"Choosing" a denomination

[Henry Peterson]

I've noted that there are several denominations of Christianity. In the UK specifically, Anglicanism and Catholicism seem to be equally prevalent, with several others rather well-represented. So with this much choice, how does one choose which denomination of Christianity to become a part of? Is it indeed a choice one consciously makes?

 

[drich0150]

I believe each denomination represents a set of gifts or mind set. For instance for those who tend to need to be more energetic or "passionate" verbally and/or physically in what they believe, we have a selection of charismatic churches that will help them best express the all encompassing love for God we should all share. For those who have tendencies towards a more academic worship we have denominations that focus study and research.

I would ask God to help you discover what gifts or abilities He has given you to worship with and then do some research of churches in your area to find out what would be the best fit. Don't be afraid to try one out, give it a few weeks and if it doesn't fit go to the next.

The only real qualification you need to keep in mind is that they are a Jesus Christ centered Church who Teaches from then bible. The rest you will be able to figure out with the help of the Holy Spirit.

 

[solarwave]

I would say research the denominations and then go to a few churches in your area for a few weeks and see how you feel.

 

[Mr Dave]

I agree with what the others have said.

Different churches differ on theology, church structure and worship style primarily.
If you're thinking of checking some out, do a go to a few different ones, probably your local CofE parish church, Methodist Church, RCC church and some others. Depends how you feel though. Like you say it's probably not a conscious thing, different people suit different churches (some the more traditional and liturgically focussed, others the more free and charismatic ones). The only church I've been to in Leeds was Hope City Leeds which didn't suit me, but might suit you - it would certainly be different to the standard CoE or Methodist church.

On your page or on a different thread I think you mentioned you were taken to church as a child for a short while, how you remember this (trad or contemporary) would probably be in your mind about what church is, so depending on you as a person, you might want to find something that is similar to this as it's familiar or go for something completely different to experience a different kind of church.

 

[HisHomeMaker]

In his book called "Mere Christianity", CS Lewis has some good ideas about this.

Its one thing to learn about Christianity and about different denominations and churches by reading or talking about them, but you really do have to experience them. Whatever community brings you closer to a relationship with God is probably a good fit. Don't be swayed by fancy buildings or music or even the people. The people there are to teach you and to support you in your journey. Good preaching is based on the Bible.

Bless you on your path.

 

[drich0150]

By your other arguments you have made I looks like you were trying to stir controversy rather than truly look for a church.

What does all of these answers tell you other than your stereotype of Christianity is antiquated and out dated?

 

[Henry Peterson]

Thank you all of you for your answers, you've set my mind at rest on this point. But I think I need to ask for an explanation of that last post.

By your other arguments you have made I looks like you were trying to stir controversy rather than truly look for a church.

What does all of these answers tell you other than your stereotype of Christianity is antiquated and out dated?

You're the second person to fling such a pointless, hurtful accusation my way. Are you trying to drive me away?

I'm not looking for a church right now. If you've followed my journey thus far, as you claim to have, you'd know that. I'm seeking knowledge. Hence, asking questions. I also do not have "a stereotype of Christianity" - I haven't knowingly even met any Christians in over twenty years!

I'll tell you what I told the other person. I was told that if I have any questions, I should ask them, and here was the place to do it. So, unsurprisingly, I'm asking questions. Please explain how, by simply seeking knowledge, I am in any way "stirring controversy"?

 

[Mr Dave]

.

 

[drich0150]

Thank you all of you for your answers, you've set my mind at rest on this point. But I think I need to ask for an explanation of that last post.



You're the second person to fling such a pointless, hurtful accusation my way. Are you trying to drive me away?

I'm not looking for a church right now. If you've followed my journey thus far, as you claim to have, you'd know that. I'm seeking knowledge. Hence, asking questions. I also do not have "a stereotype of Christianity" - I haven't knowingly even met any Christians in over twenty years!

I'll tell you what I told the other person. I was told that if I have any questions, I should ask them, and here was the place to do it. So, unsurprisingly, I'm asking questions. Please explain how, by simply seeking knowledge, I am in any way "stirring controversy"?

My mistake you currently share an avatar with someone who is asking questions to simply stir controversy in another sub forum. I guess I am not the only one to make this mistake. again if this is not you then I do apologize.

 

[Henry Peterson]

My mistake you currently share an avatar with someone who is asking questions to simply stir controversy in another sub forum. I guess I am not the only one to make this mistake. again if this is not you then I do apologize.

Your guarded apology is accepted! Although my name is clearly visible at the top of each post, I've changed my avatar to clear it up. Although there's nothing to stop someone right-clicking and saving my new one and doing the same thing again... please do let me know if it happens again.

 

[HisHomeMaker]

Henry, you will find people here on Christian Forums to be at various stages of their walk with Jesus and some, like you, who aren't sure at all that they want the journey. I understand that it may be difficult for you to attend a Sunday church service because of your disability, but another way to learn would be to participate in an Alpha or Christianity 101 class offered at any church, Christian school or college. Often these classes are held during the week. You could also talk to an educated minister; perhaps an ecumenical campus minister at a college or university would be a good place to start because these people serve Christians, seekers, and non-Christians from a wide range of denominations and typically they have at least a master's degree in religion. I hope you find more answers and less conflict.

...HHM

 

[elman]

I've noted that there are several denominations of Christianity. In the UK specifically, Anglicanism and Catholicism seem to be equally prevalent, with several others rather well-represented. So with this much choice, how does one choose which denomination of Christianity to become a part of? Is it indeed a choice one consciously makes?

Of course you can chose which church to attend. None of them are perfect and if you found the perfect one, the minute you joined it would no longer be perfect.

 

[salida]

I've noted that there are several denominations of Christianity. In the UK specifically, Anglicanism and Catholicism seem to be equally prevalent, with several others rather well-represented. So with this much choice, how does one choose which denomination of Christianity to become a part of? Is it indeed a choice one consciously makes?

denomination test
http://www.selectsmart.com/FREE/select.php?client=christiandenom

 

[Henry Peterson]

Thanks for all the good information! Particularly:

another way to learn would be to participate in an Alpha or Christianity 101 class offered at any church, Christian school or college.

I didn't even know such things existed... sounds like a good place to start indeed. I'll have to have a look on the web and find out about those