My church is having a women's event in Sept. I had said something about it to a friend yesterday and she expressed an interest in going with me.
One of the event organizers contacted me today and I mentioned about my friend and was told: "This is for church members ONLY". I was stunned to say the least. Since we have lived here, I have been invited to any number of events, bbq's, plays, pageants, meetings, dinners, etc. at various churches by people I know and don't know.
I have NEVER heard of a church turning away anyone that expressed an interest. (never know when you will find a new member). And this is a more or less social event, so its not like its something that only members can do like voting on church policy, deacons, etc. And previous other events have been open to anyone regardless of membership.
I didn't say anything as I am yet too new and didn't want to rock the boat, but I'm really questioning why I want to keep going to this church as I was talked to like a stupid 3 year old child about bringing in a "non-church member".
So far we've had nothing but good experiences at this church, but this just totally blows me away. I think it is a good opportunity for others to meet some of the women in our church and find out more of what our church is like. I am still just stunned and now have to tell my friend that she can't come?
What amazes me is that like most small churches, we have a lack of volunteers and funds for all sorts of things, so you'd think it would be nice to attract new members any way you can to boost both the funds and volunteers and church membership.
I know that more than likely its just this woman and a few of her friends as that little group has been less than friendly to me since we started going and there are plenty of others that are great to my family and this woman just represents a very small group. But still. I would wonder what our membership committee and minister would have to say about this. I'm not going to mention it as the church is small enough that it would get back to me being the one that said something. But still. I am still sitting here with my mouth hanging open at this.
And I'm sure that any number of other churches in the area would jump at the chance to welcome someone new.
Or am I taking it wrong?