Church
I visited the church today evening with my friend. We get a 45 minute gap between two classes in the evening. And I usually walk the distance since they aren't very far apart, think about a mile or so. There is a church that is there midway. Today, I felt kinda attracted towards it, there was this strange feeling in me that dragged me there. I'd never been to a church before today. And I said, "Hey! Let's go to the church today. We've passed by it many times but never visited. And we have a lot of time before the next class." And he agreed.
So we went in there, through the main gate, which was to the right side of the road. The entrance to the church was most majestic. It had wooden carvings over the door which depicted the crucification of Jesus, I guess. Entering the church, there were huge benches where we could sit. Apart from my friend and me, I don't think anyone else was there. It was just left open, kinda felt like the place was just waiting for us. And then there was this huge effigy of Lord Jesus over the crucifix.
Not knowing really what to do in a church, we just sat down in the front row of the benches. It was really nice, calm and serene and peaceful. And it felt wonderful. The silence felt wonderful. I closed my eyes, with my hands on my lap, I prayed. Opened my eyes, and it felt good.
I didn't have any money on me today, so couldn't contribute to the "DONATIONS" box. I felt really ashamed, so I prayed again for forgiveness for not being able to contribute. I hope God wouldn't mind it.
And then, I took one last look at Jesus and left the place. I felt really fresh and calm. Dunno how many times I've mentioned that, but I really did. That's the feeling I get whenever I visit a holy place.
I think I definitely wanna visit that place again, and not to forget to put in some money in the box.
And I'd be glad if someone could please help me with what I'm supposed to do at a church, I mean like, some ritual or something, if there might be one.
Sid
So we went in there, through the main gate, which was to the right side of the road. The entrance to the church was most majestic. It had wooden carvings over the door which depicted the crucification of Jesus, I guess. Entering the church, there were huge benches where we could sit. Apart from my friend and me, I don't think anyone else was there. It was just left open, kinda felt like the place was just waiting for us. And then there was this huge effigy of Lord Jesus over the crucifix.
Not knowing really what to do in a church, we just sat down in the front row of the benches. It was really nice, calm and serene and peaceful. And it felt wonderful. The silence felt wonderful. I closed my eyes, with my hands on my lap, I prayed. Opened my eyes, and it felt good.
I didn't have any money on me today, so couldn't contribute to the "DONATIONS" box. I felt really ashamed, so I prayed again for forgiveness for not being able to contribute. I hope God wouldn't mind it.
And then, I took one last look at Jesus and left the place. I felt really fresh and calm. Dunno how many times I've mentioned that, but I really did. That's the feeling I get whenever I visit a holy place.
I think I definitely wanna visit that place again, and not to forget to put in some money in the box.
And I'd be glad if someone could please help me with what I'm supposed to do at a church, I mean like, some ritual or something, if there might be one.
Sid
8 Comments:
I think you did everything exactly right. Just sitting there and letting the feeling fill you up was probably very comforting. You saying a prayer before you left was good too. There is no ritual you have to follow.
By honeybee4, Jul 02 08 8:49 PM
Thank you honeybee.
I asked about rituals because we, as Hindus, have certain rituals when we visit the Temple.
By linkinparksid, Jul 03 08 1:51 AM
Well if it was a Catholic Church, we usually dip our fingers in the Holy water font on entering the Church and bless ourselves with our right hand. Forehead first,then near our heart, then our left shoulder and then our right shoulder saying " In the name of the Father ,Son , Holy Spirit ,Amen. Then we would do exactly as you have done (If mass was not in progress) Basically it is nice to sit and reflect for a while in the sanctuary of the Church from the humdrum of outside life. As for a donation, it is not necessary but if you have a few coins to spare it is always nice to give a few! Maybe you could light a candle on your next visit? I hope this helps you a little!
By Mettlee, Jul 03 08 5:08 PM
Actually, I am very certain God and Jesus are not concerned about you having no offering. After all, it was your first visit.
The only thing required is taking the first step into the church.
Please do go back. I have found Church is the one place where are all welcome.
By talentedone, Jul 05 08 12:01 AM
I enjoyed reading your blog entry. Church can be a really peaceful place. Can I suggest two things to you? The first is, if you felt drawn to the church perhaps Jesus himself was drawing you there. And the second, you might try to read the New Testament to see what he has to say to you.
By jogreen, Jul 05 08 9:45 AM
Sid, it's wonderful to find a place of calm, wherever that is. I also think that you're perfectly capable of thinking and deciding for yourself what you want to read and learn - but perhaps that's just me. Have you been back since?
By lesley153, Jul 07 08 5:50 AM
Yes, I did go back. Thanks. :)
By linkinparksid, Jul 11 08 9:13 AM
Good - I hope you will continue to enjoy the calm.
By lesley153, Jul 11 08 7:57 PM