Such a powerful post! I do believe, when we make a committment to go to a certain church, we should not be looking for a way out, but ways to stay! Every church has its problems, and, although, they may seem to be more of what you are looking for, if you change churches, you'll find they have just as many problems as your former church. You said: Everyone's contribution was valued as we moved forward together. I truly believe each of us has a place in our church. The pastor or elders, song leaders, etc, cannot do it all. It takes every part of the BODY to make a whole, and each of us have a part. If we don't see things happening in our church, perhaps our part is not working perfectly, and needs a little spiritual work.