Baptist Church

Yesterday, I attended a Baptist service with my girlfriend and her family. It was the first time that I had ever been to a non-catholic service, but I found it very interesting. I realized that Catholics have a much different approach and attitude towards mass. When I went to Second Baptists I was surprised of the number of people that attended the service, not to mention it was only one of their many campuses. Also, I found it intriguing that they prayed a lot, but they do not make the sign of the cross as we do when we start and finish a prayer. Also, I was surprised with the lack of sacraments that they celebrated. I was shocked to find out that their service was really only composed of a homily, and singing. However, they managed to have a longer service then our masses last for. I also got to witness a Baptist Baptism, and they are significantly different. They do not have to attend any classes, they do not have anybody sponsoring them, they just show up and are baptized. Also, during a Baptist Baptism, water is not poured on the person, they are physically put into a pool and dipped completely under water.

I had heard of the pastor Ed Young before, and his questionable comments in his homilies. However, I did not know what they would actually be like in person. Honestly, I could tell that he truly loves God, and believes that he is doing the best thing he can to make others love God as much. Although, he does indeed make a lot of questionable statements, and many times goes against the teachings of the Catholic Church. Also, everything that he says in his speeches come directly from the Bible, so they have inspired backing. However, just as with any other book, everyone can have their own interpretation of the story. In addition, he presses his view points upon the rest of the congregation, and in my opinion, they are just plain wrong. Overall, it was an eye-opening experience, and I have no problem with the Baptist religion, as I thought their service was actually more fun, and as sacred. However, I really was not comfortable with the pastor, or the lack of the Eucharist. 

-Timmy Mashinski