I previously wrote that there are, amongst others, three signs of a healthy church - weirdos, smokers and confused new people.
But, I now think there's another person who will show the health of a local church.
Those with mental issues...
Those who are downright crazy...
Every church I've been a part of has a unstable person show up regularly, be it at a church service or during the week.
No matter if they're struggling with illness, addiction or homelessness, churches, as they should, attract those who need help.
I think these kind of people reveal the heart of a church.
Are they really welcoming?
Are they actually inclusive?
Can they extend hospitality to someone who does things which makes them uncomfortable?
When someone comes into a church, ranting or obviously "under the weather," then it lifts the lid on the true nature of the community.
And, if it truely is a place where all are welcome, then a healthy church should attract, or at least retain, the unstable and down-on-their-luck.
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