just the introduction
Since I am auditioning for an instrumental position at Blue Ridge Community Church, I was encouraged to attend Intro to Blue Ridge tonight to better understand the innerworkings of this local church. You could likely equate this class as an “ice-breaker” to nearly every aspect of why BRCC functions as it does.
Jeremiah first invited me to Blue Ridge when we were both in high school. I don’t recall what that Sunday morning service was about (although, I can remember precisely the location of the seats we chose) but I can remember clearly how friendly and pleasant everyone was. And it didn’t seem like a facade. Now, after attending regularly, when I’m in town, for almost three years, I know it’s no facade. Not only am I able to be surrounded by a bunch of volunteers who appreciate my attending at a service, but the quality and presentation of the service is fantastic. That’s a huge factor for me, especially.
“Excellence” is something that is mentioned over and over again in the Blue Ridge mantra. The classic argument against quality production in many churches (the argument that says, “well, it’s good enough”) often promotes the once-mentioned verse of the Bible that says “make a joyful noise”. And I suppose you can’t argue that, everyone has the right to make their noises; however, to entice people into a community so welcoming and inviting as BRCC, it isn’t likely that people will be drawn by “joyful noises”. Animals make joyful noises; I’ve never cosied up with an elephant though. My car even makes joyful noises; but you won’t see me staking a marriage claim out to the catalytic converter though. One aspect entirely missing in many, most even, churches of this era is the level of excellence that draws people inside the doors.
Still, once someone is inside the doors all possibilities to individual reactions to a church are capable. Yet, BRCC has taken step after step to assure and reassure visitors that they are not wanted for their money, that they are not looking for dirt to pull up on them, and that they are ever welcome and loved. One of the most-mentioned turn-offs to churches today is that the establishments just want to ring out their wallets and pocketbooks. That is a sad thing to have to approach; even having to defend a large corporation from extortion is pitiful, let alone a church.
Anyways, the point is that I’ve been constantly impressed by the quality of people and production that I see at BRCC. Thus I am wanting to get involved in some realm. Thus I am writing about it. Anyways…
Side note: Bryan is the godfather and maximum royalty of forums and his birthday is tomorrow. Send love his way.
February 28th, 2005 at 10:19 pm
Sounds like a great church! Too bad I’m not in your area - I’m looking for a church myself.