Day 3, Sunday: Church at Southside

This morning we attended the church service at Southside Presbyterian Church. It was one of the most moving worship experiences I've ever had, so with the caveat that there's no way I can explain it adequately (which, really, is true of every experience on this trip), I'll try.

The worship space is in the round. Mission-style pews are set up in a circle, with the communion table and pulpit in the middle. The worship space is in the style of a traditional Kiva, which is a Puebloan sacred space. One characteristic of this is that it is sunken into the earth... grounded. Connected. Sacred.

The room was full of both people and spirit. The energy with which people came to worship was palpable, and they were genuinely glad to be together.

The service began with the sounding of the singing bowl, a large metal bowl that is struck to call attention. We, once again, sang "Sanctuary" - so appropriate for this community. As the service progressed, we were brought into a centered spirit with hymns, a corporate confession and absolution, the passing of the peace, and a Native American Prayer of Blessing.

One thing that struck me through the service was the diversity of worship that was represented - Latino, Native American, and African American influences were all prevalent. But none seemed inauthentic to the body; in fact, they were a beautiful representation of it.

The most moving part of the service for me was the closing song:

God be with you, God be with you, God be with you until we meet again.
If we nevermore shall meet you, if we nevermore shall greet you,
God be with you until we meet again.
Keep on working for the master, she'll be with us here and after,
God be with you until we meet again

.

This song was sung in joyful celebration. The body of people swayed together and sang with energy, drawing witness to the reality of the words. Regardless of where people go when they leave that place, they leave changed. I have never felt so much a part of the global church as I did this morning. It was evident that they experienced and lived life together, and that community is embodied - regardless of the individuals who are physically present. I walked out of that place forever changed, and I'm sure anyone who enters feels the same.