I've found something in this church that is completely unique from any church I've attended. First…read moreof all, I'm new to the area. I've also attended the same church for nearly a decade (Bay Area). Subsequently, my initial feeling was a tug on my heart that said "I miss my family" even though I already knew it was time to spread my wings and find a new church home. Not just for myself, but for my daughter as well. She's 3 1/2, and is just now beginning to understand things so it's important as her mother to allow her to experience God in the way that I have.
First of all, I noticed right away that people here are not focused on how you dress. They genuinely want you to join their family as long as your there, and to just "come as you are". I was greeted by so many friendly people, many of which were wearing 49ers jerseys because it was playoffs day. Evidently, the Pastor is a football fan because he was wearing one too! Nope! No suit and tie here.
When I dropped off my daughter at the preschool classroom, it was more than obvious that she had enjoyed her time there. In fact, she didn't want to leave. One of the volunteers offered that I stay a few minutes to make sure she was settled in. I pondered it until she took off running with another kid her she laughing and playing. She was just fine. The process of signing her in and out and the badge number provided to me were every simple steps. I think some other aids has kids in the classroom as well. I felt confident and reassured leaving her in the preschool room. That's a huge step for a mom that isn't sure about such a new place herself.
The music was positively phenomenal. We sang modern day songs you'd find on KLOVE, all to the beat of a band with extremely talented singers, guitarists, bassists, keyboard player, etc along with lighting and other "bells and whistles". It was truly an experience! Love it!
The pastor didn't preach a sermon, rather a very powerful message. One that we cup if all understand. He spoke with such conviction and passion that we were on our feet clapping. His core message was simple: "you cannot see the harvest until you see the harvest". In other words: trusting in God through the hard times is recognizing the blessings He promises after the storm passes. As he spoke, he wandered up and down the isles, providing scripture and analogies, jokes that had us laughing, all with photos & scriptures posted on the monitors so we could follow along. The message felt quite personal, as should any true pastor that speaks the Word of God. I left truly impressed.
Since that day, I've attended several more times. It was music to my ears that's boyfriend wanted to come, and his two girls also wanted to attend. Typically, Sunday school comes with a lesson, then perhaps a snack and play afterward. Keep in mind this is for ages 7-9 yrs. The day they attended was Super Bowl Sunday. All classes were combined and the kids competed in games and won prizes. They had a blast. I just hope they continue to, and that they continue to want to go. Before meeting me, they hadn't ever gone to church. My boyfriend (their dad) hadn't been in a lot longer. I was so happy to have someone beside me in church.
Everyone went home happy, with one toddler crying because we were leaving, and two little girls asking if they could go next week. lol. I enjoyed the service just as much as they enjoyed their time. I'm incredibly blessed to find such a rare diamond in the city of Manteca. Although it's hard to start over, I can't help but feel right at home here.
