As most of you probably know, I grew up in church—old church—traditional Missionary Baptist Church. And I kind of miss the experience. Those sisters made sure children were trained and prepared to serve the Lord. They taught based on the Roberts Rules of Order and made sure everyone understood order, structure, and importance of participation.

Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Baptist Youth Training Union, and Youth Choir Rehearsal were a must—back in the day, we didn’t have a choice.

The fifth Sunday was always Youth Day and we had to be prepared to pray, read scripture, sing, do the welcome address, pick up the collection, and someone always read a poem. The sermon was geared for young minds.

The training instilled within me a sense of dedication to know God and obligation to serve God. I miss Old Church.

Many of my Welcome Addresses began with Psalm 122:1, “I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of the Lord.”

I might not have always been glad to go to church then, but I’m glad now. I’m glad I received the training. I’m glad I was introduced to Jesus Christ. I’m glad I was exposed to people who knew God, believed God, and followed God. I’m glad they weren't perfect. I’m glad I have those memories.

March Gladness

Though today’s church is a bit different, I’m still glad to go into the House of the Lord. When I’m not in attendance, something is missing from my week.

Corporate worship is a true blessing. The fellowship of Believers, Sunday School lessons, Children’s Church, special programs, songs from the choir, and the Pastor’s Spoken Word from the Lord adds value to my daily existence.

New church may have changed a bit, but God is still the same and Jesus still saves.

I still glad when they say to me, “Let us go into the House of the Lord.”