So when I point this out, you say it’s not just your congregation, that its others, moreover, its for other reasons – like social issues. But in your first comment you said:

“The reason my YA friends are leaving are not because of political issues but because they’re frustrated with the continued limitations faced in our home congregations.”

My congregation doesn’t limit YA. The church in general doesn’t seem to limit YA (heck I think there is even a young punk who is president of the Chigago Mission Center). If you are speaking generally, I just want to square up what you’re saying with what I see. If you are speaking about your particular area/congregation, then I’m happy to discuss that, but when I asked specifically about what your problems were there, when it seems like you are able to participate in most, if not all areas, you get defensive and change you argument.

I’m sorry your experience is not a positive one. If I could understand your issue, I might be able to help. But it doesn’t seem like you really understand it.

I’m working on the problem, be sure of that. I’m driving a long, long way to visit Margie. I’m speaking out. I’m doing what I can. There are still roadblocks and frustrations along the way.

We’d be delighted to hear your sermon.

Truly. My largest complaint locally is that I want something more, something deeper in church. But it’s a pattern I’ve seen in so many places. And I hear my friends despairing of the same concerns.

One in particular planned a service that was too offensive, (it was not, not at all) and was refused the chance to share it.

So it’s not the title, it’s not the role, but the willingness of the congregation to accept service.

I don’t think it’s the case in your congregation (whew, their schedules make me tired!), but so often the young adults are written off, because they’re not attending often enough, and very few people think that it’s possible to get them to attend. Frankly, that attitude drives YA away farther. In fact, it was youth rather than YA, but a church leader said a few years ago that there were “no youth in the church.” With about 12 of them sitting close enough to kick him. They should have, too.

Who would want to invest time into a church that isn’t even thankful they’re in attendance?

If we are to have more money, we need more givers, not more from those already giving. So, let’s be a vibrant ministry. I honestly believe that people can’t help but be drawn by the Light of Christ, if we’re sharing it. I’ve seen it happening in congregations that have been able to do this. There’s no missionary work, just the Light drawing them in.

I hoep it’s clear that I have a testimony and ministry to share. It has been quite simply refused by those who hear it. At some point, I will have to choose to go elsewhere. I cannot be silent.