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I think you are right it is a good idea to celebrate the various events in the Church Calender it is a chance to get non believers to join us whether it be for a special Mothering Sunday service or a coffee and mince pie whilst listening to carols by candlelight. The main thing is as you say is it spirit lead rather than just ritual.

I am familiar with the term throwing the baby out with the bath water I have always thought of it as a very English saying. That is one thing that has surprised me since finding the FR that many of the sayings and expressions I thought were so English that Americans would find trouble in understanding I have found they are in common use in the States as well. Also I always thought American humour was very different to English but except with a few exceptions I have found it again to be very similar.

Fortunately the Evangelical movement in England as a whole has not gone to far in trying to be be relevant though unfortunately some Baptist and Methodist churches have; the independant ones though seem to still preach Christ crucified and redemption by faith rather than works. What has increased especially in the Evangelical movement has been the charismatic movement which to some evangelicals has caused great concern. Myself feel all things in moderation here. IMHO the charismatics have bought a great deal of love and fellowship but I also have some reservations in some of their extreme views though as a general rule I think the Evangelical Movement is strengthened by them.

Sorry if that was a bit heavy - must go and get tea now (mushroom quiche, salad and mashed potato).

God Bless you

Eleanor

Enjoy your tea! (That's one of the things our daughter loves most about living in England!)

Mr. OH and I are about to go out on a walk and enjoy the sunshine and (relatively) warm temperatures.

When it's been below zero (F), then 45 seems almost like summer! :o)