Top Ten Reasons for Not Going to Church (in Manila)

Last Sunday I went to church – it was not like going to church in the US. In fact, it was a real experience. I’ve compiled some reasons why I shouldn’t go back next week.

10) It took too long to get there. It was at least 45 minute drive and that was by car. Many people had to take public transportation: bus, jeepney, trike or taxi -which even takes longer. This is unacceptable.


9) The church was difficult to find. (In fact, everything is difficult to find). This church is located on the 5th story of a high rise mall. If you didn’t happen to see the sign you’d never know there was a church in the vicinity.

8) Paid parking – who wants to pay for parking?

7) It was raining (again). We were soaked by the time we got from the parking garage to the front door. (Who thinks of taking an umbrella to church in Colorado?)

6) We were frisked as we entered. (All malls have security guards searching people and belongings.) Not exactly a holy hug.

5) 5 flights of stairs! We found escalators on the way down! (a little too late).

4) We had to fight our way through a crowded video arcade, food court and department store. – It was a sea of humanity.

3) Constant “invitations” from vendors. The word accosted is too strong but I was encouraged repeatedly to buy various items for my wife &/or girl friend.

2) Arrived at the sanctuary all hot, sweaty and sticky.

1) Too crowded – there were 5 services – all of which were packed. There are over 15,000 attenders every Sunday. It was an invasion of my personal space.

In fact, after all was said and done, there was only one reason to go to church at all – because our gracious Lord and Savior is worthy of our collective worship. I guess when you weigh the pros & cons, it’s really a no-brainer. I think I will go back next week. It’s funny to think that back in the US, we will use almost any excuse for not going to church. Studies have shown that if people can’t park within 100 feet of an entrance to the church building, it’s too much of a bother to go at all. I’m convinced we could learn a little from our Filipino brothers and sisters -that attending church may involve a bit of a sacrifice but still thousands are joyfully willing to make it every week.


Larry Chell, Pastor of Christian Family Fellowship in Canon City, Colorado
Larry and his wife, Joyce have been visiting their daughter Daisy who works in the nursery at New Faith Family Children’s Home