Engedi Church — Attraction in Holland

(Engedi, feel free to reach out if you would like to dialogue on this issue.) My husband and I came for a service last week (November 5, 2023) for the first time. The worship was incredible, though we felt like the way the service was delivered was done in a very showy way. We understand that this is partially due to the large online following, which is awesome! However, what I was most devastated to see and hear was during the primary message that the pastor spoke on. He used an example of a modern day miracle as someone whose child was "healed" of autism, and who "prayed the autism away." I'm not going to lie, I saw red. I thought about every person in the congregation who has a family member, child, sibling, or perhaps they themselves that are autistic. I personally have ADHD, and was constantly thinking about what would happen if a pastor started telling me to pray my ADHD away. This was an absolutely devastating way to make people feel terrible about themselves, and continue to propagate the stigmatization of a disability. I am not writing this review to say that the illustration that was used did not happen, but that of all the modern-day examples of miracles that happen, this was shared in very poor taste. I wonder how many people left the church building feeling worse about themselves or their families, wondering what they may have done "wrong" for Jesus not to "heal them" of their disability or illness? If your lead pastor is not critically thinking about the impact of his words, I worry about the marginalized individuals that will serve as collateral damage in the aftermath. I left this church feeling sick to my stomach, and I hope that this kind of message does not...

I am a teen who has attended Engedi Church since middle school. It is a church that constantly strives to make room for God to do the next thing in the church, community, and the world. No church is perfect, but what I appreciate most about Engedi versus other options would be that they are willing to change to better serve God and the community. This humility and readiness to serve God makes things seem alive. However, despite semi-constant change, Engedi has remained very true to the principles of Christianity, adapting in a way that encourages spiritual growth rather than compromising integrity and truth. It is somewhat large but easy to get connected if you take initiative and join a CABLE group. Leadership is exceptional and does their best to "advance the Kingdom Revolution of Jesus worldwide". The music is undoubtedly somewhat loud but is also carefully monitored to ensure it remains well below the danger threshold. Engedi supports more missionaries than I can remember both financially and spiritually. Engedi's website is top-notch and contains more information, and the services can be streamed on various platforms.

tl;dr Engedi is a vibrant church that is culturally relevant without compromising the Christian faith. But don't take my word for it - check out the website or come...

Engedi is a fine church. Here is why it was not the church for us, after many years: As you can read from many other reviews, the music is too loud. It can be damaging. They should not have to offer earplugs. Kids ministry is more of a daycare than a Sunday school. Engedi pushes their cable groups (small groups). Yes, small groups are great, but they should also offer similar interest groups, Bible studies, get-togethers, etc. Many people seem to have a difficult time getting connected there Messages are "feel good" and quite liberal. Please, just preach directly from the Word. Not just toss a couple verses into your...