For Heaven's Sake
Linda Riley
July 1, 1996
The truly faithful always go to church on vacation. So, naturally,
I was watching for churches instead of redwoods or deer while on a Sunday
morning drive up the scenic coastal route through northern California. All
that was available was something dubiously resembling a church. The
weather-beaten sign in front proclaimed, Redwood Christian Center, Orick,
CA. Rev. Darrell E. Bean.
There were only three cars in the lot. As we pulled up, my daughter Autumn
said, "Mom, I don't think this is a church. There's no steeple or cross or
fancy windows." Mandy asserted, "It could still be a church." Then, looking
uncertain, "Is it a church, Mom?"
"I think so," I said, reminding them that our own church was a converted
warehouse, located behind a lovely bowling alley. "Let's be quiet when we
go in."
We opened the front doors hesitantly. The entire adult Sunday school turned
in their seats. They welcomed us heartily. Someone brought us a Bible and
a songbook. Then the girls were ushered off to Sunday school, swelling attendance
from one to three.
As the pastor taught from Hebrews on "better things," I looked around. The
pews were comfy, considering they were home-hewn from stained plywood. Up
front was an old piano and an antique heating stove. A wooden serving cart
stood there, graced by a vase of yellow garden roses. On either side were
offering jars. The Sunday school jar held coins; the missionary jar held
bills. When the teacher and children returned from Sunday school, the sanctuary
held thirteen souls.
The air smelled of ocean, plywood, and perfume. A stream of warmth filtered
in through the plain windows. The pastor's face was etched with more lines
around his mouth than his brow. I had seen the trailer ...
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