Twenty reasons to go to church 

So it’s that event where you need to find something to say to a group connected to the church, but rarely, if ever, join in Sunday worship, writes Andy Goodliff

Being honest it’s the kind of five minutes talk I dread, which I know others thrive on. Looking for something to say, I came across John Pritchard’s Going to Church: A User’s Guide, where he gives some reasons to go to church.

Inspired by this, and borrowing a few, I set about finding 20 reasons to go church. This is my list:
 

1. Because it's good to ask the big questions.
2. Because it helps put life in perspective.
3. Because most of the people are friendly.
4. Because you know you need help.
5. Because it’s not the same without you.
6. Because it’s probably changed since you last went.
7. Because it tells a story that is endlessly fascinating.
8. Because it doesn’t underestimate evil and doesn’t overestimate goodness.
9. Because most weeks you will laugh.
10. Because as extreme sports go, church-going can be pretty extreme.
11. Because it’s a place of rest, celebration, healing, forgiveness, new beginnings.
12. Because it’s a group of people willing to say each other ‘I’ll be there for you.’
13. Because there’s more to life than a house, a job, a shopping trip, the next holiday.
14. Because Sunday morning TV is rubbish.
15. Because its one of the few places people of all ages and backgrounds come together.
16. Because it’s a community looking for ways to live well and die well.
17. Because there’s always biscuits afterwards and sometime cake!
18. Because it gives you something to talk about over Sunday lunch.
19. Because it cares about other people and seeks to make a difference for good.
20. Because God is there. 

The Revd Andy Goodliff is minister of Belle Vue Baptist Church, Southend-on-Sea

What reason would you give someone for going to church? Please share in the comment section below