82. CHURCH ATTENDANCE PAYS DIVIDENDS

Dear Grandma Donna,

Could you tell us how being active in a church makes life better? Statistics seem to show that regular church attendance makes for better success in every area of life. Love, Savana

Dear Savana,

When we attend church, a feeling grips us that here is something that is bigger than ourselves. There is a sense of peace, and lovely music that lifts the cares of the world off our shoulders.

We can place our own needs a little lower on the list as we learn about many who are needier than ourselves, and are given opportunity to help them. Our hearts can be softened to forgive annoyances we have hung onto; we can even be cleansed of jealousy.

Perhaps the most attractive benefit is the one that says couples who attend church together report higher levels of happiness and satisfaction. “God is love,” and learning of Him in His house deepens our own love for Him and for each other.

Church is a place where you can make friends and feel a sense of belonging. Research shows that people who regularly attend church report stronger social support networks and less depression. They smoke less, and lead healthier and even longer lives. In a very real and physical way, church is literally good for your health.

I have attended church all my life and I love being there. At age nineteen, I was placed as a co-teacher of a Junior High Sunday School Class.  From that day to this, I have taught young people, sponsored youth meetings and helped with programs and music in each of the churches I have attended.

Even today, as a senior citizen, I teach the Junior High Sabbath School Class and help with music and programs in my small church. I have never been paid for my work, but I have never done any work that is more gratifying. You cannot outgive the Heavenly Father.

I challenge everybody in my reading audience—give it a try!

Love, Grandma Donna

HAYSTACKS

Wash 2 or 3 times and cook one pound of black beans according to package directions.

Wash 2 or 3 times and cook one pound of brown rice according to package directions.

Build the haystack:

1 c cooked rice

1 c cooked beans

Cover with chopped lettuce, chopped tomatoes, chopped onions, chopped olives, chopped avocados

Pour salsa on top.