Fishing Rodeo!

Why should I attend an event sponsored by our Church?

I have had folks argue that they don't need to attend events sponsored by our church. Oh, how I disagree.
In the first place, I hear complaints that members don't know each other very well. Then attend some events outside of regular scheduled services and get to know them. Secondly, families are scrambling to find things to do "together." Our family events are designed with that in mind. It is not a "segregation" of age groups, where parents are kept from their children, but rather we encourage them to come and play together.
Thirdly, what group of people are you most comfortable with? Is it the lost world, or the saints of God? Who do you gain more pleasure spending time with? Be careful with your answer! You may identify your family very quickly this way! If your family is the "family of God", you ought to enjoy being with them. If however, your father is not God the Father, then it is understandable that you would be uncomfortable among believers.
Fourthly, one of our duties as believers is to encourage others to righteousness. You can't do that very well long distance. You must be up close and personal to do that. Also, it is hard for someone to want to receive your godly counsel if there is not some proof that you love them and care for them.
Fifthly, your Pastor has asked you to attend. It is not just an announcement that "Hey we are having a fishing rodeo and hope you will come." Rather, it is, "Hey, we are having a fishing rodeo, and I want you to come and spend time with the family, visit with me and my wife and daughter. Get to know your Associate Pastor a little better and his lovely wife. Discover your Deacons and their families. Come out and share your life with us."
Is everyone in our group perfect? Well, look in the mirror. Your part of that group. That answers your question. With that in mind, how do we minister to one another? Imperfect people, who have a perfect God, ministering in an imperfect way, looking to the day we are made perfect in Christ Jesus.
Pastor