I received an invitation from Yelp to update my review, and based upon a "review" that someone wrote based upon her own opinion of people whom she doesn't know, and of whose experiences with CCC she has absolutely no knowledge of, I thought it might be a good idea.
First of all, the review I refer to is this one:
"The negative reviews with one star are from those who would be against and Church where God is taught and the Bible is inspired to man by God! I pray for all the ones who are against believing in God to be blessed by redemption, in stead of putting down the truth that one can not see!"
Now, let me present you with a few of the FACTS of why I left, as well as why I wouldn't go back.
I was new to the area and looking for a home church. Based upon my positive experience with Calvary Chapel in the last state I lived in, I thought I'd give CCC a try. First, in all fairness, let me say Darren Delaney was a sweetheart - warm, friendly, and welcoming; he tried his best to introduce me to other women in the church and have them include me in their activities. Because I love to bake, Darren gave me permission to bring in homemade baked goods for coffee time, which I did joyfully. Each week many of the men complimented me on the treats I brought in, and we often engaged in conversation. Unfortunately, apart from 2-3 ladies who were friendly, I soon learned that the church was run by a clique of women who had migrated en masse to CCC from First Presbyterian, where apparently their shenanigans were not appreciated, and they didn't like my being there one bit!
One week during services a man behind me said loudly enough for me to hear, "I don't like Yankees!" Being originally from NYC I knew that was directed at me, so I turned to him, smiled sweetly, and said, "I'm a Yankee!" I guess he thought he'd intimidate me, and in response stuttered, "I...I...I don't even know what Yankee means!" Yeah, right.
Let's go back to the clique. I really wanted to get involved in the church, and approached the pastors about starting a ladies fellowship like the one we had in my former church. Once a month those who were interested would get together for a "girl's night" which could be anything from a gathering at someone's home to going out to dinner and a movie. Once I had permission, I hosted a small party at the pool in my apartment complex, which the ladies who attended seemed to enjoy.
Oh, that riled the feathers of the clique leader! I won't name names, but let's just say she thought she was better than everyone else because her FIL was a doctor who wrote a book about a patient's NDE. She called me and made it abundantly clear that my "ministry" was neither needed nor welcome, and went on to make ridiculous, unfounded accusations - such as I was trying to steal someone's husband! Well, another Southerner learned that one doesn't mess with a NYC girl; I let her know exactly what I thought of her and her band of deluded devotees, slammed the phone down in her ear...and never returned - I don't put up with crap from anyone, including self-righteous prigs like her. When the few ladies who were friendly learned about how I was treated, they left the church as well. I don't know if the pastors were aware of what was going on or not, but in talking to other people since I left, I'm not the only one who was mistreated by that crowd and made to feel as if my presence was anathema.
I don't know if that woman and her gang are still at CCC or not, but in reading other reviews there are other things that would preclude my ever returning. First of all, a coffee time/fellowship before or after services is fine, but a restaurant in a church? Gee, I wonder if those who paid a visit to the home of Jesus' family were expected to PAY for their meal or snack? Sipping lattes during services? No, sorry (not really) - one attends church services to feed their spirit, not indulge carnal appetites. I see also that there have been sermons on tithing. In the years since I left CCC I've earned two Master's degrees - one in Christian Counseling, and one from seminary in Bible Studies, as well as having done intensive studies on my own. I can confidently and unequivocally state that tithing is NOT for the Church. It was done under the Law (which Jesus freed us from); it was about livestock and produce; not money; and it was never a straight 10%. In the Church Age giving is to be done as the Spirit leads, cheerfully, and not under compulsion (2 Cor 9:7). Do your own research!
I know no church is perfect, but I have no interest in one where members are ignorant of the Book of James, in which he warns against playing favorites and treating others like dirt. (It's SIN!) Perhaps the CCC pastors need to do a study on James, or if they don't, Billy Crone has an outstanding (albeit long!) one on YouTube that attendees of Calvary Chapel Chattanooga would do well to listen to. read more