With the tour on hold and no sign of the boys in the studio just yet, U2 news has slim to none. However, I came across a great church meets culture article discussing how some churches are using the music of U2 to attact young twentysomethings.
Earlier attempts by churches to connect to youth culture have usually involved ministers in open-toed sandals strumming acoustic guitars and singing Kumbaya to the general embarrassment of all. Yet, in parishes from California to Maine, worshippers are flocking to hear U2 classics such as Beautiful Day, Pride and Peace on Earth rolled into a service of prayer.
While U2 songs are not yet listed in the Episcopal Church’s authorised hymnal, Ms Blair believes it is only a matter of time. She said: “I seriously think the day will come.”
While I have taught my teens the song 40, I think that it will be a long time coming before any church breaks into The Sweetest Thing during services. Maybe Gloria? Grace?
Regardless of how you feel about the article, churches can do a better job of engaging our culture. We know what it looks like when it is done poorly. When its done right though more than just popular music can be redeemed.
We’ve actually sung Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking for at my church on a Wednesday night.
Wednesdays are not Sunday Brandon. Things like that can slide during the week.
I’m kidding. I’ve sung With or Without you at a worship confrence.