Ecclesia Church

Elite '08

119

609

Cory O.

Houston, TX

So, you're a hip Christian (no, it is not always an oxymoron)?!  This is the place to be (and to be seen).  You'll actually stand out if you DON'T have piercings and tattoos.  The emo/teenage angst look is in.  It is the alternative scene in Houston for Christians.  And it stands out because of it.

Other factors that make it so popular?  The two main pastors are incredibly charismatic--charismatic in personality, not Charismatic as in speaking in tongues.  The music is fantastic and with their connections, they can get some pretty big names in there.  The church is actually a nice laid back blend of denominations, so you actually see some Catholics mixed into the crowd--and if you've ever lived in the South you know that doesn't happen very often.  Communion is every week, but laid back so there's not awkwardness if you don't partake.  Plus, with all the cool art on the walls and the coffee shop in the next room, what more could you ask for?

Well, here are some reasons that you may want to stay away.  The average age (or at least the age that people dress) is about 20.  With the punked out hair and "I'm just too cool" attitude, it can be a little strange if you've already moved on out of that.  Hell, it was not long ago I was all pierced up, but I have a grown up job now, and that just isn't an option anymore.  The other problem with the age of the church is that if you're not young and single, it is a little harder to meet new people.  I suppose married people are a little less interesting but we're still nice. . . .

The church is incredibly casual.  Maybe it is my old woman side coming out, but I did find it odd to see girls in tube tops at church.  Or boys who didn't take off their hats during prayer.  Or that sometimes they use the New Living Translation for the sermons.  Doesn't seem to bother anyone else, so I must assume that I find it odd because I'm an old fart.

All in all, it is a great place to go if you're young.  And it is a great place to go if you're curious about Christianity, but don't want people staring at you because they'll "know" you're not a Christian.  This church is living proof that you don't have to be stodgy to be a Christian.

Bookmark   Send to a Friend Link to This Review