Religion 3

At the invitation of my neighbour, and with a mix of motivations- respect for belief, curiosity, cultural interest- I twice went to the First Assembly of God church, the second time being Easter Sunday.

Photo- internet- A mix`of formality and joyful participatory  celebration

The service began at 7am, but under Maria's direction, we left our flats early, to be in time to get "a good seat". By 7.15 am the building was full, including the overflow seating in the aisles, with about 300 people in attendance. The dress code was formal and elaborate. In the first 20 minutes while the pastor lead a question and answer session to encourage the congregation to voice their belief in God and Jesus, I had time to look around. The building is a simple concrete structure, with basically crafted wooden bench seating, fluorescent lighting strips and ceiling fans. There are more women than men in attendance. There are people of all ages there. At the front, facing the congregation, on a raised platform, is a lectern for the pastor, four musicians all linked to a sound system and four backing singers, also with microphones. At each side of the platform, suspended from the ceiling, there is a TV screen.

After the introductions, the Pastor begins to sing- soulfully-the words of the first hymn appear on the TV screens, the congregation rises and the hall is immediately filled with loud, rich singing accompanied by guitar, keyboard and percussion. The room sways in time with the music. Although I do not know the first tune, as the chorus repeats and there are many verses I can pick up the melody and sing along. I enjoy this.

After the first hymn, the singing continues- and for the next hour we work through a repertoire, singing, swaying, even dancing along, smiling at each other. For me, the atmosphere partly resembles that of a small music venue at home, where a tribute band are playing a well known back- catalogue. But in addition to the sheer pleasure in singing, individuals are declaring their faith and belief.

The next part of the service allows the choir and the church dancers to entertain and uplift the congregation. The singing- in four part harmony - is flawless. The dancers have an "interpretive" routine to a gospel recording, which involves lyrically energetic movements and lasts for some 15 minutes.

After yet more singing, the congregation the settles to listen to the pastor. Any small businesses owned by the church members are actively promoted by the pastor. The lesson begins with a summary of the sermon displayed as a power point on the TV screens. The reading of any biblical references is encouraged. Open agreement with the pastor's arguments is sought after, and given. The sermon is peppered with jokes and the congregation laughs heartily. Small children dutifully sit, or quietly play.  I take the time to review my personal thoughts.

photo- internet- Everyone joins in the singing

After three hours, the service is over and we leave, shaking hands and hugging people as we go.

I continue to respect the beliefs of others and the visits have given me a greater insight into the culture and practices which have developed in Guyana.