I had to vacate my house for the night due to some remodeling being done. So I checked in to a Holiday Inn. While I was out walking my dogs one the biggest mainline churches began to ring out old hymn tunes. I was a block away and it hurt my ears. I went into my room and I could still hear the bills ringing.
If the bells bothered me, what do you think they do to an unchurched person who is already turned off by churches? I know what it does- it tries a further wedge between them and Churches.
Now the problem is 50 years ago when the bells were put into this church people were appreciative of the church ringing out. It was a sign the community was in good shape and surrounded with God’s love. Well, it’s no longer 1950 and those bells are offensive to most unchurched people and for those who aren’t bothered by the chimes, I need to ask you, Is your church growing?
Just thinking out loud.
February 4th, 2013 on 10:35 pm
If church bells are considered “offensive” it is simply because of lack of familiarity. Like people who complain about the noise of an airport, people who bought houses near churches complained about the “noise,” and gradually many, but not all, churches ceased to ring theirs. I find this sad.
Church bells as we know them have been in use for some 1600 years, and before that gongs and rams horns called the faithful to worship.
I understand that “unchurched” people may find this “noise” offensive, but that is no reason that bells should not be rung.
I’m curious — would you also object to the carillon in the Peace Tower?
February 4th, 2013 on 10:46 pm
Church bells were pretty much the text messaging or Facebook invites of the medieval times. They were used for communicating to the surrounding area for church meetings, town meetings and such. I just don’t think they’re relevant anymore, whether they’re annoying to someone or not. We need a relevant church body, not one stuck in the traditions and practices of the 1700′s.
May 19th, 2013 on 9:06 pm
How could bells, so consistently flat in pitch and uncontemporary in musical choices, inspire and invite unchurched folks. I am a Christian and church pastor and they hurt MY ears!