Wife and I looking...

[greenjacket5]

well, sort of. I grew up Catholic. She grew up non-denominational. I still love my church but as one that didn't marry a Catholic, I dont generally go. The end result-we dont attend anywhere.
We are looking for a church that is more contemporary (fits her better) yet it is important to me we congrete with people where the theme of the church is are you saved or not, for instance. I dont believe that is Christ's predominant message yet in so many churches it seems to be all that really matters anymore. Got Jesus? ITS HELL without him. I would like a parking lot where I can avoid those bumperstickers at all costs. We are a young couple in a large suburban area.

Any suggestions on any denominatons or groups that may suit from any personal expierences?
Thanks in advance

[progressivegal]

You sound just like my husband and me, only in reverse (I grew up Catholic), and we feel the same way as you. "emergent" is such a huge and ambiguous label, but maybe you might want to look into finding a church that considers itself "emergent" maybe ask around?You might want to check out an Episcopalian, or Lutheran or PResbyterian Church, that has a more "contemporary" style of worship (not always easy to find.) Or maybe a more contemporary worship style Methodist or non-denominational church. Really alot depends on the area, and the particular church, even in denominations the atmosphere can vary alot. The mainline denominations tend to focus less on the "are you saved?" thing though. I know the vineyard churches around here are quite contemporary and are very interested in the emergent church movement, but I can speak for vineyard churches everywhere. Maybe ask some college students where they go to church and check it out? If you don't mind me asking, where are you located?

[LavenderLeaves]

it would be very helpful if we knew what location you were looking for a church in. :)

[zhilan]

Also, there are plenty of Catholic churches that have a more "contemporary" theme.

[ctay]

Check out a Lutheran church. They have a liturgy type of service and a lot of them offer a contempory service too.

[greenjacket5]

thanks you all for the comments. I live in the Inland Empire, which is the Ontario area. It's like half way between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, if you will. The comment on some Catholic churches are more contemporary-you're right and I should look into that. Lutheran as well. Based on where I am from, anyone familiar? It would be like Rancho Cucamonga-Upland-Chino-Corona type area.

Thanks!

[plmarquette]

Churches are all about salvation , Jesus , and helping our fellow men ... some are predominantly evangelical , some missionary , some as out reaches , some are works oriented ... a catch-22 of sorts .

what are you seeking ?... every church should have some sort of out reach to the community : want to help out in a bread line , visit the elderly or sick , speak to prisoners , handicapped ... be a big brother or sister to a kid without a dad ?

there are some charismatic catholic churches that have elements of the Vineyard , Word of Faith , and Pentecostal churches ( prayer , fellowship , charisms )

It all seems to boil down to credibility , sincereity , and comfort ... are these people for real ? are they doing what they are promoting ? can I do this on a regular basis ...

we were raised roman catholic , and for the last 11 years have attended a Word of Faith church ... we went with another couple we knew , so we could ask questions after the service ... we wanted to understand the Bible , as an Evangelical Protestant , to test and see if there was anything to what we were hearing ...

check out a few churches , ask questions , God will let you know when you are where you should be ... will feel like home...