Pensees: Shepherds Conference

Shepherds Conference

My blogging this week is going to be sparse. I’m busy. I have an article due for something else (don’t ask me why I left it to last minute. It’s a weakness of mine) and I am getting prepared for a new series of messages that I must begin preaching when I get home. Mix that in with hours of sessions and fellowship and there remains little time left.

Jeremy Scott blogged something about his first day at the Shepherds Conference. He came out with me. We didn’t attend the same workshops, but I think you will enjoy reading about his day. Also, if you want a minute by minute blog, read Challies. My wife just called me and told me that Challies was struck by the plainness of Grace Community’s facility even as I was the first time I came here.

One benefit of a plain building is that congregational singing is remarkably enhanced. The acoustics are delightful. I have been in a number of large churches that are decorated extravagantly, but the congregational singing is uninspired because every one feels like he is the only one singing. Too many churches (even fundamental churches) are designed for performance, not for a congregation.

Read Joe Fleener’s take on the music here. Tom Pryde has some good thoughs as well at his site.