Skating Everywhere…Even In Church

My rump has repeatedly taken a beating since lately–and it’s not from a belt. It’s from learning how to skate. I’ll be honest, I’m good at a lot of things, it’s just that skating isn’t one of them. There is something about balance maintenance that I haven’t quite figured out as yet. But that’s me. The rest of the world is having a blast skating. Whether it is roller skates, roller blades, or a skate board. Be it at the skating rink, in the streets or on ice, gliding around with the wind in your face is majestic. It truly mimics a sense of freedom and flying. Skating is not only a form of entertainment, but it’s also a sport as well as a good cardiovascular workout. In addition, churches can get involved too. I’ll tell you how.

Gliding around on wheels or blades is the type of fun that can be enjoyed at any age. I have seen a six year old in roller skates as well as a senior citizen in his eighties. This is an activity that does not discriminate against race or religion. It can be a family affair as well a great dating experience for couples, and it makes for a great evening out with friends. If you’re a sports fan, figure skating and roller derby are two sports that you can include in your list of lineup. These are sometimes considered female sports, but men can certainly get involved. Men, watch it or take part in it; don’t be swayed by the masses. Moreover, if your regular workout routine is boring you to death, climbing atop a pair of skates or skateboard is a great way to revive your workout sessions. It’s a total body exercise, yet it does wonders for legs and thighs as well.

In another sense, skating is a cool way to lively up the church setting. Some may disagree, but give it some thought. How about renting a skating rink for an hour or two and have the youth department meet there for service then enjoy skating afterwards. What if the women’s ministry group go skating for a night out on the town, or if the children’s choir go ice skating for a day of fun. Tickets to the skating rink can also make a great prize for any department in the church. Skateboarding to the park or beach for prayer service is also an exhilarating way to get more youths on board–literally and figuratively. Anywhere can become a place of worship. “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20)

Skating is an exciting activity with the potential to build and strengthen the relationship between church members. It’ll also a fun way to shake things up a bit and step away from the traditional church settings in an effort to rekindle interest. God’s desire is not for His children being so rigid in tradition that they cannot embrace change. Just because we’ve grown up seeing things done one way doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try another way. Traditions can be broken while the message of the cross remains the same. So find creative ways to spread the gospel and build relationships, not just with each other, but with God. It’s OK to step outside the walls of the church. After all, we are the church, not the building. What are your views when it comes to incorporating skating in the church?