Sunday, April 29, 2007

The Newtown Reform Church

Newtown, PA

Grade: B

If you measure this church by attendance or size, you may think you’re in a small church.  If you measure it by friendly, active people, then you know you are in a large church.

Please note: this church was in the process of finding a full time pastor the day of my visit.

Getting stuck behind Sunday drivers on Sunday is why I was a couple of minutes late for the service.  Yours truly, was not alone, as I followed several other people into the sanctuary.  I’m very sorry for being late.

I’ll admit that I was tempted to honk my horn, maybe use sign language as I passed several of those Sunday drivers on the way into church.  It’s a good thing; I remember those bible verses, about being slow to anger.

At least one of the Sunday drivers was senior.  Giving a Grandma the finger, any finger, is not okay, especially on my way to church.

You will find this church within walking distance of the Newtown bypass, Newtown Pa.  Check the internet for directions.

The driveway curves around into a large parking lot.  Enter via the front doors.  You will find the sanctuary to the right.  It’s not a large sanctuary.  Twelve rows of pews with padding, several large windows, high ceilings, modern interior.

10:02 – I’m greeted by two friendly men, who give me a program as I enter the sanctuary.  Hymns are being sung.

10:10 – We share greeting.  Folks leave their pews to shake hands – pleasantries.

10:12 -  Hymns are sung.

10:15 -  Prayers are read – hymns are sung.

10:20 -  Readings from scripture and the sermon begins.  The interim pastor was a good public speaker with a positive message.

10:40 - Announcements are made.

10:48 - Hymns are sung.

10:50 - Service is over.

As I was leaving, a gentleman wanted to know if I could stay for fellowship.  I respectfully declined, as I do all the time. 

In summary this is a nice church, with nice people.  Not a large – mega church in size, but very large in spirit.  The folks in attendance seem to be very active in the community.

Please look at their website.  B is the grade for the Newtown Reformed Church.