Modern life is an increasingly isolated affair. In a local Church, however, ordinary people from all sorts of backgrounds are joined together into a real, spiritual, family. Church isn’t a religious club for like-minded people. It is a family which stays united because it shares the same spiritual life.
One of the serious fracture lines in our society is between generations. However the Crescent fellowship involves all three generations – old, middle-aged, and young. Because we are situated in the University area – the most cosmopolitan part of Belfast - the fellowship has always welcomed people of different nationalities.
How does such a diverse group of people stay together? We are united by a shared appreciation of Christ, and a willingness to obey the fundamental truths of the Christian faith. But it is not unknown for Christians to argue with each other over cultural preferences.
The Bible does not give us long lists of regulations which aim to mould everyone in to the same shape. Instead, it sets out timeless principles which cross all cultural boundaries. For example, Scripture instructs us to “consider one another”, and to “look out for the interests of others”.
These principles flow through into the practical aspects of Church life, from music to dress style.
