Dr. Eberhard Speaks Out -
"Where is the Church?"

The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard presents an article called "Dr. Eberhard Speaks Out." He challenges us with his thoughts and experience as a leading churchman in America. While we may agree, or not agree, he shares with us what he has learned that works in the local parish. Over his 40 years of experience in the ministry and over 24 years in the political arena, he has always tended to be ahead of the current curve of church practices and is always "pushing the envelope" to get us to expand our thinking.

"Where is the Church?" as an influence in our society today ? Have we become so secularized that the church has just becomes an afterthought? In development plans of the cities and suburbs, is any thought given to include the church in these plans? Create nice new downtowns or open green sub-divisions, establish new strip malls, more restaurants, larger movie houses, but don't even consider a church site to fill the spiritual void of present or new residents.

When it comes to reporting on upcoming events in the media - newspaper, TV, radio, or internet- church activities are seldom included. The church is not just an after thought, it isn't even in their thought process. Maybe we think it is politically correct not to include the church activities. Or maybe the media fear if they mention one church they will offend all others. Do the media refrain from mentioning a restaurant or a local concert because others might be offended because they were not mentioned? The Church is news, it has a message for society! But then, "Where is the Church"? Of course, you have to have more to say than just the upcoming bake sale. Have the churches pursued to get their message out. Too often, Council of Churches and various denominations are only interested in telling what is happening in India, not what is happening at 2nd and Main street.

The church stands by and shakes its head over the fact that "Merry Christmas" becomes "Holiday Greetings", or that the "Christ Child" is replaced with the "Snowman" or "Penguin". "Easter" is replaced with the "Spring Festival". Sunday Worship Time is given a lower priority in the psychic of our lives, pushed aside by festivals, runs for causes, sports activities, etc. "Where Is the Church?" Have we become so silent thinking the church has nothing to add to society. Have we cowered to the anti-church secular forces, or to indifference, thinking it is useless to speak out?

Let's get out of the "Club House" mentality that everything evolves only within our church buildings, and only involves our membership. Speak up Church - Go tell it on the mountain, Stand up Stand up for Jesus, I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Word is the power of God unto salvation. The church has the message for the tormented, stressed out people of our land. But how shall they believe if they are not told? It's up to you, the Church, to be heard loud and clear that you have been given the healing, forgiving, caring message for all. "Where Is The Church ?" I hope you let it be heard before it becomes to late.