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Molly Caldwell
COMM 251, Spring 2009
Dr. Jennifer F. Wood
COMM 251
Research Report
Introduction
This research report is a collection of data from a questionnaire, answered by
myself, as well as my two guests, following a visit to Celebrate Life Christian Church
(CLCC.) Through this report, I hope to convey both my feelings and my guests’
feelings on our visit, as well as some information on other local churches, and the
demographic that CLCC would like to concentrate their growth on, which is young
adults between the ages of 18-30. First of all, I would like to take a moment to thank
Pastor Steve and Pastor Andrew and everyone else from Celebrate Life Christian
Church for the opportunity to provide the information I have gathered to you.
there are plenty of churches that I can attend that are much closer to my
home.
• Question 4: What makes you like a church? What turns you off about
a church? Please be specific.
My answer: I like churches that are open and affirming to ALL beliefs (or lack
thereof.) I also like churches that open their space to community groups
without an agenda. I do not like churches that are pushy with their beliefs,
ask for a lot of money, or discriminate against non-believers or other people
that may not fit their mold.
Guest #1: The attractions of a place of worship to me are: its pastor
(minister, priest, rabbi, etc); the teachings; the people; and the ambiance of
the place itself. There is some gut feeling or inner sense that tells you right
away whether you are in tune with the teachings of any religious community.
Guest #2: I like visually-appealing churches with Gothic architecture, big
stained-glass windows, candles burning, and a scent of incense in the air. I
like churches with food. I do not like churches that emphasize sinning and
going to hell. I do not like churches that force religion on you. I despise
churches that promote homophobia.
• Question 5: Have you attended church in the past? If so, what kind
of church? Are you regularly attending church now? If not, why not?
Please be honest and specific.
My answer: I sporadically attended an evangelical congregational church
that my father’s side of the family belonged to as a child, with my family. I do
not attend ANY church now, because of my own convictions. After careful
consideration and further education, I came to the conclusion that I am
agnostic. I feel that I do not know if there is any higher power out there, and
that it is not my place to say that I have a definite answer one way or the
other.
Guest #1: Yes, and I currently attend mass at Sacred Heart Church in
Lancaster. I consider myself a very broadminded Catholic, because I am
interested in, and tolerant of, the beliefs of others.
Guest #2: I decline to answer this question.
• Question #2: How did you feel about the overall atmosphere of the
church? Was it exclusive or inviting?
My answer: It was very inviting. I liked the informal dress code, as well as
the vestibule, which had very cheery (and informative) bulletin boards!
Guest #1: Inviting, as far as the congregation, and the music was a
tremendous asset.
Guest #2: The congregation went out of its way to make me feel welcome. It
felt very inviting.
• Question #3: What was your first impression when you saw the
building? What did you expect, and were your expectations met?
My answer: Actually, what I first noticed was the bus in the parking lot. I
thought that was very cool. I thought the building was very average-looking. I
expected a lot of singing, and possibly contemporary music, and my
expectations were definitely met in that aspect.
Guest #1: It did not resemble a traditional church, as I know it. Very different
inside, but sincerely presented.
Guest #2: The building looked like an old post office or municipal building.
Inside, the decorations were mostly deep blue and purple, colors that invoke
feelings of peace and calmness. The church was filled with uplifting images
suggesting hope. I was expecting a no-frills church where the emphasis was
on the faith, not the grandeur, which is basically what I got.
• Question #4: How would you rate your overall comfort in the church,
on a scale of one-10 (one – not comfortable at all; 10 – completely
comfortable)?
My answer: I rate my experience as a six.
Guest #1: I rate my experience as a five.
Guest #2: I rate my experience as a six.
• Question #5: What did you like about the church staff? Were they
welcoming?
My answer: Everyone was very nice, happy that we were there, and eager
to answer any questions we had.
Guest #1: Very much so – Contemporary Christian worship is somewhat
foreign to me, but this was an excellent learning experience.
Guest #2: The staff was extremely welcoming. Everyone was very kind and
glad to have us as guests.
• Music Ministry – seeing the Praise Band helped give me some ideas for
outreach to the 18-29 demographic.
• Bus – the Bus Ministry will certainly be helpful in connecting with the college
population that does not have a car.