After an uncontrolled outburst of energy and intake of alcohol at Nick’s place on Saturday, everybody was a bit exhausted going to church on Sunday (but apparently some people had to cleanse their sins). But after a long subway ride, during which almost everybody took a nap, we safely arrived at the church.
Even though the group was composed of Muslims, Jews, Christians, Agnostics, Atheists and given the lamentable state we were all in, we were pleasantly awakened by the sound of Gospel music. Compared to the sometimes solemn European service, most people were surprised by the sheer size of the modern cathedral and the number of energetic people in attendance. The music reminded Jakob of Prince and Louaay had flashbacks of R.Kelly’s hit: “I Believe I Can Fly”.
At the Allen Cathedral, going to church is much like attending a rock concert with choreographed dances, colourful choir robes, TV projections, and commercials. The group was very impressed by the talented musicians and vocalists. Even the most extreme atheists were touched by the exuberance.
There were frequent and fervent outbursts of “Amen!” and “Oh yeah!”, demonstrating active participation in the service. Attila was the only one of the group who exclaimed “Alleluia!!” when he saw LL Cool J entered the church through a side door. The congregation was encouraged to take notes from the sermon by an outline printed in the bulletin.
The European churches do not normally emphasise social ministry on the scale of the Allen Cathedral. The church facilitated a wide range of programs: school, supermarket, senior services and housing, etc. Reverend Flake also invited former convicts to participate in various church activities, including ministry to youth, as well as, sharing their stories of gang life and incarceration. This was a very controversial approach, however, Reverend Flake was convinced that this would help prevent gang recruitment in Jamaica Queens. He also placed a strong emphasis on collecting money and using it to empower the community through reinvestment.
Many of the HIA fellows invested in the community by donating blood after the service. However, some of their motives may or may not have been tainted. Jason later admitted that he partly donated to receive the free lunch. Other fellows bought-out a woman selling food from her van. Matt received a considerable discount on cake for his recruitment strategies (or for his irresistible charm).
Written by Halimatou, Naomi, Louaay and Jakob
AMEN!
