Answer by Don Wismer, Pastor @ Connexion Church, Fort Wayne:
Hi B.A. How you live your life and how you treat people are very important; good to hear that you make that part of your way of living.

Is going to church necessary? No. Does it make you a bad person to not go? No. But you are missing out on so much if you don't connect with the body of Christ in some fashion. Not only can the people there provide you withwisdom and guidance from their life experiences but you have so much that you can contribute as well. Your voice is valuable.

There are over 50 "one another" statements in the New Testament Scripture. We are told to love one another, bear one anothers burdens, forgive one another, etc. Pretty hard to do that by yourself.

First centuryChristians would not know what you were talking about if you spoke to them of being a stand alone believer. Community was one of the most important things they held dear. We still do today. Read Acts Chapter 2:41-47 and 4:32-37 for some examples of how strongly real community was cherished.

As far as the formalities and social event appearances of some in the church I guess when you deal with people you get a bit of everything. There are other forms and expressions of the body of Christ out there. At The Connexion we are exploring what has been called the house church, organic church or simple church movement where things are very informal. A meal is shared by those gathered, Scripture is encountered and discussed, prayer for one another is shared and group service to the community is encouraged. Perhaps this sounds of interest to you. If so, please get in touch with me and we can explore it together more.

Whatever you do I encourage you to keep seeking out a group of people that you feel comfortable with. A groupwho you can serve with and who will be blessed because you are connected to them.   -Grace & Peace to you! - Don