While we are talking about this…
To get my posts out here on the Intrawebs, I click a blue Publish button. But in real life, in a crowded fellowship hall, getting everyone’s attention can be hard and awkward. I encountered this custom by a UMC preacher over 25 years ago, and it’s become a technique I love sharing.
The leader calls for order by lifting the words “The Lord be with you.” Conversations pause as the crowd turns (automatically) responding “And also with you,” and all await the announcements, instructions, blessings, whatevers.
Now some might argue this reinforces a call-and-response attitude and negates the holiness that I advocate during the Passing of the Peace. Possible. So the leader must be sure to watch the crowd during their response. More possibly, I like to think this method brings holiness to our attention and attention to our holiness.
The Lord be with you…
We are not Christians alone.
My mission is to share, inspire, and encourage.
on the chancel steps 