2020 has been a year of disappointments, struggles, hard decisions, and such unknowns. It’s also been a year of realizations about what is truly important, what brings us joy, what family and friends are all about, and most importantly, how much we need God and how much he really does provide.
In a time of struggle - questioning what I needed - a song came on the radio.
“Church” by Cochren & Co.
The chorus says:
Take me back
To the place that feels like home
To the people I can depend on
To the faith that's in my bones
Take me back
To a preacher and a verse
Where they've seen me at my worst
To the love I had at first
Oh, I want to go to church
This song made me realize what I was missing. Church. I think we can all agree there’s something special about church. More than simply hearing a message and feeling the music, it’s the fellowship, the community of prayer, the love.
I took a pause and realized exactly all that Willowdale Chapel has done since the pandemic started in our area. Church services have been made available online every Sunday, which allows every person to tune in, including those who are sick and compromised, as well as those who do not normally attend. Bible studies were and are still taking place for all ages, in person and virtually. Leaders were reaching out to individuals and families for prayer and assistance. The community is helping those in need. Church has been transformed to be accessible to all.
When outdoor services began taking place, I was hesitant to go because that meant bringing three small children. After several weeks, I knew it was time to go back, “to the place that feels like home, to the people I can depend on, to the faith that’s in my bones.”
What a difference being at church made for me. I was able to be more open with how I was feeling and ask for needed prayers. And just like so many other people in the world right now, I realized that my own mental illness was inflamed. During this struggle, my church, my people, and the faith in my bones are exactly what I need. While we know we need God and fellowship, our human form tends to be forgetful. Let us remember that God has a plan and a purpose. God provides. See the positives around us: Enjoy our church. Enjoy the changing leaves, the crisp fall air, a few apple pies, and thank God!
Check out Willowdale Chapel’s website to see how they are providing safe ways to fellowship, learn, love, and grow: Willowdale Chapel
To list a few options:
Sunday services are online and in person (just register to help with allowed numbers, as well as contact tracing).
Small group studies for women, men, young adults and mixed groups - virtual and in person
Some elementary, middle and high school small groups - in person, as well as studies for families at home
MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) - in person and virtual
Special needs ministry - virtual
Are you struggling with mental illness and in need of help? Contact the Peacemaker Center for a trusted counselor.
Full Song Lyrics to “Church”:
There was a time that I swore I would never go back
I was blind to the truth, didn't know what I had
I was running, I was searching
But every place I turned for healing
Left me more broken than the last
Take me back
To the place that feels like home
To the people I can depend on
To the faith that's in my bones
Take me back
To a preacher and a verse
Where they've seen me at my worst
To the love I had at first
Oh, I want to go to church
Tried to walk on my own but I wound up lost
Now I'm making my way to the foot of the cross
It's not a trophy for the winners
It's a shelter for the sinners
And it's right where I belong
Take me back
To the place that feels like home
To the people I can depend on
To the faith that's in my bones
Take me back
To a preacher and a verse
Where they've seen me at my worst
To the love I had at first
Oh, I want to go to church
I want to go to church
Oh, more than an obligation
It's our foundation
The family of God
I know it's hard
But we need each other
We're sisters and brothers
Oh, take me back
To the place that feels like home
To the people I can depend on
To the faith that's in my bones
Take me back
To a preacher and a verse
Where they've seen me at my worst
To the love I had at first
Oh, I want to go to church
Yeah, I want to go to church
Oh, I want to go, want to go, I want to go
Oh, I want to go to church
Oh, I want to go to church
ABOUT OUR BLOGGER
A former teacher, coach and personal trainer, Kristin Ryan now loves being a stay-at-home mom. As someone who has more recently found Christianity, she enjoys learning and growing in her faith and is excited to share her experience with others. Kristin and her husband, Casey, have two small children, one big dog and a pandemic baby that was born in April.
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