This year I have led worship at 19 different churches in 3 denominations. In 3 different states. I have additional trips scheduled at 4 additional churches later this year. This does not count funerals, nursing homes or prayer services.

Immanuel is one of the 19. Far and away the place I worship most often. In many ways I consider you to be my church home.

I bring up the number of churches to talk about worship style.

One of the topics I joke about when I arrive at a church is “how do you do communion?” I am here to tell you that there is no “normal way”.

Communion is only one of the things that can trip me up. Microphones are another. Along with how much the congregation stands for parts of the worship. I have found myself standing while they sat. And the other way around.

Some churches do all four weekly readings, others just 1. Some follow the lectionary others do a sermon series.

I often get the readings ahead of time. But the rest can be a surprise. Thankfully, most congregations have grace for my missteps. Laughter is contagious.

I have learned that despite the differences they are all still worshipping. Communion is served. Prayers are said. Songs are sung. The word of God is heard.

I bring this up to encourage you to be willing to try new things in worship. Things change. At one time people fought to be allowed to use the organ in worship. Now people are moving away from organs.

Guess what? It is still worshipping God.

God loves you. So, do I.