ost Adventist college and university worship services feature the best of Adventist preaching and musical performances. That's great for students, but graduates going out to start their careers may find themselves in communities where the only Adventist church for miles doesn't even have an organ, let alone a choir. It may not even have a pastor (it may be part of a district that shares a pastor with one or two other churches). What then?
Small churches may or may not welcome new members. Established members may be threatened by advanced educational levels; they may be suspicious of theological nuances learned in university Bible classes; they may see new members as a threat to their leadership.
Other small congregations may be so eager for new talent that they'll dump every conceivable job on new members and make other unreasonable demands.
Here's how you can survive:
1. Be humble. The Lord brought you to the community for a reason. If the Lord (yes, the Lord) gives you a burden about something, do it with all your might. But don't try to single-handedly bring sophistication to a church that's probably been doing things the same way longer than you've been alive.
2. Be deliberate. Don't accept every responsibility thrust upon you. You know your gifts; accept only those tasks that suit your interests and your passions for ministry.
3. Be responsible. You may find the Sabbath services boring and old-fashioned, but you're still a member of the body of Christ in that community. Give it your moral, financial, and prayer support. In the meantime, fortify yourself with personal devotions and small group Bible studies with those who have similar interests. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading. You'll grow spiritually in spite of the boredom.
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Stephen Chavez is managing editor of the Adventist Review.
