For two months we are testing a different seating configuration for Sunday worship. Instead of sitting in rows like a traditional church service or lecture, we are sitting around tables like family and neighbors in conversation and community with one another. Three primary considerations led to this experiment.
- Symbolism – This layout is a better picture of fellowship and the reminder of breaking bread together. We are seated in fellowship with each other.
- Esthetics – This configuration looks nice. We have set up this way in the past for special events and Sunday worship is a special event.
- Practicality – Tables and chairs makes the space fill full. We want enough seating for regular attendees and guests without the room feeling empty on low attendance days.
This is a test, so please give it a chance, and give leadership your feedback. Also, pray for our partner congregations (Shekinah and Everlasting City) who have agreed to try this test even though they prefer a traditional seating arrangement.
- Is this permanent? No. This is a two month experiment and we will evaluate the results for all three congregations. Also, we intend to grow to a point where table seating will not provide enough seats.
- What about the children’s table? The children’s table is still in the worship space, just in a different location. We intend to keep our multigenerational worship intact.
- Can we eat in the worship space? Yes.
- Why did all three congregations have to agree to try this? Even though we own the building, we try our best to work in partnership. Also, the logistics of setting this up each week only for Heartwood Church would have been overwhelming.
If you are looking for fresh expression of “doing church” come check us out and be part of the experiment!
