For those who are interested - as the original websites are down I have posted here the two blogs I quoted on Sunday:

Percival Proud's Pontifications:

"When all is said and done my church is very lucky to have. I am a busy man. An important man. A learned man. A wealthy man.
The church benefits greatly - I am sure - from what money I am able to spare it amongst all my other giving and investments.
I do find the sermons somewhat lacking - especially from that young assistant straight out of college. It would be harsh - but fair - to say that what they lack in profundity they make up for in tedium. It is one of the reasons why attend only sporadically.
And the small group I am a part of - the leaders mean well - but I cannot possibly be expected to turn up on time. Why all we do is chat and catch up. How unnecessary - hearing people bleat on about their lives. While I am only there towards the end of the time together - I more than make up for it in the quality of my contribution.
By contrast the clergy in my church - do not mean well at all. From the decisions they have made - and the hurt they have caused me - I can only assume they are arrogant, petty men driven by a desire to exert what little power they have over us their poor afflicted congregation."

Hearing Harriet Humble:

"This year - when it comes to church and bible study - I want to make it my aim to get there - not simply on time - but early.
And once there - my intention is to ask the leaders - who do so much for us - "is there anything I can do to help?"
I resolve to think well of others and their motives. I will not think the worst of them - but the best. And if I cannot conceive of a way in which their decisions may be positively construed - I will simply go to them ask why certain things are happening.
I will strive to be generous. Giving of my time - serving not simply where I am praised, not merely because I enjoy it - but where there is true need. And I will seek to give of my money. More than I did last year - I will have to check what I gave to make sure I can better it. Knowing that it is not my money but the Lord's he has entrusted to me"

Enjoy
Tony

PS To quote a famous preacher: "Never let the truth get in the way of a good story"