Montreat is over.  We have arrived at Reboboth Beach.  This morning (Sunday) New York Times has an article on applause during theatrical productions.  People clap when a popular star appears on stage.  The directors and some of the stars do not like it.  It interrupts the flow of the production.

At Montreat there was ocassional applause.  The kids got applause.  The preacher got it once.  Most of the time it was worshipful respect.

On Sundays, when the kids sing in church, there is often applause.  As people leave worship many folks thank me for the opportunity to thank the kids for their performance.

Other weeks, the chancel choir will sing something moving.  People will exit worship and ask, "Why can"t we clap and thank them?"

Touchy subject.  Applause = performance rather than worship.  I like to say "amen."  Some like to thank God with clapping.  Not any easy topic.  Look at Sunday's NY Times.  Let me know what you think and look for Krista Wright's article in the next News and Views.