Welcome to the Manger
Two thousand years ago a young pregnant and unwed teenage girl sought refuge with a local innkeeper. The young woman and her fiancé were refused. She was forced to give birth in the one place that did not judge her background, surrounded by local outcasts and angels. This turn of events should give us pause to reflect on what is important in our own worship experiences. Inns offer people “do not disturb” placards. Mangers are loud, chaotic and smelly. Inns seek to provide room service and other amenities for a guest's comfort. Mangers can be quite uncomfortable. Inns only accept guests who can afford their rates. Mangers welcome shepherds, pregnant teens and anyone who wants in. Inns are focused on the guest's satisfaction. Mangers focus their attention on Christ. What kind of Church do you attend? What kind of Christian am I? Am I more comfortable in an Inn pampering myself, or am I more comfortable in the Manger, where all are welcome?
Manger living is a community of inclusion and welcome particularly to those who are so often shunted aside from the corporate worship settings. There are countless individuals living in our communities that are unable to find any place in our “community church.” There are countless individuals who lives their lives separated social, economically, and spiritually from the mainstream of society. These individuals have too often encountered churches modeled after the inn (or hotel) of the Christmas story. These individuals have too often been told that there is no room for them or their families. Manger communities welcome people for here people are accepted regardless of whether they are shepherds, wisemen, unwed mothers, blue collar workers or angels.
We invite you to look around a get to know us a little better. Feel free to browse our site and to contact us at:
Manger Consulting
PO Box 952
Brea, CA 92822-0952
714-256-9022
