Epworth United Methodist Church

I attended this church on one occasion, and my first (and lasting) impression was that the members had a long history with each other but a lack of interest in welcoming newcomers. The church building has somewhat of a 70's architectural feel, with inclusive half-circle shaped pews, and an equally 70's liberal protestant theology. The sermon and announcements were solely focused on outreach to the poor, but more in small symbolic ways than actual service and involvement. The sermon was poignant, and it emphasized the need for awareness about child slavery, but it did not motivate me (or the other congregants) to action of any kind. Also, a large part of the worship service was taken up with a recognition ceremony, where almost half of the congregation was given a certificate for being "good Christians." It was not a recognition of leadership or service, but merely of the depth of your "christianness." This was very unwelcoming to an outsider, and seemed very ingenuous. The strength of this church was its openness and emphasis on serving the poor, but I heard very little of (or about) the Gospel when I visited.