An invite to Joe and Karl

Reading recent articles by Joe Bennett and Karl du Fresne, one would get the impression they are speaking for the majority when writing their pieces about the church.

We understand that in the times in which we are living there is the undermining of all that is traditional and valued in our society.

References regarding church leaders getting on political bandwagons seem to raise the ire of your columnists.

Some would have the church ‘‘ shut up ‘‘ about issues that affect our society. None of their business some would say.

Clearly the mission of the church is to bring good news to the lost and brokenhearted.

Brokenheartedness is at the core of the social ills facing this nation.

However, scripture clearly states that ‘‘true and undefiled religion is to visit the orphans and widows and relieve them in their time of distress’’.

As believers, we believe this is our obligation and if that means bringing these needs before our politicians thereby suffering scorn in editorials, so be it.

We also read from time to time about ‘‘dwindling’’ numbers attending church these days.

Possibly some traditional groups are experiencing this, however, if we take into account all church groups, there are many that are drawing large numbers to a variety of activities.

Many churches are meeting in buildings that have little appearance of being a place of worship.

I would invite Joe and Karl to come to our church gathering on a Sunday – if they can get a seat – you see we are having to build a new larger auditorium to fit all the people in who are choosing to get out of bed on a Sunday morning to be with other believers to worship God.

Yes, you may even get given a chocolate, though only if it’s your birthday or some other cause for celebration.

David Elder

Pastor Otatara Community Church We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. Thessalonians 1:3 1.