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December 23, 2009

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Dave, I couldn't agree more. For years our church has had basically the same type of Christmas Eve services, mulitple services covering two nights. Five services in a row on Christmas Eve. True, the songs change from year to year, but the basic service is the same. Some traditonal songs have been repeated from year to year. The message changes, but, as you say, who remembers? All services are packed with crowds lined up outside to get in to the next service. The usual "Creasters" are there. You know, the Easter and Christmas Christians. But we pack 'em in.
And now suddenly, we have to up the theatrics with music, fog machines and drama. We have to change more and more to add theatre. Somehow, I think the lowly Bethlehem story has been put on Broadway. And as far as the sermon goes, this is one time the same message from the year before could be preached. I'm with you. Let's have one time of the year when we can count on something being the same, if it is good, of course.
I'm swiftly tiring of change for change sake theology. Why should we be the same as the world? Who says we have to compete with other entertainment outside the church? Why can't we hold a counter cultural event that says, Christianity is something different? Christ offers something the entertainment of the world cannot. Himself!!

I agree with you in principle, but I do think people would be more inclined to remember a Christmas Eve service vice a "regular" Sunday sermon, so it could get old after only a few years, not just in 5-7. But I think for a few years it would work.

I also think it might be a bit prideful for the pastor to think he should be "fresh" but the music can be the same every year. Seems like he thinks people are coming to hear him, not to worship.

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