<blockquote><font size=1>In reply to:</font><hr>[color:"blue"]My own perspective was more of the focus of what the church does even for it's own poor. Someone once told me about the church they belonged to, wanted to change the color of the carpet in the church building instead giving food or money to the local poor. We sure seem to look after our own comfort and beyond before we look to others who have a lot less than we! I am disappointed that this un- Christlike attitude exists in our churches overwhelmingly today! We need bigger buildings, softer seats, more carpets, etc., always looking to ourselves!</font><hr></blockquote><p><br><br>Speaking of!<br><br>The interior of one local church building here was burnt out a couple years ago; many things were lost, including an historic organ. Last year, they worked to restore the interior, and in the process, purchased a new $80,000 organ! I was so angry, although the whole event did not directly effect me; the money could have gone toward so many better things---the debts of several families in the vicinity could easily have been forgiven, used cars might have been purchased for some people who cannot afford anything. While the church I have been attending has faults (Pentecostal, Arminian), in the area of caring for the poor and elderly, there is much to commend. The building itself remains largely a temporary structure, while money in the thousands of dollars is devoted every year to aiding local families in financial need, or providing food and other goods, in addition to supporting several foreign missionary and local evangelization efforts. And the members of the church themselves are loving and devoted to each other's welfare. (This has been what has kept me from leaving this church so far, for those of you who recall my situation.)<br><br>So, yeah. I understand your dismay, Ruth.

Kyle

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified.