[MissBrattified]

Originally Posted by 192281

So my wife and I have decided to look into possibly attending a different church. We have always gone to an oneness UPC church and now we have decided to check things out at a different church. The church we have visited and are interested in preaches acts 2:38 and has had wonderful services every time we have visited. The church preaches the same message our church does but doesn’t seem to focus on the traditions our church focuses on. They seem to really love one another and are very welcoming when we visit.
MY pastor is aware of this decision and gave us his blessing to search for what it is we think we need. I have always been active in my church and have held positions and have always respected the rules because I was in leadership. I have decided I can’t do it anymore and I needed be true to who I am and my wife feels the same so this is the reason for our search.
Members of our current church heard we visited this other church and they are now praying for our salvation and have labeled us as backslidden and their faith in us has diminished..This was in an email I received from one of them.
How can this be?? I can’t believe people have this mentality.
Im writing this hear because I don’t in anyway want to offend those that go to my church or disrespect my Pastor but Im so confused...why on earth would people think this? DO we (UPC) tradition holders really think we are the only heaven bound people out there? Like I said we were just visiting and looking around with the POSSIBILITY of leaving but now why would we stay?
Its hurts to think people who have been friends with for so many years could turn their back on us so fast. I in no way would condemn them for holding certain traditions and staying where they are so what gives them the right to do it to me?
Anyway guess I just had to get it off my chest so I didn’t regret calling or emailing someone!...

If someone is taking the time to pray for your salvation, it must be because they have strong feelings about the situation. Technically speaking, if they feel you are lost for some reason, or at least going in that direction, I would be disappointed if they didn't pray about it.

I wouldn't worry about it--just realize that it isn't going to hurt you to have someone praying for you, whatever the reason.

The best thing you can do is remain friendly and open. Shutting people out, or showing your frustration will confirm their worst fears. If these are people you've known for years, then I would assume their concern is heartfelt, and try to appreciate it on principle.