Finding Church

Like many, I was disillusioned by church. I felt spiritually empty. I could not conform, so I left. A 10-year search finally led me to Plainfield Independent Church.

My heart ached for more than a place to attend and institutional rules to follow. Mostly what I knew was leader-driven hierarchy bent on managing others, guilt, doctrine, rituals, conformity, superficial relationships, hypocrisy, and battles over projects and music, while overlooking sin and suffering of fellow members. Church had become meaningless, and I desperately needed a better understanding than the one I had been given. I was told that it was a frailty of my heart rather than the failures of the institution. I was told attendance was an obligation, and if I left, I was in danger. Now I know I did not leave church, I left an organization. I never stopped wanting to know God.

Since arriving at Plainfield, I am learning church is more than a steepled edifice with people sitting on a pew. True church is comprised of those who are striving to live biblical principles, who share a passion for Christ, and encourage each other on the journey, faithfully doing the tasks God has given them, and loving one another as Christ taught.

I found a unity of heart and spiritual purpose, true love, resilience, and honesty. Sin is boldly addressed. God is first above self-interest, relationships above conformity, and freedom above obligation. The structure is used to serve mankind, as Mrs. Eddy taught. True church has been awakened in me. Here is a life-changing proving ground, a place in God’s family. Here flows the living water that is restoring the broken, encouraging the weak, a community of the redeemed. It has begun in me a healing of the heart.