More of the Memphis Experience

While I was in Memphis this past weekend, it was a real treat to experience some of the community, "co-ops", and people at First Congo.

I had a friend who had spent a few nights at the hostel there...the Pilgrim House...and recommended it highly to me. And whenever I travel, I like to find a way to connect with some local culture, food, people, and worship experiences.


The hostel was great. For just $15/night plus a little 10-minute chore...the accommodations were quite comfortable. They had wi-fi, a nice kitchen & dining area, a reading room, and helpful information about what to do while in Memphis.

One of the first people I met was this guy...


...John Harkless.


John has an incredible story and has now lived at and worked for the church for the past couple of years.


First Congo is affiliated with the United Church of Christ and has completely opened their arms to the community...especially those in the G&L community, AIDS/HIV-infected individuals, impoverished, and basically anyone looking for a place to explore faith and experience grace.

Now I know many of you squirm at the thought of being that OPEN to various lifestyles, beliefs, and these diverse expressions of Christian community...but consider for just one moment that there is One God and Judge to whom people are going to eventually answer...and you're not Him! (or Her!) ;-)

The church was full of unique artistic elements which added to the worship experience and gave you a sense of the community's personality.

In the middle of the open half of the sanctuary...centered in the beautiful wood floor was this hand-made baptismal font/bowl...very impressive.



Among the various co-ops and organizations which were home to First Congo was this very creative bicycle co-op...Revolutions. In the lower level of the educational wing, they had a bike shop established which would train interested volunteers from the community for basic repair and maintenance. Then the co-op would refurbish bikes to give away...especially to elementary-age children at a nearby school. This just seemed like such a cool community effort and service which had been having tremendous impact in the neighborhood as well as commanding some national attention.

Just a few words about the worship experience. It was what I would call an emerging sort of liturgical gathering. With about 300-400 people, we sang...read scripture...engaged in a fun children's sermon...listened to a great choral rendition of "O Happy Day" (one of my favorite gospel hymns)...and received a very well-prepared and articulate teaching encouraging us to live an Easter life in a Good Friday world. I walked away from this gathering and overall church experience a little more in love with our extravagantly loving and creative God.