.
11:33 – Offering plate is passed around, without any requests for money. The church bulletin has a brief summary of donations, along with requests for volunteers, financial support.
11:35 – Hymns are sung. When it comes to the right time to stand up or sit down, just follow everyone around you.
11:40 - We hear chimes. This is a sign that the service is over. Pastor Tom greets me as I leave the church, with a few seconds of friendly conversation.
Almost all of the cars stay in the parking lot, after the service is over. If you’re looking for a church, where you’re not going to get lost in the crowd this could be the church for you. Please look at the church web site, before you go to this church or any church.
Save the Last Pew for me.