I congratulate Allie Conti for venturing outside her comfort zone, but I am disappointed as to how little her horizons were truly broadened. While her observations as to the United Pentecostal Church may be accurate (I've never been there), expanding her generalizations to cover an entire denomination based on one visit is sloppy.
First, as a Pentecostal, I can say that we do not believe that the way to heaven is through good works, as she implies. Salvation is by faith alone - works are simply proof that we live by our convictions. You can't call yourself a vegetarian if your favorite snack is bacon.
Similarly, we practice our faith. The works are the external proof. They are not what save you.
Second, church and Christianity are not about gratification, no matter what denomination you're a part of.
Are we happy with life? Yes!
We don't like to be glum any more than anyone else. But Christianity is not about "feeling better" about the hardships in life.
Can church be like a party? Yup.
You're hanging out with people you enjoy and respect to honor a deity that you love more than life. How does that not inspire joy and sometimes downright giddiness?
The manner of presenting the truths of the Bible might change from church to church and age to age, but the underlying purpose and meaning is always the same. It's not about surviving "like a cockroach," as Conti stated.
Formality is not necessary to enjoy God. Just love and faith.
